Ichiro Okamoto

Title: Ichiro Okamoto: Innovator in Aluminum Alloy Technology

Introduction

Ichiro Okamoto is a notable inventor based in Ihara-gun, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the development of aluminum alloys for lithographic printing plates. His innovative approach has led to advancements that enhance the efficiency and quality of printing processes.

Latest Patents

Ichiro Okamoto holds a patent for an "Aluminum alloy support for lithographic printing plate and process for producing substrate for support." This invention provides a support for a lithographic printing plate that is prepared by cold rolling a sheet while omitting intermediate annealing. This method saves energy and reduces the number of cold rolling steps, simplifying the production process while achieving the desired strength of the sheet. The invention also inhibits the precipitation of Si particles in the substrate, resulting in excellent resistance to ink staining in non-image areas during printing. The production process involves homogenization heat-treating an aluminum alloy slab with specific compositions, followed by hot rolling and cold rolling without intermediate annealing.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Ichiro Okamoto has focused on improving the properties of aluminum alloys used in printing applications. His work has led to the production of aluminum alloy substrates with a low content of precipitated Si and a tensile strength ranging from 145 to 180 MPa. This innovation has significant implications for the printing industry, enhancing the quality and durability of printed materials.

Collaborations

Ichiro Okamoto has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Hirokazu Sawada and Hirokazu Sakaki. Their combined expertise has contributed to the advancement of aluminum alloy technologies and their applications in various industries.

Conclusion

Ichiro Okamoto's contributions to aluminum alloy technology have paved the way for more efficient and effective lithographic printing processes. His innovative patent reflects a commitment to enhancing material properties and production methods.