Fountain solution problems: causes and fixes
10 Fountain solution problems in offset printing and finishing: symptoms, probable causes, step-by-step fixes and prevention.
Fountain solution · TPG-044
pH out of range
Acidic (<4.5): drying inhibited, metallics damaged, plates attacked. High (>5.8): tinting, scumming
Fountain solution · TPG-045
High or rising conductivity
Values > 1,800-2,000 µS or climbing during the run; unstable dampening, tinting
Fountain solution · TPG-046
Hard make-up water (calcium/magnesium)
White deposits on rollers, plate blinding, irregular dampening
Fountain solution · TPG-051
Glazed or ink-contaminated dampening rollers
Dry stripes or uneven dampening; roller repels water
Fountain solution · TPG-047
Biological contamination (algae/bacteria)
Foul smell, slime in tank and lines, clogged filters
Fountain solution · TPG-048
Excess isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
High consumption, strong smell, reduced ink gloss, cost and compliance issues
Fountain solution · TPG-049
Alcohol substitute poorly adjusted
After reducing IPA: tinting, uneven dampening, foam
Fountain solution · TPG-050
High circuit temperature
Unstable dampening, IPA evaporation, emulsification, bacteria
Fountain solution · TPG-052
Water streaks on the print
Light vertical bands or washed-out zones in solids
Fountain solution · TPG-053
Plate corrosion/oxidation during stops
Rust dots or shadows when restarting after a stop