Thermal transients on a web offset press

The variation of temperatures within a web offset press affects the printing process. Manufacturers include cooling systems in an attempt to minimise these variations. As part of a trial with a Komori UK, the temperatures of the components of the inking train were measured simultaneously using thermal imaging. The results show the build up of thermal energy during the printing run and the effect of different temperature control regimes. The heat transfer affected by the flow of ink and fount solution through the press was found to be highly significant. These tests highlighted the dissipation of heat from within the rolls once the press has stopped. In order to minimise transient effects, there is a need to match the generation of heat within the rollers and the thermal capacity of the press to the cooling system. The potential to obtain thermal stability on start up has been demonstrated.