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How The Model 105 Marking Machine Works
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The Models 105 and 105EW are portable, electric, semiautomatic letterpress marking machines. They are capable of both direct contact and offset imprinting methods. The capabilities of the two machines differ only in the maximum part size capacity for direct imprints. The maximum part size capacity for the offset method is the same for both machines. See the data sheet for specifications.
"Direct" means the die applies the imprint by "direct" contact with the part being marked. With "Offset" marking, the print die applies a mirror image imprint to a soft rubber "offset pad." The imprint transfers to the part being marked when the part is pressed onto or rolled over the wet ink on the offset pad. The direct method is applicable to only flat or nearly flat surfaces on parts of uniform height. The offset method is universally applicable and the way to mark curved, irregular or parts that are otherwise not uniform. Both methods produce excellent results.
 Offset imprinting cylindrical shape. |  Direct imprinting |
Most any kind of printing die is applicable as a "Print Unit." Whether a rubber printing plate, changeable rubber type, metal engraving or metal type, each is useful for particular needs. Generally, rubber or other soft polymer dies are suitable for either direct or offset imprints. Metal or other hard dies are applicable for only offset marking or direct marking only on soft surfaces. In some cases, more than one die or kind of die can make up a Print Unit. Print Units install easily in the machine and change easily from job to job. The machines use paste or semi-paste inks that are chosen for suitability to the job. A very small amount of ink is sufficient to coat the ink roll and the rotating ink plate. Many, many parts may be marked before requiring more ink.
Simple adjustments on the machine ensure that the ink roll barely touches the characters of the Print Unit and the Print Unit barely touches the item positioned on the work table. Momentary contact of the foot switch actuates the machine through one cycle. A cycle is complete when the printing arm of the machine with its inked printing die swings downward to its lowest point, touches the object being imprinted and returns to its starting point. The ink roll applies a thin coat of ink to the die as the print arm lowers and again as the print arm returns. A cycle takes less than three seconds with a "standard speed" machine; just over one second for a "double speed" machine.
A positioning device for your part on your work table will be helpful for accurate repeatable placement of direct imprints. Creative use of guides or custom shaped offset pads will help accurately place offset marks. For precision placement of offset marks into really difficult spots, consider our Model 200 fixture.
Please consider sending us samples of the parts you want to mark. Tell us what you want to do. We will mark your parts with a sample mark and return them with our recommendations.