Have you got a question for Heidelberg? It could be about anything from equipment to techniques to financing. Send us your questions, and we’ll forward them on to our in-house experts. If your question is used, the reply will be posted here and made available to all Printers Advantage members. So, ask your question today.

Q:	NEW! We are experience an UV detaching pattern, and we couldn’t find the reason. We were trying with different inks, varnish, primers and uv’s even with another paper stock but nothing happens. It seems to be some humidity trapped between the paper and the ink. This trouble appears just when the product is on its final destination transit for more than 3 days, and with products with non cardboard covers.
A:	The Expert suggests that you test the substrate using a dyne pen. You can purchase these off the internet from many suppliers. A surface tension of 38 to 40 Dynes/cm is needed for good adhesion. For anything below this value it is impossible to guarantee good adhesion. Consider returning the substrate back to supplier.
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Q:	NEW! I am running a Prosetter 52, Signa Station and a Printmaster 52. Here are the specifics: In the Signa Station software there is a place for the gripper number to be put in. Then there is a second number put in for the "baseline". Here are the questions: Is the baseline the distance from the edge of the plate to where the leading edge of the paper hits the plate? If not then what is it? What is the baseline setting for the Printmaster 52? Is that constant? What would that be called in the manual as I do not see a baseline setting in the PM52 book?
A:	In a Heidelberg workflow there are 2 values that are used to determine what the baseline is. The press manual lists the values under "Print-related specifications" and the 2 values are: - Distance between front edge plate and print start - Gripper bite or Paper Bite To determine baseline simply subtract the Gripper Bite from the print start. PM 52 specs are: Start of print = 58mm Gripper = 8...10mm (variable...use mean value) 58mm    Start of print -9mm    Gripper ----- 49mm    Baseline
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Q:	NEW! We have been using Varn Pronto for the Blanket cleaner on our QM-46-2. Lately, we have been having trouble with this being shipped to us without excessive costs. Is there another product that can be used?
A:	There are shipping requirements for solutions with lower flashpoint washes. At Heidelberg Consumables, we sell only fogra approved washes. The flash point is over 142F and does not require a red shipping label. Plus, by using a fogra approved wash on the Heidelberg QM 46, you meet all of the factory recommended requirements for a blanket wash.
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Q:	My QM 46 is only allowing the center form to drop. Is there an adjustment I missed? The adjustment screws are not moving fully against the stops. I'm effectively printing with 1 form. This does not work with heavy black coverage.
A:	If the ink form adjustments are not moving properly, we suggest removing the rollers and cleaning them. Please refer to the attachments for easy reference.   Ink_Roller_Settings_PM46.pdf
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Q:	Hello, I hope you could clear my doubt, (does there) exist any "chemical free plate" for the Prosetter (violet photopolymer - silver halide). One seller told me that I could use some upgrade in the Raptor (plate procesor for photopolymer) to use this kind of plate.
A:	Heidelberg provided live demonstrations on the new Saphira Violet Chemfree plate at the recent drupa tradeshow. The plates ran through a new compact cleanout unit that did not have developer or water sections since they are not needed. This cleanout unit takes up less space and uses less energy as compared to a traditional processor. The schedule to release the new plate and cleanout unit is Q1 - 2009. As for converting your existing processor, we do not yet know if this will be possible. Please consult your local Heidelberg organization when you’re ready to convert and they can give you the latest status on this.
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Q:	What is the correct way to set the intermediate roller on the SM-74? When I use the method described in the operator’s manual the dampener does not wash up.
A:	You need to make sure the Intermediate roller is set properly to the #1 ink form. Checking the ink stripe (3mm) of the intermediate roller to the #1 ink form roller: 1) Make sure that that integration of the dampener is selected on at the console. 2) Ensure that the ink form rollers and the water form are in contact to the plate . 3) The gap of the plate cylinder should face out away from the rollers. 4) Inch the press backwards to see the contact stripe between the rollers. 5) The adjustment is the spring rod with the 13 mm nut. Make the adjustment and try again. 6) If the #1 ink form roller has shrunk too far you will need to replace it. 7) Make sure that all pneumatic pistons are working properly.
