Common Problems with Printing Blankets and How to Avoid Them
                     Common Problems 
with Printing Press 
Blankets and How 
to Avoid Them
Printing press blankets are crucial for high-quality offset 
printing. They transfer ink from plate to paper, ensuring 
consistent prints. Proper maintenance maximizes blanket 
lifespan and print quality.
The Role of Printing Press 
Blankets
1 Ink Transfer
Printing blankets pick up ink from the plate. They 
ensure even distribution across the surface.
2 Image Reproduction
The blanket transfers the ink to paper. It maintains 
image clarity and detail.
3 Pressure Distribution
Blankets provide uniform pressure. This ensures 
consistent ink coverage across the print area.
Blanket Smashes: A 
Common Problem
Cause
Foreign objects impact the blanket. This creates permanent 
depressions in the surface.
Impact
Print quality becomes uneven. Areas with smashes show as 
light or missing spots.
Prevention
Inspect paper for debris. Keep press area clean. Use blanket 
guards when possible.
Swelling and Blistering 
Issues
Swelling Blistering Prevention
Blankets absorb Trapped solvents Use solvent-
solvents or inks. create bubbles. resistant 
This causes the These appear as blankets. 
surface to raised areas on Minimize 
expand the blanket cleaning agent 
unevenly. surface. exposure. Allow 
proper drying 
time between 
runs.
Delamination: A Structural 
Failure
Initial Stress
Excessive tension or chemical exposure weakens 
blanket structure. Layers begin to separate internally.
Visible Symptoms
Bulges or bubbles appear on surface. Print quality 
deteriorates in affected areas.
Complete Failure
Layers fully separate. Blanket becomes unusable and 
requires immediate replacement.
Combating Ink Build-Up
Regular Cleaning
Clean blankets after each run. Use appropriate solvents for ink type.
Surface Treatment
Apply anti-adhesive coatings. These reduce ink accumulation between cleanings.
Temperature Control
Maintain optimal press temperature. This prevents ink from drying on blanket 
surface.
Best Practices for Blanket 
Maintenance
1 Daily Inspection
Check for wear signs daily. Look for smashes, swelling, or edge damage.
2 Proper Cleaning
Use recommended agents sparingly. Avoid excessive scrubbing to 
prevent surface damage.
3 Storage
Store in cool, dry areas. Keep away from direct sunlight and chemical 
exposure.
4 Documentation
Log blanket changes and issues. This helps identify recurring problems 
and optimize replacements.