Laser engraved ceramic anilox roller surface options: how to save on maintenance costs, Corrugating International, October 2004 (327KB)

In many corrugated flexographic printing environments, maintenance managers and printing supervisors continue to choose anilox surfaces based upon cost versus those surfaces which may be a bit more expensive, but provide added durability and printability. This is often the case in situations in which the printing requirements are relatively simple or the print quality is thought to be of minimal importance. In other more demanding printing situations, corrugated printers have long understood the advantages of premium laser engraved ceramic anilox rollers and how they combine the best of both worlds- excellent durability and printability. Let’s examine the basis for moving away from mechanically engraved and chrome-plated anilox rollers due to durability and wearability issues, and discuss the disadvantages of mechanically engraved and ceramic-coated anilox rollers. Then we can begin to understand the various laser engraved ceramic anilox roller surface options that are available to the industry. With open communication between vendors and plant personnel, combined with a knowledge of the printing requirements for each press, decisions on which laser surface to be utilized can be made to insure effective results, along with critical maintenance cost savings.