Can printing plates be reused?

Yes. Printing plates can generally be reused many times. It's not uncommon for plates to last for ten years or longer, and through millions of impressions. 

If the time between orders using a set of plates is longer than about 4 years, we archive the plates. After ten years past the last order date, plates are disposed of. 

We recommend ordering plates through us, although we can usually use plates made elsewhere. There are lots of advantages to order plates through us, as explained in our post about providing your own plates. Flexographic printing plates can get expensive, but will usually last for years. Eventually, plates will begin to develop cracks. If the plate was purchased through American Plastic, the replacement plate will be made at no charge.