PAPER: High Speed Inking Unit 4

Overview

The unit was developed for users who are looking for ways to conduct fast inking under tightly controlled conditions. The IGT High Speed Inking Unit 4 is an ultra-fast inking unit which can be used to ink a maximum of 4 printing discs simultaneously.

The technical design of this inking unit enables the user to reduce the total inking time to 15 s. The unit is computer controlled and all settings as well as the operating instructions can be read off the display.

The operating temperature of the IGT High Speed Inking Unit 4 may be between 15 and 45°C. This is particularly important at the high distribution speed which generates heat, affecting tack and viscosity of the inks and consequently the test results. The temperature is controlled by means of an external thermostatic water bath, which can be used to either heat or cool the unit. The thermostatic water bath is part of the standard delivery.

Feature

• 3 inking sequences
• Top roller with 1, 2 or 4 sections
• Inking time adjustable for each printing disc
• Printing discs lifted automatically after inking
• Easy cleaning in cleaning mode
• Sturdy construction
• Temperature control precludes influences of high speed or ambient temperature
• Enclosed inking system for safety and to prevent misting and air draft
• Supplied with an IGT ink pipette
• On request suitable for printing discs used on older IGT testing equipment.
• Top rollers for conventional and for UV-curing inks
• CE compliant

 Operation

The IGT High Speed Inking Unit 4 consists of a top roller and two distribution rollers, which can be heated or cooled by an external temperature control bath. The top roller is produced such that it can be used to ink a maximum of 4 printing discs. The inking speed can be adjusted from 0.2 to 1.2 m/s. The ink is applied in three stages for optimum distribution time. The printing discs are brought into contact with the top roller as soon as the command is given, whereupon the computer starts to count down the preset time. Separate inking times can be set for each of the four printing discs. A feature of this unit is that the printing discs are automatically lifted from the top roller as soon as the set inking time elapses, allowing a well defined inking time for each disc in the case of critical test. The printing discs can also be lifted manually. The unit can be programmed to perform three kinds of inking sequences which allows selection of the most suitable inking sequence or optimum inking time.

Temperature

The temperature is controlled by means of a thermostatic water bath, which can either heat or cool the unit. The two distribution rollers are kept at the required temperature and the top roller adapts the same temperature after some time. Accurate temperature control is important for pick tests and when studying the properties of inks at different temperatures (e.g. inks for dry offset printing). The accuracy of the temperature control facility is also required in standardized laboratory work. The actual temperature of the rollers can be read on the display.

Cleaning

The program contains a separate mode for cleaning. This mode ensures that cleaning is fast and safe, the top roller can be lifted automatically to facilitate the cleaning process. A transparent cover is there to prevent contamination of the surrounding and to prevent any undesired air flow around the roller system.

 Specifications