Abstract: An apparatus and method converts an existing printing press to offset printing. An auxiliary frame and two auxiliary impression cylinders are mounted to the press and existing cylinders are adapted for offset printing. A new web path is defined to the cylinders, through an auxiliary cross brace member. The shafts of auxiliary cylinders are eccentrically mounted dead shafts. The cylinder surface is friction driven by the web. Bearers smooth the movement of the cylinders across the blanket slots. The auxiliary cylinders are maintained on impression by an incompressible fluid for uniform impression and thrown off rapidly by a pressurized gas.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing apparatus such as a spray dampener sprays fluid on the rollers of a printing press. The spray is regulated by an automatic controller which pulses the spray at time intervals related to the signal of a press speed sensor. Fluid pressure controls and orifice configuration controls are eliminated; fluid pressure and orifice size are fixed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method converts an existing printing press to offset printing. An auxiliary frame and two auxiliary impression cylinders are mounted to the press and existing cylinders are adapted for offset printing. A new web path is defined to the cylinders, through an auxiliary cross brace member. The shafts of auxiliary cylinders are eccentrically mounted dead shafts. The cylinder surface is friction driven by the web. Bearers smooth the movement of the cylinders across the blanket slots. The auxiliary cylinders are maintained on impression by an incompressible fluid for uniform impression and thrown off rapidly by a pressurized gas.