Several methods for cleaning anilox rollers include Soda blasting, Ultrasonic cleaning, and chemical cleaners. Some of these methods are more expensive and difficult to use than others. However, they all have their advantages. If you’re looking for a quick cleaning solution, you might consider using one of these methods.
Soda Blasting
Soda blasting is a robust cleaning process for anilox rollers. This process uses specially-formulated baking soda that is safe for use on anilox rolls. It is also water-soluble and can be removed from the roll surface without causing any damage. The nozzle and vacuum head are built into one unit, eliminating dust and other problems associated with traditional cleaning methods.
Soda blasting is a powerful anilox roll cleaner that removes dirt, grime, and ink particles from anilox rollers. This approach is considered the most successful and environmentally friendly way to clean anilox rolls. Depending on the roll’s dust and pollution, the cleaning process can take as little as 45 minutes. The process is entirely automated, allowing the machine to do its job without causing any damage to the rolls.
To achieve maximum cleaning results, anilox rollers should be cleaned regularly. Anilox roll cleaning is an integral part of the process in a commercial printing facility. Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems offers special machines to clean anilox rollers using this cleaning process. The machines utilize Arm & Hammer Baking Soda and Armex Blast Media, sized to be more than 8 microns in diameter. These particles penetrate the anilox roller cells and break down the ink.
Anilox roll cleaning can be performed using different methods and at different frequencies. According to the CEO of Sonic Solutions, some anilox roll cleaning companies will clean their anilox rolls every few years. Others may do it monthly. However, the majority of converters recommend cleaning anilox rolls regularly.
Chemical Cleaners
When using chemical cleaners for anilox roller cleaning, it is essential to adhere to safety protocols to prevent harm to the anilox rolls. These practices include wearing protective gloves and safety glasses. Always read the Safety Data Sheet before utilizing a chemical. In addition, be sure to follow all EPA and OSHA guidelines to prevent any potential dangers.
There are several different types of chemical cleaners available for anilox roller cleaning. Some cleaners are formulated for specific chemistries, and others are designed for various chemistries. For example, soda blasting technology uses small granules of sodium carbonate to remove dried cell content. Then, the roll is wiped clean to remove any soda residue. Another cleaning method is MicroClean Systems, which uses a dry media cleaning system. Unlike liquid cleaning agents, MicroClean media pellets are biodegradable and thoroughly remove all types of dried ink. In addition, MicroClean System restores cell volume with each cleaning.
Chemical cleaners for anilox roller cleaning are also available as a soap or detergent. These cleansers effectively remove ink from the roller and reduce downtime and cleaning costs. However, they are not environmentally friendly and can damage the roller’s light metal bodies and elements.
Ultrasonic Cleaners
Ultrasonic cleaning systems are a cost-effective and safe way to clean Anilox rollers. They are designed to deep clean both gravure cylinders and anilox rolls and are ideal for simultaneously cleaning large quantities of rolls. They can reduce set-up time and press downtime, maximize the life of rolls and improve print quality.
This apparatus can clean rolls indefinitely and emits ultrasonic power at 68 kHz. The ultrasonic power can be controlled by an equipment control unit. These tools are made of stainless steel and have heavy-duty urethane rollers or detachable supports.
Anilox rollers can be cleaned using various methods, including a plastic bead system. The plastic beads, typically mounted off-press, are impacted against the anilox surface with an air pressure of 35 to 70 psi. The beads then penetrate the anilox cell and break up dried ink. In addition, ultrasonic cleaning equipment is cost-effective, requiring less energy than traditional methods.
Ultrasonic cleaning systems are an efficient method for cleaning most items. They can also be used to clean ancillary components, such as doctor blade chambers and pumps. Some machines can also clean polymer plate and rubber roll components.
