Troubleshooting I Ink Build-up on Coating Plate
The challenge of ink build-up on the coating plate
Ink build-up is a phenomenon that especially appears while using two-roller systems. It develops where printing inks penetrate the coating layer and build up on the rubber blanket or the coating plate. The consequence: The coating application is disturbed. The printing press needs to be stopped and the ink must be removed by means of washing. The result: machine stops and loss of time. In order to prevent ink build-up it is necessary to know the reasons why it may occur.
Solving ink build-up on the coating plate
Step by Step
1. Increase your coating application
If the coating layer is too thin, printing inks can penetrate the coating. Reasons may be a coating application or a coating viscosity which are too low. Viscosity should not be below 30 seconds (DIN 4mm cup).
2. Check your water/ink balance
If too much fountain solution emulsifies into the printing ink, drying is slowed down. The coating can be absorbed, ink build-up is the consequence. Check your fountain solution and adjust it if necessary. Also a pH-value which is too high or a wetting agent add-on which is not suitable for the ink can lead to ink build-up.
3. Reduce your pressure
Too high pressure between counter pressure and impression cylinder or fixed rubber blanket may result in ink build-up. Reduce the pressure in order to prevent that inks are squeezed out at the sides and build up. We recommend the application of a coating blanket. Do not use a rubber blanket out of the ink duct.
4. Choose alternative consumables
If substrate or printing inks are characterized by an insufficient penetration behaviour, the ink can remain on the sheet and build up through the coating layer. Check your consumables and choose – if possible – alternatives with sufficient penetration behavior.
Your checklist
Influence factor: Coating application
Measure: Increase amount, check viscosity
Influence factor: Fountain solution
Measure: Use less fountain solution
Influence factor: Printing press
Measure: Reduce pressure
Influence factor: Substrate
Measure: Apply a substrate with a faster penetration behavior
Still have open questions? Contact us and we will support you with the application.
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