Method for continuously masking a web

A method for continuously masking a web, comprising the steps of:

• (a) providing a web of a conductive material having opposed major surfaces providing a first width and a length substantially longer than the first width of the web;
• (b) providing a continuous masking apparatus comprising a plate roller having at least one proud area corresponding to an ink stripe to be coated on one of the major surfaces of the web;
• an ink source for transferring ink to the plate roller;
• an opposing roller disposed adjacent to the other major surface of the web opposite the plate roller for ensuring contact of the web with the plate roller;
• a radiation source for curing the ink on the web;
• and a motive means for moving the web through the continuous masking apparatus;
• and
• (c) actuating the motive means to move the web off of a spool to contact the plate roller and the opposing roller and to travel past the radiation source, wherein as the web moves past the plate roller, at least one stripe of ink is deposited on the web and the ink stripe is cured as the web moves past the radiation source, and including smearing the ink from the plate roller to the web along the length thereof.