Platen machine

A machine in which the impression is effected by a platen, as distinguished from one which contains a cylindrical or other impressing surface. Platen machines are sometimes used for very fine printing, but they are necessarily so much slower in working, and cylinder machines have been so much improved, that they are fast dropping out of use, and few, indeed, are manufactured at the present day. They are also more dangerous; for one or more boys have to turn down the tympan, and are in danger of having their arms crushed in the machinery.