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Q:	I am having a problem with our IR dryer on the PM46-2. The press was installed in January of this year, but with a move of our business in the near future, we did not run power for the IR dryer. We are now in our new location and have the IR dryer powered up. The problem is, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. The press goes on impression and the IR dryer doesn't fire. The temp is set for 97.5, and the read out for actual temp is low (70's to 80's). It will be working just fine and then next time I start up - nothing. One odd behavior during its malfunction is that it will fire for a second or two (like when you first turn the unit on for operation) when coming OFF impression at the end of the run, or interruption with the production button. Any ideas?
A:	A common cause for the IR lamps to shut off unexpectedly is a mal-adjustment of the Baumer Jam detect sensor. Please refer to the sensor adjustment procedures for proper adjustment. NOTE: If you are repeatedly having to re-adjust the sensor, try turning the sensitivity screw counter clockwise a little more AS THE LAST STEP. A sensor adjusted too close to the edge of the yellow light going on and off could be troublesome, as the tolerance on components in the sensor may relax a little over time. Please refer to the attachments for easy reference.   quickdry_troubleshooting.pdf   sensor_adjustment_procedures.pdf
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Q:	I have a QM DI-46 and some of my ink keys are out of adjustment. When I zero out a tray some of the keys do not close fully, and some do not open evenly when I set the keys. How can I adjust this problem?
A:	Remove the cover that surrounds the ink key levers by removing the two 2.5mm Allen head bolts located under the ink fountain. You will see the adjustment Allen head bolts (4mm) next to each ink zone lever. With ink in the fountain and all of the levers in the same position you can adjust the keys.
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Q:	Our QM46-2 Is having a few problems, just thought you might be able to help us out. When running a job and using PU2 we find a strip of 'catch up' running the length of the sheet near the operator side. I have included a photo with this so you can see what i'm talking about. It appears in intervals of 500 sheets, when I use the blanket wash it's gone then 500 sheets later it will re-appear. The dampeners are as close to off as possible, we have increased them but that just floods the plate etc.
A:	The first thing that I would have you try is to adjust all of the form rollers and pay close attention to the dampening form roller. If the settings are okay, it may be time to look into replacing rollers.
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Q:	I'm having a problem with my QM 46 not getting much spray powder. I have cleaned the lines, checked all connections and the solenoid is working. How much air should I get from the Gast pump? It is 3 1/2 years old; what is life of this pump?
A:	The pump does not usually fail; most of the time if you notice loss of spray powder control there is a clog somewhere in the system. The sprayers in the powder housing sometimes can block the powder from spraying properly, or the manifold could be clogged. There is a quick disconnect on the black powder line. I would recommend disconnecting the powder line there and test the system with special function 04 using the plus and minus buttons. If the spray comes out ok then the manifold is ok and a clog is further down the line. If the spray is weak then the manifold needs to be cleaned or possibly replaced. The only thing on the pump that should be checked is that the paper filter is not clogged, restricting the airflow. For detailed information on the pump itself I would recommend contacting Airtech; their number is located on the side of the powder system. They will require the model and serial number which is also located on the side of the powder unit. If you are not comfortable with these suggestions, please contact Heidelberg support.
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Q:	We have a QM DI 46 Classic and are having a problem with a quarter inch roller stripe showing up on the black image. We have adjusted all the rollers and can't see anything wrong. What is causing this problem?
A:	The mark could be due to a variety of causes, such as: the roller hangers may be worn, or cylinder bearing wear issues, or bearer pressure adjustment issues. I suggest first that (in this exact sequence) you remove the 2nd 3rd & 4th transfer rollers; then adjust forms (2/1/3) to distributors. Then adjust forms (2/1/3) to the plate, then install the 2nd 3rd &4th transfer rollers and adjust them with the forms dropped on the plate. Now re-check the forms to the plate and if you notice that the forms adjustment to the plate have changed (and usually the 2nd form will be the most noticeable) this would indicate that the roller hangers are in need of repair.
