Applicable Systems
Roland Offset Printing Machine
Symptoms
The Roland printing press displays error R012, indicating ink/water balance disturbance. The emulsion between ink and dampening solution is unstable, causing scumming or tinting.
Possible Causes
- Dampening solution pH or conductivity drifted out of range
- Ink emulsification too high due to excessive fountain solution in the ink
- Temperature difference between ink and water rollers is too large
Troubleshooting Steps
- Step 1: Test the dampening solution pH and conductivity with calibrated meters
pH is between 4.8 and 5.5 and conductivity is within 800-1200 uS/cm - Step 2: Check the ink tack and water pickup with a laboratory test
Ink shows normal tack and the water pickup is below 25 percent - Step 3: Measure the temperature of the ink and water roller trains
Both roller trains are within 2 degrees Celsius of each other
How to Reset
To reset: 1) Adjust dampening solution chemistry to specification. 2) Replace the ink if it has over-emulsified. 3) Allow roller temperatures to equalize. 4) Press RESET and resume printing.
Source: Roland Offset Printing Machine Manual, Roland DG Corporation
Category: Printing