Common Issues in Printing Factories During Summer

This summer, many regions have been affected by unprecedented heat waves. Under such conditions, printing factories are likely to encounter several issues. Identifying these problems is crucial for finding appropriate solutions.

1. Dirty Printing Plates

• High Temperatures: In summer, the temperature is higher, so the water control levels should be increased compared to other seasons. It is important to increase the pressure on the water rollers and the water supply to avoid dirty plates.
• Temperature Control: The printing environment’s temperature should be kept between 10-28°C, with the ideal range being 15-25°C. It is essential not to exceed 28°C. If possible, printing should be done in air-conditioned rooms to maintain optimal temperatures. If that’s not feasible, the machines should at least be moved to a shaded area.
• Humidity Control: Humidity levels are inversely proportional to water control. As humidity increases, water supply should be reduced. In general, the optimal humidity level for an offset printing machine is between 50%-85% relative humidity.

2. Ink Emulsification

• Thinned Ink: High temperatures in summer can cause ink to become thin. In this case, 0-grade thickening oil should be added to the ink to make it thicker. Additionally, water control should be increased to compensate for the thinning ink.
• Cooling Ink: Some operators may refrigerate ink to thicken it temporarily by lowering its temperature. However, during the printing process, the ink’s temperature will naturally rise, so this method is only effective in the short term.
• Choosing Summer Ink: It is advisable to use ink that has a lower oil content and is designed for summer conditions. If the ink becomes too thin, a small amount of drying oil can be added. When controlling water levels, factors such as ink viscosity, temperature, and humidity should be considered to achieve the best printing results.

3. Overheating Electromagnets and Inadequate Plate Pressure

• Overheating Electromagnets: During summer, electromagnets may overheat due to:
  • High Ambient Temperature: The effectiveness of heat dissipation depends on the temperature difference between the electromagnet and its surroundings. Smaller temperature differences result in less efficient cooling.
  • Low Voltage: Printing machines typically require a stable power supply of 220V/50Hz. In summer, the heavy use of electrical appliances can lower the voltage, increasing the load on the electromagnet and causing it to overheat.
  • High Tension in the Return Spring: Excessive tension in the electromagnet’s return spring can also cause overheating. To address these issues, it is recommended to use a continuous-type voltage stabilizer (rather than a standard household one) to ensure smooth operation and prolong the machine’s lifespan.

By addressing these issues, printing factories can maintain higher quality and operational efficiency, even during the heat of summer.