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Q:	I have a Speedmaster SM 74 with IR dryer. What temperature is recommended? Also would it be different for QM 46? We use a 22 micron spray powder.
A:	Try starting at a point between 90 and 105 degrees depending on how thick the paper is. There are several variables but that is a good starting point. It is the same with QM 46.
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Q:	I am dealing with sheet mis-registration and I believe it is caused by static. I spoke with a tech the other day and he recommended using Bounce on the feed board. Is this the best option? Where should I place the Bounce strips on the feed board?
A:	Depending on the press you have, you can tape fabric softener sheets to the feed board tail edge only. The printed sheets will then pass over the softener sheets, releasing the antistatic properties. However, you must be careful it does not cause mis-registration. The sheet should be fixed as far from the head stops as possible.
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Q:	We have a Printmaster 52 2 colors and also a SM 52 two colors, we are looking for a CTP system, but want to know the advantages between the Quicksetter 400 and the Prosetter 52.
A:	The Quicksetter 400E is a CtP designed for the GTO 52 format. The PM 52 and SM 52 are larger plates sizes. The Prosetter P52 is a perfect fit for the PM 52 and SM 52. The Quicksetter is a polyester plate CtP device that is rated up to 175 line with run lengths of up to 20,000, whereas the Prosetter P52 is a very high quality, metal plate CtP rated up to 300 lines per inch, Hybrid and FM screening-capable and up to 350,000 run lengths. The Prosetter P52 can have internal punches, is the only violet CtP with Temperature Compensation, can be upgrade to various levels of automation and even to a larger 4 up format, the Prosetter P74.
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Q:	In our efforts to go green, we have started using Ecolo-Clean 35 on our PM-46's and would like to try it on our PM-74-4, but I am wondering if the heavier viscosity of the solvent will be a problem for the autowash or blanket wash systems?
A:	You may have to change the wash up programs for rollers and blankets. The new BIO washes evaporate much more slowly than conventional washes. However, with a little experimentation they will work fine. For the first round of trials, try these settings: Blankets H2O Wash H20 Wash H20 11 19 13 9 11 20% 30% 10% 10% 10% Rollers Wash H20       4 45 300 275 45 40% 50%       Impression Cylinders H20 Wash Water     22 22 22 22 22 70% 40% 50% 10% 30%
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Q:	When running my QM 46-1 the water bottle locks up and the water pan goes dry. What is causing this annoying problem?
A:	The reason for your problem is most likely that the valve does not open up completely and does not allow the water to flow correctly. We would recommend a new water bottle cap; they can wear out after a while.
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Q:	On a 1996 Polar 66 trimmer. Recently I have been getting a "Knife at BDC, time interrupted" message on every cut. Through the years I have noticed that the knob for knife changing has lost some resistance. As a result it would eventually drift from the far clockwise position and I would get the same message as above, turn the knob back and it was fine. Now it's constant. Is something worn in this valve? Hydraulic fluids are full with no leaks.
A:	The message “484 Knife at BDC Time interrupted” means that the knife was released to move to the up position before the bottom dead center switch was met. This can happen from releasing the cut buttons too soon as well as having the knife go too deep into the cut stick. It should have nothing to do with the valve for knife change. The valve for knife change will keep the knife from TDC or top dead center. Please contact our technical help desk at 800.437.7388 if you should have additional questions.
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Q:	I have an SM 52 A3 four colour machine and a GTO Z two colour and a GTO one colour machine. Is there a UV coating component or accessories that can be added to any of these machines to do UV printing?
A:	All presses that are used for UV printing have to be factory prepared (in printing units, coating units and delivery) to withstand the more aggressive press chemistry that usually goes along with the UV printing process. The UV preparation can only be done practically in the factory when you order the press – it includes UV rollers, UV conform grippers, special prep for wash-up devices etc. If your presses are not factory UV prepared they are not approved for inline UV printing. Both the Printmaster GTO 52 and the Speedmaster SM 52 presses can be UV prepared - and then be used for inline UV printing. However, a Heidelberg coating unit for UV is only available for the SM 52. Curing solutions for the UV dryers are available 3rd party manufacturers.
