There are several available deep cleaning methods, and we will discuss chemical, ultrasonic, and laser cleaning methods. Each method has pros and cons, and the process that is right for your anilox rollers may not be the best option. However, you should choose one way that you feel is right for your anilox rollers.
Chemical
There are several reasons for the chemical cleaning of anilox rollers. First, this process must be done safely. This means using rubber gloves and safety glasses. Chemical cleaning can also cause harm to the anilox roll, so it’s essential to follow proper rinsing procedures. Finally, to avoid damage to the anilox roll, it’s best to use a pH range of four to 11.8. The pH level is essential to determine when performing the cleaning process.
One reason to avoid chemical cleaning is the risk of damage to the anilox roller’s light metal elements and bodies. Light metals, such as aluminum, are particularly susceptible to damage from chemicals. This is especially true if the roller has been coated with soft metal. Chemical cleaning also reduces the overall performance of the anilox roller. It also increases the risk of machine failure. Therefore, it is essential to choose anilox cleaners that are safe for the environment.
Ultrasonic
Cleaning anilox rolls using ultrasonics is the most efficient method. Ink, glue, and coatings are all removed using this tool. In addition, ceramic rollers’ small cell chambers prevent traditional mechanical cleaning methods from reaching them. While blast systems can safely clean coarse anilox rolls, ultrasonic cleaning is a better option for cleaning fine-count anilox rolls. Additionally, ultrasonic cleaning systems recycle cleaning solutions, which helps reduce the second pollution.
The effectiveness of the ultrasonic cleaning method depends on the choice of cleaning solution and the type of choked material. The most effective cleaning solution will make the process effective with minimal ultrasonic energy. Moreover, the cleaning solution should be optimized for the choked material. For example, ultrasonic cleaning does not affect Ceramic anilox rollers adversely, but the solution must be suitable for the choked material.
Laser
Using a laser for anilox roller cleaning is an effective way to maintain high-quality flexo printing, as this process produces no waste. It is also environmentally friendly since no liquids are handled, and the operator does not need to wear safety goggles during cleaning. The laser also uses an indirect contact principle, so there is no risk of damaging the roller’s ceramic surface. The laser’s photons can penetrate deep into the ceramic surface, resulting in clean, healthy cells. The laser cleaning process is fast and easy, and the laser cleaners have built-in databases that keep track of the cleaning history of the rollers. The technicians can access the data from the database through a LAN connection.
The process of chemical anilox cleaning uses solvents that separate ink and bonding materials. Chemical cleaning in a machine is a viable option if you use an excellent ink-specific solvent. There are also environmentally-friendly solvents available for anilox cleaning. However, the dangers of using the wrong chemicals can be significant, as they may damage the roller or cause other inconveniences. In addition to causing inconvenience and costly repairs, improper cleaning methods may also lead to damaged rollers. Therefore, besides being inconvenient, anilox roller cleaning is a more effective and environmentally-friendly process.
HEPA
Cleaning the anilox rolls is vital to prevent ink buildup and cell plugging. Therefore, it is essential to clean the anilox immediately after use and at the end of the day. A simple touch screen interface controls the cleaning process. Ideally, you should clean the anilox rollers every day or after use. First, follow these steps to clean your anilox rollers and prevent blockages. Then, rinse them with clean water after each cleaning.
Anilox rollers are exposed to numerous chemicals and are at risk of corrosion. Many companies use aggressive chemicals to fight this problem, but these chemicals don’t differentiate between tools and will damage cylinder elements. The anilox rollers will be free of dust and impurities thanks to a sound HEPA cleaning system. An anilox roller of good quality will last an extended period. Cleaning your prints effectively will save you time and maintain the quality of your prints.