Interrelationship of the Variables and Parameters Which Affect the Performance of Brush Dampeners

Brush dampening systems, of the type in widespread use today on web offset presses, are examined in this paper. The objective is to identify the major variables and parameters of the system, and to discover how they interrelate to establish dampening solution feedrate. The modern brush dampening system is described and its analogy to a single roll coater is pointed out. This analogy is employed in presenting the theory which explains system performance. Measured feedrate data is also presented, which confirms the validity of the analytical model in the range of interest. Important conclusions relating to system design and performance are given along with a listing of the relatively few major parameters and variables of the system. These findings have significant implications regarding the tracking of press speed by the pan roller motor controller. Background information on the history and evolution of brush dampener designs is also included.