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Q:	I am having trouble with ink "piling" on the water metering rollers on a GTO-5 with DDS dampening, is this an ink/fountain solution issue or a roller adjustment?
A:	Ink piling is normally an ink/dampening solution issue, where the ink is not able to withstand the strength of the fountain solution, either due to the mixture ratio or the type of solution altogether. If it is the same solution you run normally, you most likely have a contamination issue that can be taken care of by washing the press with HOT WATER AND WHITE VINEGAR, (do not use a chemical deglaze or the like, as it is very hard on the rollers). The hot water will chase out the water based contaminates and the vinegar will chase the mineral deposits out of the rollers. It may be necessary to do this several times to get the problem to go away, and it should be done on a weekly basis afterwards to prevent further contamination problems.
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Q:	I am running an old MO-4VP at a university in house. At this time of year like everyone we fight with fan out on any size sheet of text and offset. The question I have is if there is anything other than sealing every nook and cranny in the building to prevent this? They use two dedicated a/c, heating and humidifying/dehumidifying units, but they seem to do little to help this problem. Any advice would be welcome.
A:	Yes, paper conditioning is the issue, but some additional questions are relevant: how old is the paper, when was it delivered, was it cut down at the correct grain If the paper was cut and not covered with plastic to keep in the moisture it will shrink and then stretch when printed, and unit 1&2 may not fit. If the print jobs are not covered after printing and the backup does not fit it may be due to running the dryer too high causing the sheet to shrink after drying. In any case, the paper should always be covered this time of year to prevent dehydration. The paper companies will normally provide plastic load covers to help prevent this between passes, especially if it is overnight between passes.
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Q:	We have just recently purchased a Heidelberg Quicksetter and need to know how to send spot colors {2/C} to the Quicksetter. We are set up from installation to send 4/color, 1/color, and positives for silkscreen. Jobs we are trying to send as spot color are in pdf and we are using Dell PC
A:	In order to print a two-color job there are two important steps that need to be followed when creating a PDF file. All the colors in the job must be defined as the desired spot colors. This is done in the application the job is being created in (such as Quark or InDesign). The PS or PDF file should be output using the In-RIP Separations or Device N settings from the application (Quark or In Design). Once you have a properly created a PDF file the RIP will be able to separate it to the correct colors/separations. A properly created PDF file (with 2 colors) will open in Acrobat as a composite file. In this format the on screen view will look like the final printed piece. In Acrobat 8 you can see a preview of the separations by clicking the Advanced>Print Production>Output Preview menu. Here you can see the colors in the job and select/deselect colors to preview it.
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Q:	I have a PM 52 with Alcolor. We installed new rollers, and seem to be having a lot of water problems: is running too dry down the center of the plate. Also, the intermediate roller does not want to carry ink. We have set ALL rollers to SPECS. Any suggestions?
A:	Check to see if the rollers are the same type that were in the press previously – i.e. alcohol free, or crowned for alcohol? It sounds as if you have crowned rollers which are meant for alcohol, and you are running alcohol free. If you re-install the old rollers, does the press run better? I suggest you check with who you purchased the rollers from, find out what type roller you were sold and that it is the correct roller for your application.
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Q:	I have a Quickmaster 46-1. I am getting scratching marks down the plate that I can't seem to stop. I have checked the water form roller and found the bearings were collapsing and replaced them, but I am still having a problem. What do you suggest?
A:	Depending on the age of the machine, plate scratches might be caused by two things, the plate processor or the plate loading guides on the press. Please check the plate guides on the press as well as the guides in the processor for sharp edges or build-up. In extreme cases worn guides with sharp edges might leave scratches.
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Q:	I have heard about SF 22 which I'm informed will clean both the blanket and the impression cylinder, is this correct? On our press this seems to do nothing. Is there a listing of all the SF numbers?
