PRESS:
Try "impression only"

October 2008

multipage

Q: We have a Printmaster QM 46-2, and we’re running two-color letterhead on 70# Finch Fine Text. The copy is washing out like there’s too much water. We can get it to print half decent but have to run the press at 5,000 iph. If we switch the paper to almost anything else, including glossy, the problem goes away. The pressman says the water roller pressure is as tight as it goes. Do you have any suggestions?

A: This sounds like a problem of chemical contamination in the paper. As a test, try this:

o  Run approximately 100 sheets of the paper through the press on impression only (no ink or water).

o Wash your blanket and plate (if there was one on the press).

o Run the same sheets through the press normally to see if the results change.

I think you will see an improvement. Running the paper through on impression only will help remove whatever it is on the sheet surface causing the problem.

Note: this tip comes from the “Ask The Experts” Section of Printers Advantage, an online resource from Heidelberg. For more, please visit www.printersadvantage.com

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