Printing Knowledge
Printing Knowledge

Discussion on Key Points for Developer Processor Cleaning

1. Regular Cleaning
Perform cleaning regularly, refill with fresh developer solution, and carry out maintenance according to the manufacturer's recommendations. All nozzles, tubes, brushes, and rollers should be cleaned frequently and replaced when necessary (their pressure should also be checked periodically). If required, wash the rollers with water and fresh developer solution.
Regular Cleaning

2. Filter Maintenance
Check and replace filters frequently according to the manufacturer's instructions. The concept that "all filters are the same" is incorrect—always use the recommended filter for each specific machine.

Lubricate parts according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Maintain the temperature and mechanical performance (e.g., dryer and developer solution) as specified by the manufacturer; use a thermometer to verify actual temperatures.
Ensure the processing speed matches the printing plate and developer solution used.
Check the daily replenishment of developer solution.
Use filters recommended by specific machines

3. Roller Tension Check
Test the machine with printing plates of various thicknesses, then evaluate the performance and results.
Test various thickness printing plates and evaluate performance

4. Inspect Wear
Check the guide rollers and gearboxes for wear or signs of overuse.

5. Alignment Check
Ensure that the coupling of the drive shaft and the roller coupling are properly aligned.

6. Chain Inspection
Verify that the drive chain is straight and maintains proper tension.

7. Attachment and Fastener Inspection
Check all accessible fittings and fasteners.
 
Maintain proper brush pressure adjustment to achieve optimal cleaning results for specific plates, ensuring even pressure distribution along the brush's entire length. Use a spring scale to verify proper adjustment.

8. Plate Storage
Store unexposed printing plates in a cool, dry, and dark environment. Use the oldest plates first (first-in, first-out principle). Handle plates under a manufacturer-recommended safelight. Store all chemical agents at room temperature.
Plate Storage

9. Maintain Developer Activity
Keep the developer solution temperature and activity consistent as per manufacturer's instructions. Adjust the processor speed to match the specific printing plate and developer solution used.
Maintain temperature and mechanical performance as sspecified by the manufacturer

10. Daily Replenishment
Check the replenishment rate of the developer solution every day.
Daily inspection of developer replenishment rate

When Requesting Technical Support for Developer Processor Malfunctions:
  • Prepare the following information:
  • Type of printing plate and chemical agents used
  • Plate evidence (do not damage it)
  • Actual development time (not just the panel reading)
  • Actual developer temperature (measured with a thermometer, not the display reading)
  • Actual gum temperature (measured, not displayed)
  • Actual dryer temperature (measured, not displayed)
  • If a control strip is used, record its readings
  • Brand, model, and size of the developer processor
  • Sample of defective print sheet(s)
  • Printing plate label number (e.g., 00012)
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