A:	When SF 22 (“Impression cylinder wash-up”) is selected, the blanket cylinder is thrown on the impression cylinder during the next wash-up procedure, and included in the wash-up. The selection always refers to the next wash-up procedure only! Afterwards, SF 22 (“Impression cylinder wash-up”) is deselected. Please see a list of all customer accessible SF functions below. All current presses have all functions – however, the functionalities were added over time, so some functions might not be available on earlier presses. For further information please refer to the operator handbook. Direct Selection functions:   •   SF01 Dampening form roller on/off   •   SF02 Inking form rollers on/off   •   SF03 Blanket wash-up device on/off   •   SSF04 Powder spraying/air blast unit on/off   •   SF05 Change impression cylinder packing   •   SF06 Adjust perforating device Selector functions:   •   SF16 Operator guidance on/off   •   SF17 Numbering on/off   •   SF18 Perforating on/off   •   SF19 Sheet-length monitoring system on/off   •   SF20 Block printing on/off : manual insertion of a pile separator in the delivery pile   •   SF21 (Not assigned)   •   SF22 clean the impression cylinder   •   SF23 Production without impression on/off: If only numbering or perforating is required; SF 17 or SF 18 must be selected additionally. Numerical preselection:   •   SF31 Block preselection tape inserter   •   SF32 Interval index numbering   •   SF33 Preselection dry blanket Display functions:   •   SF45 Total number of impressions / totalizing counter display Diagnostic functions:   •   SF66 Press angle display   •   SF68 Sheet arrival display
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Q:	How tight should the chain be on this press (QM 46-2)? When I inch the press around, the gripper bars are hitting the screws that hold the blowdown fans on. I'm not sure if they are hitting when the press is at speed, but there is a lot of noise and movement in the chain when running. Which way do the adjustment bolts get turned to tighten the chain. None of this is covered in the manual.
A:	The chains on the P-QM 46 are self-adjusting. If the chains are making contact they need to be replaced. Please contact Heidelberg systemservice at 800-437-7388.
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Q:	I am running a QM DI Pro. I noticed over the last year I have been printing with an orange peel look on my 1st unit (black). I have to put lots of pressure to reduce the blochy look of the images. Normally I run at about a 0.05 or 0.06 on my pressure dial but now have to run at 0 to make images smooth. What is up?
A:	There can be various reasons for your problem. Here a couple of suggestions: • Check the temperature of your chiller. It might be set too cold (should be between 18-20 degree Celsius) • Check the age of your rollers. They need to be replaced on a regular basis • Check your roller settings - they should be as recommended in the operator manual • The ink chemistry might have changed - check with your ink manufacturer • Check the age and the packing of your blankets - they should be as recommended in the operator manual.
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Q:	I do not own a Heidelberg QM-46 Press. My major concern is the type of register control. Could you explain the type used on this small offset?
A:	The Printmaster QM 46-2 has on the fly adjustments for lateral and circumferential register settings (see pictures) in both units (you can make these adjustments while the press is running). The diagonal register setting is done via a special function that positions the plate cylinder and loosens the plate. The adjustments is made in “clicks” with a provided multi purpose wrench – again a very fast adjustment. On the fly register adjustment in unit 2              On the fly register adjustment in unit 1
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Q:	I’ve just purchased a (Heidelberg) Printmaster QM-46 and am running 12"x18" 100# text dull coated. PMS 128 (yellow) and black. Front 1/3 of sheet is solid yellow with black type on top. I put yellow in Unit 2 (nearest Feeder) and Black in Unit 1. The yellow is becoming contaminated from the black ink and the tacks are even and long (Zipset Inks). I have washed the yellow rollers thoroughly. The press run is 7,000 work and turn. Using 8 mil. polyester plates. I fault the single blanket. Any advice?
