Setting New Standards in Fountain Solution and Press Cooling Technology

5/1/2004

May 1st, 2004

Baldwin Technology Company Inc. is the leading supplier of reliable and automated systems for the premixing, circulation, cooling and controlling of offset fountain solutions. Precise ultrasound measurement checks the concentration of 2-propanol in the fountain solution. At drupa 2004, Baldwin is launching new fountain solution, cooling technology and fluid management products and systems that will set new standards for pressroom productivity and environmental efficiency.

BasicLiner: Fountain Solution Unit
BasicLiner™, HighLiner™ and DailyLiner™ fountain solution systems handle the pre-mixing, circulation, cooling and control of the fountain solution in a single system. The series is suitable for both new installations and retro-fitting to existing offset presses. A range of capacity, cooling performance and equipment variants enables these systems to be adapted to every conceivable production landscape whatever the volume. The reservoirs range in capacity between 30 and 300 litres depending upon the type of system.

A control and circulation system combines all the central fountain solution components in a single cycle. One pump constantly circulates the fountain solution backwards and forwards between the fountain pan and the pre-mix unit. An easily exchangeable Full-Flow-Filter or filter mats prevent the formation of foam in the returning fountain solution and effectively filter out contaminants that have been picked up. The temperature of the fountain solution and cooling water is thermostatically controlled in all units or as an option can be digitally controlled and displayed.

A range of optional extras can turn the BasicLiner™ into a complete system for the fully automatic pre-mixing, circulation and cooling of fountain solution. Besides the reliability that results from a consistent use of standardized fountain solution, these enhancements deliver additional efficiency benefits. The precise initial and ongoing metering of 2-propanol in the fountain solution is handled by the IpaSonic ultrasound measurement unit. As a result, only the quantity of alcohol that is absolutely necessary is added during the ongoing printing process. The Automix (AME) unit can be fitted either externally or integrated and it automatically and reproducibly mixes the fountain solution in accordance with specifications, using a float valve to automatically add the right amount of fountain additive to the water.

Added Benefits:Multi-Functional Cooling by the CombiLiner™
The CombiLiner™ models feature Baldwin’s patented Combi cooling function as well. Simple operation, an integrated cooling system, ease of servicing and low maintenance requirements were a high priority during the design. Central circulation ensures an excellent price-performance ratio and especially economical operation. The multi-functional unit offers a range of different cooling capacities and is housed in a modern upright cabinet.

Besides fountain solution cooling and mixing these models also provide the cooling water for controlling the temperature of the ink units in wet and waterless offset printing. For this, the CombiLiner™ is able to switch between two different modes. Before the start of production, the ink unit is heated to a pre-set temperature so that the ink is at the right viscosity. After printing has started, the CombiLiner™ switches to cooling and keeps the cooling water for the ink vibrators at a constant temperature throughout the printing process. The device reacts precisely and accurately to the heat balance of the press and the temperature is adjusted in direct relation to the different functions. The temperature load is balanced between the damping and ink units and excess heat is dissipated through condensers in the exhaust ducts.

Introducing the Digital Double-Doser, for alcohol-free printing
Baldwin’s commitment to environmentally efficient printing will be demonstrated at drupa 2004 with the introduction of the Digital Double-Doser system. The Double-Doser allows the independent use of an alcohol substitute and fountain solution to enable efficient alcohol-free printing, which is a growing trend in all print markets. The Digital Double-Doser is compatible with all Baldwin fountain solution mixing, circulation, and cooling systems – BasicLiner™, CombiLiner™, DailyLiner™ and HighLiner™.

BasicTemp™
The new BasicTemp™ ink unit temperature control device extends the capabilities of the BasicLiner to ink temperature control. Already established in the market for some time, the unit offers precise temperature control and is easy to operate.

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