Fountain solution condition
Check condition of fountain solution. If dirty and old, replenish with fresh at recommended dosages and correct temperature
Roller durometer or roller settings are out of specification
Check roller durometers and settings according to press manufacture’s recommendations
Too much pressure exists between plate and blanket
Check and correct if necessary
Temp of roller train and water pan
Form rollers should be close to 75°F (23°C) and water pan 65°F (18°C)
Improperly over packed cylinders – too much squeeze
Correct packing and re-torque blanket to press manufacturer’s specifications
Ink or dampener rollers are set too tight
Check and reset rollers to press manufacturer’s specifications
Blanket is glazed
Remove glaze or change blanket
Fountain solution is out of balance
Drain pans and tanks. Refill with fresh fountain solution at correct pH, conductivity, and Brix level
Prolonged use of oily wash-up solution
Change to fresh wash-up solution
Roller train temperature is too hot
Maintain forms at 72°-80°F (22°-26°C) surface temperature
Fountain solution is too hot in pans
Maintain fountain solution temperature in press pans at 65°F (18°C)
Ink roller durometers are either too soft or too hard
Check durometer, setting, and condition of ink rollers