Specifications

Press Integration Questions

1. What fountain solution should I use?

If you are using Polyester plates today, then it is likely that the fountain solution that you are using will be

compatible with Epson DirectPlate-Aluminum technology.

Here is a list of recommended Fountain Solutions:

• RBP UniTrol 192

• Prisco Fount Concentrate 142-126

• Agfa G671c

• Varn Universal Pink

Note: If you choose to use another fountain solution, make sure it is alcohol-free.

2. What is the recommended PH level of the fountain solution?

The Epson DirectPlate Aluminum fountain solution PH level should be between 4.1 and 4.5.

3. What plate cleaner do I need?

Here is a list of recommended Plate Cleaners

• HYDRO CLEAN™ RBP Chemical Technology, Inc.

• Varn CtP cleaner

• POSCO Hit-’n-Run emulsion plate cleaner

• Ultrachem POWA PLATE CLEANER

• Ultrachem Speedclean EXP plate cleaner

• Fujifilm PS Plate Multi Cleaner MC-E

• Prisco® Velocity Plate Cleaner

4. What is different about how I would use an Epson DirectPlate Aluminum Plate?

Epson DirectPlate-Aluminum technology is a unique solution that allows a water based (aqueous) ink to

adhere to it but also will repel water during the printing process (after being cured). Because the unique

coating on the surface of the Epson DirectPlate Aluminum uses a Hydrophilic coating (water loving)

some customers have noted that a longer warm up cycle is required and more water should be applied

to the plate before applying ink. Therefore, here are a few recommendations where your process might

be different than your standard process:

If the dampening system has a transition roller connecting the dampening system and the inking system

together (For example: ALCOLOR and other similar continuous-feed dampening Systems), the transition

roller should be deactivated.

When the press starts up, the plates will require more water than conventional metal plates. Therefore,

sufficient dampening should be set in advance. You should provide about 30 seconds of pre-dampening

before turning on the ink rollers.

If the printing press has a pre-dampening function, (for example Heidelberg Printmaster QM 46) set a

higher pre-dampening level.

If there are short breaks during the set-up phase, or when the paper stack is being replaced, leave the

dampening rollers engaged on the plate. If this is not possible, restart printing in same manner as in the

initial start-up procedure.