METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ATTACHING A PRINTING PLATE TO A PRINTING CYLINDER

A method for attaching a printing plate (12), especially a flexographic printing plate, to a printing cylinder (14) is described. In a first step, the printing plate (12) is provided in a substantially flat condition. Thereafter, an outer circumference of the printing cylinder (14) is arranged adjacent to an edge of the printing plate (12). Subsequently, the printing cylinder (14) is translatorily moved over the printing plate (12) while rotating such that the printing plate (12) is rolled-up on the printing cylinder (14). Additionally, an apparatus for attaching a printing plate (12) to a printing cylinder (14) is presented. The apparatus (10) comprises a printing plate support unit (16) having a substantially flat support surface (18) for supporting the printing plate (12) to be mounted on the printing cylinder (14), and a printing cylinder support unit (36) for supporting and moving the printing cylinder (14). The printing cylinder support unit (36) comprises a translatory drive means (42) for translatorily moving the printing cylinder (14) in a direction parallel to the support surface (18).