What is Tympan Grease?
In lithography printmaking, tympan grease is a specialized lubricant applied to the tympan— the smooth, protective layer that covers the printing bed or cylinder— to ensure even pressure and prevent sticking during printing.
It helps the scraper bar move smoothly over the tympan surface, paper, and stone or plate, reducing friction that could cause slippage, smudging, or tearing.
How is Tympan Grease Used?
Tympan grease is applied between the scraper bar and tympan sheet, to lubricate the scraper bar as it glides across plate or stone.
What are the Benefits of Tympan Grease?
Tympan grease also helps protect delicate paper surfaces from excessive moisture and abrasion, maintaining consistent contact between the image area and the press bed. Proper use of tympan grease contributes to cleaner impressions, longer tympan life, and more stable print runs, making it an important part of traditional lithographic press maintenance.
We've found the Lucas Red "N" Tacky Grease that is made in USA to be the best grease for litho printing. It was originally designed for high-pressure and industrial applications to prevent excess wear, friction, and heat, so it is perfect for your printmaking equipment.
Each Lucas jar is fitted with a wide mouthed lid making it easy to access the tympan grease with any ink knife.
