Abstract: The invention relates to a system for applying dampening fluid to the plate cylinder of printing presses which is particularly adapted to contacting continuous dampening systems. The dampening fluid applying roller is in contact with the rotating plate cylinder and there is a wiping action between the dampening fluid applying roller and the plate cylinder which loosens foreign particles from the plate cylinder so they can be removed. The dampening fluid applying roller rotates at a different speed than the plate cylinder to cause the wiping action. Preferably, the dampening fluid applying roller rotates at a slower speed than the plate cylinder. In another form of the invention an ink receptive roller is driven at the same speed as the dampening or delta roller while in contact with the dampening roller.