Are synthetic doctor blades a viable option to replace your steel doctor blades? The answer is quite simply YES. Synthetic is safe, reliable, greatly reduces anilox scoring and increases longevity compared to many steel options. Don’t be fooled, this is a premium blade with a precision edge that is available in any tip configuration, capable of performing with high line screen graphics and anilox rolls that many Narrow Web and Wide Web Convertors demand.
Safety:
Steel blades are honed to a razor sharp edge after a period of time. You can rest easy knowing you are not putting your operators in harms way when changing synthetic blades. Although, it is still recommended to wear cut resistant gloves when handling synthetic blades, the risk of significant injury is virtually eliminated.
Scoring:
No magnets needed here to collect steel shavings from the wear of steel blades. The materials that are used in the construction of synthetic blades dramatically reduce the risk of scoring anilox rolls. Synthetic also meters uniformly with less pressure, this combined with the very low risk of scoring, significantly reduces the wear on your anilox rolls in comparison to steel.
Longevity:
Utilizing bi-axially oriented polyester Esterlam creates a much stronger structure with a high resistance to chemicals and temperature, allowing the blades to remain stable. This process combined with less blade pressure can result in significantly increased run times.
If you would like to improve the safety of your production personnel, increase the life expectancy of your anilox rolls and run your doctor blades longer between changes, APR’s Technical Solutions Group can help.
If you want to learn more about this subject, please feel free to reach out to us by calling 1-800-445-4017, or by e-mail at: [email protected].
All Printing Resources has formed our Technical Solutions Group (TSG) to encompass our full range of expertise in all critical areas of the flexo process. This team is made up of industry professionals dedicated to being up-to-date on new technologies along with best practices. They are armed with the latest in diagnostic tools, and are experienced in problem-solving that can achieve sustainable results. The TSG have walked in your shoes, and have felt your pain.