Frequently Asked Questions
An etching press is a press mainly used for printmaking techniques such as intaglio, woodcut, and lithography. It allows pressure to be applied to a plate or matrix to transfer the image onto paper.
Presses with bottom drive work by transferring motion from the bottom roller (knurled for friction) to the top roller and platen. Over time, the knurling wears out, causing slippage and requiring artists to increase pressure, which can affect the print.
Presses with top roller drive eliminate this problem. The top roller, connected to the wheel, moves the platen and bottom roller without risk of slipping, allowing work at low or high pressures without wear.
Alternative systems, such as rack and pinion, exist, but their high cost and lower precision make them less recommended. Bottom drive presses are more common due to simpler and cheaper manufacturing, while top drive presses, being more complex, tend to be more expensive.
All our Cameron and TC models feature top roller drive.
Reduction in a press refers to the system or mechanism that decreases the amount of pressure applied by the rollers onto the plate or matrix and the paper during the printing process. This is essential for controlling the quality and the final outcome of the print.
Reduction is usually achieved through a gearbox or gear system that adjusts the applied pressure. When the reduction is adjusted, the relationship between the movement of the flywheel and the movement of the rollers changes, allowing for a more precise and controlled application of pressure.
A well-adjusted reduction system makes printing much easier and more comfortable for the user. Proper reduction means the printing process requires less physical effort, making the task more accessible and less tiring. As we like to say at Tórculos Ribes, printing becomes a true pleasure.
We offer small and tabletop presses, such as the Alfa, Premier, and Cameron 40 models, as well as larger presses like the Cameron 60 and above, and all TC models. We invite you to review the differences between each of them in this
section.
The choice depends on the type of work, available space, and frequency of use.
For personalized advice, contact our team, who will guide you according to
your needs. You can also fill out a form, and we will contact you to provide
the best advice.
Yes, we ship worldwide. However, due to the weight and size of some presses, they may arrive at the nearest port rather than directly to your door. We recommend checking the specific shipping conditions before making a purchase.
Smaller presses, such as the Alfa, Premier, Cameron 40, and Cameron 60 models, usually arrive assembled. Larger presses (Cameron 80 and above, and all TC models) may arrive assembled if access to the location is easy, or disassembled if there are stairs or narrow doors. In the latter case, we offer the option for our technicians to assemble the press, for an additional cost.
Delivery time varies depending on the location and the press model. In general, we have nearly all models in stock, allowing for almost immediate delivery. For Europe, the estimated delivery time is approximately 15 business days. International shipments outside Europe may take longer, depending on the destination country.
It is important to ensure that doors, stairs, and other access points at the delivery location can accommodate the press, whether assembled or disassembled. If you have any doubts, our customer service team can advise you before shipping.
Returns are subject to our return policies. If you have any issues with the product, please contact us within the first 20 days after receipt to arrange a
return or exchange.
Yes, we provide maintenance and repair services for presses. You can contact us for more information about this service and the associated costs.