stop-cylinder press

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July 14, 2026

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A stop-cylinder press is a type of cylinder press where the cylinder only rotates when the printing bed moves forward, and it remains stationary during the return stroke. This contrasts with a two-revolution press, where the cylinder continuously rotates. In a stop-cylinder press, the bed moves back and forth, allowing the typeform to slide under the cylinder, which is wrapped with paper. This mechanism enables printing speeds of up to 5,000 sheets per hour. The stop-cylinder press was an important development in the history of printing, contributing to increased efficiency and output compared to earlier methods.123

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Koenig’s mechanical press (early 19th century)
In 1814 the first stop-cylinder press of this kind to be driven by a steam engine was put into service at the Times of London. It had two cylinders, which revolved one after the other according to the to-and-fro motion of the bed so as to double the number…
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In 1814 the first stop-cylinder press of this kind to be driven by a steam engine was put into service at the Times of London. It had two cylinders, which revolved one after the other according to the to-and-fro motion of the bed so as to double the number…
Read More