Mottling/Poor Solids
Printed solid areas are not uniform or smooth in appearance. Ink density is uneven or light.
| Cause | Cure |
|---|---|
| Stock has a non-uniform surface. | Consult paper supplier for better grade of paper. Consult ink supplier for an ink that will minimize the problem. |
| Too much printing pressure. | Reduce pressure, check blanket packing and gauge, check press settings. |
| Improper setting on ink rollers, or rollers are in poor condition. | Check ink roller settings and reset to specifications. Check roller condition and durometer. |
| Improper ink and water balance | Adjust ink and water settings, usually reducing the water and ink will help the most. |
| Blanket needs to be replaced, or has become worn in certain areas, or has been contaminated by chemistry or paper fillers and coatings. | Replace blanket or properly clean blanket. Consult blanket manufacturer. |
| Poor ink transfer or laydown. | Consult ink manufacturer. |
| Plate image area not accepting and transferring ink properly. | Check to make sure plates are being processed properly. Consult plate manufacturer. |
| Lack of impression. | Check blanket height. |
| Improper fountain chemistry mix and or poor dampening | Check for proper dosage of chemistry and check dampening rollers for uniform application. |