Abstract: A continuous seal type lithographic dampener is fitted with a one-piece metering roller which has a continuous surface coating of flame sprayed (as by plasma arc) chromium oxide particles providing a porous surface which is filled with a pore occluding sealer. The resulting cylindrical surface is than ground to a finish in the order of 20 to 30 micro inches. A finish coat of sealer is applied to the surface of the roller. The resultant metering roller is highly wear resistant and hydrophobic, having a surface energy in the order of 30 to 40 dynes/cm.

Abstract: A drive disengaging device for a seal-type dampening system in an offset lithographic printing press. The disengaging mechanism includes a clutch gear rotationally mounted on a drive shaft and having a clutch bearing securely mounted thereto. The drive shaft incorporates a specified diameter, on which the clutch bearing functions as designed, and a stepped diameter, on which the clutch bearing does not function as designed. Alternate axial positioning of the clutch bearing between the specified diameter and the stepped diameter causes the clutch bearing to function or not function, respectively, as designed. Gear mesh between the clutch gear and the press drive train is maintained when the clutch gear is in either position. Axial positioning of the gear clutch assembly is controlled by the press operator through an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly can be either an axial-type or rotation-type, depending on the press configuration and space restrictions.

Abstract: The present invention is an air operated fluid handling apparatus for cleaning lithographic presses. It provides a printing press operator with a device for both dispensing ink solvents and removing spent fluids used in the printing process. Compressed air is regulated and directed to a T-section connector. One conduit extends from the connector to provide pressure in an ink-solvent container. Another conduit extends from the connector to a venturi which is used to create a vacuum in a used-fluid container. A conduit extends from each container and connects to a light weight flexible hose. Connected to the opposite end of the flexible hose is a valve and nozzle assembly that allows the press operator to alternate between dispensing ink solvent and remove spent fluid. With this apparatus the press operator can effectively move from printing head to printing head dispensing ink solvent and removing used fluids as necessary for ink train and dampening system cleanup.

Abstract: A segmented oscillating fluid evaporator roller for removing excess moisture from the ink in the ink train or dampener system rollers of a printing press. The segmented oscillating roller consists of a hollow shaft having air slots along its length and into which pressurized air is admitted. Rotating and oscillating around the hollow shaft on bearings is a roller shell having roller segments attached thereon. Said roller segments run against and are frictionally driven by an inked roller in the press. Between the roller segments and through the roller shell are air orifices through which the pressurized air is expelled. The pressurized air may be heated to promote moisture evaporation. To ensure the air flows from the air slots of the hollow shaft to the air orifices of the roller shell there is an air channel tube. The air being expelled from the segmented oscillator roller can be directed to impinge on the surface of the driving roller by rotating the hollow shaft and air channel tube.