A Unique Solution to the Problem of Ink Fountain Design.

A precision ink fountain design for a lithographic press is described. Its main features are accurate positioning of both the fountain assembly and individual keys, with the result that fountain key settings or positions are both presettable and repeatable. The design requirements or specifications of an ink fountain are reviewed with particular emphasis on the range and accuracy needed in the ink key mechanism. The unique flexure mechanism employed to position the keys and the scheme for accurately locating the fountain assembly with respect to the fountain roller are described. A prototype ink fountain, incorporating these features, is shown. Results of on-press tests run to demonstrate the capability of the fountain to handle forms with light, medium, and heavy ink coverage, are presented.