Dirty Print – Feathering

Problem:

Excessive plate impression.

Solution:

Reduce plate to substrate impression.

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Problem:

Printing plate too hard.

Solution:

Use plates with a softer durometer.

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Problem:

Anilox to plate pressure is excessive.

Solution:

Adjust to reduce anilox impression. Check plate level.

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Problem:

Plates are not level, worn, cupped, glazed or mismatched.

Solution:

Level, build up, clean or replace entire mount.

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Problem:

Ink film is too thick.

Solution:

Reduce ink film thickness by lowering viscosity, increasing ink metering effectiveness or by decreasing anilox volume.

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Problem:

Ink is drying too fast.

Solution:

Add glycol to slow drying or increase machine speed.

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Problem:

Ink pH is too low.

Solution:

Check and adjust pH.

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Problem:

Paper dust collects in ink or sticks to plate.

Solution:

Clean press, plates and environment. Ensure clean sharp slitting and sheeting.