A device added to many offset press inking systems consisting of a motorized revolving metal cone that runs along the ink fountain continuously stirring the ink. Ink agitators are commonly used with excessively thixotropic inks that increase in viscosity, or decrease in desired flow characteristics, while sitting. Ink agitators not only keep ink at a workable consistency, they also help reduce the formation of dried ink skins, which contribute to printing defects known as hickeys.
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