A:	From the description is appears that the problem is caused by the ink tack. When running any combination of color the light ink MUST be at least 1 tack point lower than the darker ink, this way the light ink will not pull the darker ink back onto itself. In the description it is indicated that unitack inks are used; this really only works in unitized machines, and even then the large majority of printers still use staggered tacks in their process and over print situations. With the common blanket it is important to use tack-rated inks; best results are usually achieved with the following approximate tack values: yellow 12-13, Red 14-15, blue 16-17, Black 18-19. We have seen runs as high as 10,000 sheets running Black and Yellow with no back trap contamination using the method above. Note to readers:  In the original answer above, we focused exclusively on the topic of ink tacks, which is usually the main issue at hand. However, we didn't discuss which color to put into which unit. A sharp reader brought this to our attention (thanks Lance) so to the answer above, we add our recommended ink allocation: Light color, low tack in Printing Unit 1 (above the delivery) Dark color, high tack in Printing Unit 2 (above the feeder)
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Q:	I'm thinking of changing from metal plates to 8mil Silver Digi-Plates. Will the Printmaster 46 automatically load and eject these 8 mil polyester plates? Is there any reason to be concerned about tight registration (and trapping) between the main and second color head when using these plates?
A:	8 mil plates work very well in the PM 46. You will have to adjust the blanket packing and reset the rollers to accommodate the thicker plates. Also, be aware of different settings for the dampening system. You might also see an increase in the amount of make-ready sheets. Make sure you are using the plates with the matte back, as that minimizes the plate movement. Heidelberg also provides an 8 mil Polyester plate material called the Cristala Quickplate; if interested, please contact us at 1-888-472-9655.
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Q:	We have a QM 46-2, and tried on the odd occasion to print 4 color process runs, with relatively pleasing results; however we found a few issues. First we could only use an A4 sheet size, long edge into the grip. We had to use a 200 gsm board, and the register did move slightly. We were wondering, apart from the tips .pdf you have published, if there was any more information you could pass on, ie. what paper weights run the best for 4 color work? Do you have the pile pressed fully against the spring or slightly touching to keep a tight register throughout out the length of the run?
A:	Not knowing the serial number and the total impressions on the machine, I will go on the premise that the machine is in average condition. To obtain the best possible results when running 4 color process jobs on the QM 46 start with good quality paper running long grain (I would recommend 80 & 100 lb text weight minimum). This will help eliminate register problems in the tail corners (fan out). Also, if you have an IR dryer use it at approx 70% on the first pass to prevent paper shrinkage during drying, then at 90-95% on the final pass. If the job is two-sided, run all four colors on one side before running the back side, otherwise you will have fit issues on medium-to-long runs. It is also recommended that the loads be covered with plastic if the second pass of the four color will not be run on the same day. This will help keep the moisture in the paper, which helps with fit on the second pass. The paper company's have load bags they provide to large printers for very long runs, or a small shop can use an ordinary trash bag to achieve the same result. When setting up the feeder, always make sure the paper is firmly held to the front and side standards, and test to be sure it will feed consistently before you start the run. Once you have verified that the job is in fit and is registering to your satisfaction, DO NOT CHANGE IT DURING THE RUN. This will help to insure consistent register throughout the run.
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Q:	Is there an automated way to read ink dots and automatically adjust the ink keys?
A:	Most prepress RIPs have the capability of generating what is called a PPF (Print Production Format) file. It is commonly referred to as a "CIP3 file." This is a file that is used to generate ink-key presets on a press and is based on the same data that is used to generate proofs and plates (or film). The PPF must be processed through an intermediate application before being sent to the press for presetting the ink keys, which analyses the ink coverage, per color and per ink zone, and calculates the physical ink key openings, which are then provided to the press. The press interprets this information and applies it automatically. The PPF can be transferred to the press either by a job memory card or directly to the press if the press is networked. The press must have remote ink control capability in order for this to work. Most press manufacturers build the ability to read the presetting data into their presses, and sell the intermediate software that interprets the PPF. The software is usually proprietary to the press. The Heidelberg interpretation software is called Prinect Prepress Interface. Systems from Heidelberg that are capable of performing the presetting function for Speedmaster and suitably equipped Printmaster presses: Delta RIP with CIP3 option (past generation Heidelberg RIP) Prinect MetaDimension with CIP4 option (current generation Heidelberg RIP) Prinect Prepress Interface      PPF Interpretation software
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Q:	We have a QM-46-2 and we’re running a 2 color letterhead on 70# Finch Fine Text. The copy is washing out like there’s too much water. We can get it to print half decent but have to run the press at 5000/hr. If we switch the paper to almost anything else including glossy the problem goes away. The pressman says the water roller pressure is as tight as it goes. Do you have any suggestions?
