Non-ferrous/ferromagnetic laminated graphic arts impression dies and method of producing same

Abstract

This invention relates to a relatively thin cladded graphic arts impression graphic arts impression die plate (20) having a steel layer (22) which is integral throughout the extent thereof with a layer of copper (24) or bronze. A relieved design-defining surface may be formed in the copper or bronze layer by a chemical etching process or by chemical milling. The graphic arts impression die plate may be mounted on a magnetic support member (28) to present an assembly which increases the thickness of the die assembly sufficiently to permit use thereof on standard stamping and embossing equipment without modification of the die-supporting chase. The magnetic support member (28) has a plurality of pairs of permanent magnets (33, 35) each pair of which is embedded within a respective cavity (32) and that are magnetically bridged by a steel plate 36. The pairs of magnets (33 and 35) attract the steel layer (22) of the graphic arts impression die plate (20) and thereby hold the graphic arts impression die plate on the magnetic support member (28).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.