Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for treating and a process for positioning a cylindrically-shaped element. The apparatus includes means for supporting the element adapted to contact a first part of an interior surface of the element, the supporting means having an axial length; and means for moving the element along the axial length of the supporting means.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and process for forming a printing form from a photosensitive element having an exterior surface and a composition layer capable of being partially liquefied. The apparatus includes a displaceable heater for heating the composition layer, means for removing at least a portion of the composition layer from the element, and means for displacing the displaceable heater to a predetermined distance from the exterior surface. Positioning the displaceable heater at the predetermined distance assures reproducible removal of the liquefied composition from the various types of photosensitive elements that can be thermally treated in the apparatus, resulting in the printing forms having improved relief surface uniformity.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and process for treating a cylindrically-shaped element that includes means for supporting the element by contacting an interior surface of the element, means for providing a treatment medium adjacent an exterior surface of the element opposite the interior surface, and clamping means for biasing the supporting means to a preset position at one end thereof and adapted to open and close around the supporting means, or, clamping means for biasing the providing means to a preset position at one end thereof and adapted to open and close around the supporting means.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and process for forming a printing form from a photosensitive element having an exterior surface and a composition layer capable of being partially liquefied. The apparatus includes a displaceable heater for heating the composition layer, means for removing at least a portion of the composition layer from the element, and means for displacing the displaceable heater to a predetermined distance from the exterior surface. Positioning the displaceable heater at the predetermined distance assures reproducible removal of the liquefied composition from the various types of photosensitive elements that can be thermally treated in the apparatus, resulting in the printing forms having improved relief surface uniformity.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for treating and a process for positioning a cylindrically-shaped element. The apparatus includes means for supporting the element adapted to contact a first part of an interior lo surface of the element, the supporting means having an axial length; and means for moving the element along the axial length of the supporting means.