A:	This sounds like a problem of chemical contamination in the paper. As a test try this: Run approximately 100 sheets of the paper through the press on impression only, (no ink or water) Wash your blanket and plate (if there was one on the press). Run the same sheets through the press normally to see if the results change. I think you will see an improvement. Running the paper through on impression only will help remove whatever it is on the sheet surface causing the problem.
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Q:	I have a 1996 Quickmaster 46-2 color. After running the 2nd unit and washing up, when going into my next job and putting the press into the production mode on the OS of the 2nd unit I have no dampener contact on the last 4 inches on my plate on the OS. I have to adjust the red screw clockwise to print clean. Is this a bad setting or a worn part? Also, both water units rock in sync with the oscillating roller - is this normal?
A:	You may have to adjust your plate. This adjustment is done by means of the adjustment screws on the ends of the form roller shaft, not the Red Screw. *The Red Screw adjusts the pressure between the form and the pan roller (3mm stripe). Items to look for if the adjustment to the plate cannot be achieved by means of the screw on the shaft: Problem - The cams on the control shaft could be worn or loose Solution - Check for wear and the screw for tightness Problem - The pins at the bottom of the water system frames could be worn or not adjusted Solution - The adjustment screw should be flush with frame Problem - The compression springs in water system frames are worn Solution - Pull the adjustment screws to check springs and replace as needed Problem - Frames are loose and wobbling excessively (worn bearing journals) Solution - You might need a new water system cpl. Problem - Form roller worn Solution - Swap the ends to see if problem goes to opposite side Please note: The roller cannot be used this way because of the position of the adjustment screws to stops * The RED screw is an adjustment screw used in setting the control stripe 3.1mm of the Dampening form roller MV.028.411 /09 to the Water pan roller MV.039.427 /02. It is possible that the self locking Helicoil is fatigued and allows free movement of the RED screw and loss of adjustment. Replacement of Helicoil required HDM: Part number 00.580.2707/ Threaded insert magazine M6x0, 75x 9 and can be ordered thru Heidelberg spare parts. As this insert requires special tools to insert, you would need to contact www.alcoafasteningsystems.com and request the following tool, part number # 50188. Additionally, it would also be possible that you are experiencing bearing fatigue of dampening rollers. Please check and inspect for damage and or wear of all bearings of the Dampening system. This answer is our response based on your input. If you have any concern on how to safely make any of these adjustments or to investigate the problem further, please contact Heidelberg systemservice 1-800-437-7388.
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Q:	I have Version 1.5.5 (Build 613.1) Medium format, PDF handler 2.77 Imagine the following: 4 pages of 8 1/2 by 11 (Automatic platement rule), Saddlestich binding. Plate: SM 74, Work and Turn, sheetsize 25 by 19 Scheme: F04-01_ui_2x1, expert mode check odd columns (head-to-head) File->save Now, rotate page one using this method: In the Press Sheet view, double click page one (folding sheet inspector) and double clock page one AGAIN (Page Inspector) . In placement rule for 1up, choose By user, from trim, 180. Go back to Press Sheet view and confirm page one is rotated. File->save I want the rotated page to stay rotated, in other words I want it to "stick" no matter what else I do. Bring up Job Part Instector (control-2), click on schemes, Gaps and master pages, and change something, say the vertical gutter by typing in a new number. Naturally you see the warning you are about to change a setting that another inspector has set, but click on yes. Notice that page one has rotated itself back to its default orientation. Is there any way to rotate the page, and make it stick?
A:	In Imposition mode, Signa Station will automatically adjust back to the original folding scheme if a page is rotated. Use Montage mode to avoid this behavior.
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Q:	Why is it that Heidelberg DI presses are not sold anymore?
