Roland R014: Roland Roland Offset Printing Machine Error...

Symptoms

The ink viscosity is outside the specified range. The printed color is inconsistent, and the drying time is either too slow (high viscosity) or too fast (low viscosity).

Possible Causes

Ink temperature changed significantly from the setpoint due to ambient temperature variation
Solvent evaporation from the ink fountain increasing viscosity over time
Ink pump filter clogged, reducing flow and causing inconsistent delivery
Viscometer sensor drift providing incorrect feedback to the solvent addition system

Troubleshooting Steps

Step 1: Measure the ink viscosity with a calibrated efflux cup and compare to the specification
For most offset inks, viscosity should be 20-25 seconds (Zahn #3 cup at 25C)
Step 2: Check the ink temperature in the fountain and compare to the setpoint
Adjust the fountain cooling if temperature is outside 25+/-2C
Step 3: Inspect the ink pump filter and clean or replace if clogged
Monitor the pump pressure gauge for flow restriction
Step 4: If the viscometer is suspect, compare its reading to the manual efflux cup reading
Recalibrate or replace the viscometer if readings differ by more than 10%

How to Reset

Reset: After viscosity is corrected, verify color consistency on a test print.

Common Replacement Parts

Ink viscometer: Rotational or falling-ball type (Match to ink solvent system)
Ink pump filter: Mesh, 80-120 micron (Replace when clogged)
Efflux cup: Zahn #3 or Ford #4 (For manual viscosity verification)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I measure ink viscosity?
Use a Zahn or Ford efflux cup. Dip the cup in the ink, lift it, and time the efflux until the first break in the stream. Compare to the specification.
Q: What is the correct ink temperature?
Typically 25C +/-2C. Temperature affects viscosity: higher temperature reduces viscosity. Maintain fountain temperature control.
Q: How often should I check viscosity?
Every 2-4 hours during production. Automatic viscometers check continuously, but manual verification is recommended periodically.

Roland Roland Offset Printing Machine Error Code R014