A:	Heidelberg USA continues to sell Quickmaster DI presses. The majority of these presses are refurbished presses. The refurbished DI presses offer an affordable and easy entry into the four color short run market. Heidelberg USA continues to support all existing Quickmaster DI users with parts, service, consumables (plates, blankets etc.), RIP upgrades as well as phone support for print technical questions and workflow questions. Heidelberg stopped manufacturing new QM DI presses because the worldwide demand for new small format presses shifted towards landscape presses with more flexible configurations (e.g. 5th color, inline coating, inline perfecting). At the same time the advent of small format CtP systems, attractive CtP-plate pricing, greater press automation and overall higher productivity changed some of the underlying assumptions that made the new QM DI presses a great success in earlier years.
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Q:	How does the pro model compare with the Presstek 34 DI?
A:	Please contact your local Heidelberg representative or our direct marketing department at 1-888-472-9655 We will be happy to discuss this question in a personal dialogue.
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Q:	I have a GTO Z-52. Can a coating unit be put on this press?
A:	There is a Heidelberg approved roll-on coating unit available. It is manufactured by the German company LACO. There are some prerequisites for the press for this to work with the LACO unit. It must have the "Plus" drive - also called the "basic equipment for numbering and imprinting," which can't be retrofitted to an existing press. The "Plus" drive is necessary to drive the coating unit during the production run. Also, the interface adapter for peripheral devices (STA unit) is required - if necessary, this part can be retrofitted to an existing press. Once installed, the LACO coating unit requires an air-cooled dryer - usually these two components are sold and installed together. Check the LACO website for images and more details: www.laco-bruchsal.de
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Q:	On packing sheets for QM46 what gauge are the different colors?
A:	The chart below shows the colors and their measurements. » Printer Friendly Version
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Q:	I seem to be going through a lot of wash up blades on my GTO 52, about 1 each unit every 2 months. Is there a fix for this?
A:	There are two reasons that wash up blades wear quickly, the first is that they are set too tight against the oscillating roller and the second is allowing the blade to remain on the roller too long at the end of the wash up. When setting the wash up blade, the operator needs to set the blade (on models with manual adjusting screws) just light enough to remove the ink and no more. On models newer than Drupa 2000, the operator should check the adjustment of the stop screw on the operator and drive side for proper adjustment, (see drawing below) so that when the wash up unit is engaged it make just enough contact to remove the ink.
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Q:	Do you need to run different Ink Tacks when running a two color job?
A:	Yes and No…… No, because if the colors on the job are not touching, then the ink tacks can be the same. Yes if you are wet trapping; then you need different ink tacks so they trap properly on the sheet of paper.
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Q:	Is there any way to keep the polyester plate from stretching?
A:	Yes. You can turn the plate over on the back side, and use 500 grit wet and dry automotive type sandpaper to scratch the back side of the plate at a 45 degree angle to the lead edge of the plate, in both directions. Then wet the back side of the plate and load it on the cylinder……The scratches will provide pockets of air and water and cause the plate to stick to the cylinder. The only downside is that the plate will have to be taken off by hand because it sticks so well to the cylinder.
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Q:	If you add ink reducer to ink, will it change the color?
A:	Yes. Ink chemists have formulated the ink with the correct ratios of ink pigment (color), vehicle (carrying agent), and additives for drying of the ink, so if you add anything to the ink it will weaken the strength of the other two categories, causing the ink to be light in film strength. Talk to your ink manufacture to make changes to your ink; their chemists have much more knowledge about the make up of the ink and can provide you with a solution for your needs.
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Q:	I'm getting a tone down the side of the printed sheet. What could be the cause?
A:	There could be many reasons for this condition. The first to check are the roller adjustments in the ink train, you could have swelled rollers. The second would be to check the dampening system for adjustment, where perhaps the water system is only working on one side or the other. The third would be to check rollers to make sure they have enough ink on them to carry the water to the plate and the ink is not emulsified. There are many reasons that a tone or scum happens on a plate.
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Q:	How do you print 4 color on a standard #10 envelope?
A:	Most printers would print the 4 color job on the flat sheet first and then convert the envelope to a # 10 envelope. Check with your envelope house and they can give you the format to follow to print the flat sheets.
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