An Introduction to Flexography and the Role of Anilox Rolls in Packaging Industry

An Introduction to Flexography and the Role of Anilox Rolls in
Packaging Industry

Flexography: A Brief Overview
Flexography, often referred to as “flexo,” is a printing technique
widely used in the packaging industry. It utilizes flexible relief
plates to transfer ink onto a substrate, typically paper or film.
This process is known for its versatility, speed, and ability to
print on a variety of materials. Flexography finds applications in
industries such as food and beverage packaging, labels, corrugated
cardboard, and flexible packaging.

Understanding Anilox Rollers:

At the heart of the flexographic printing process lies the crucial
component known as the anilox roller. The anilox roller is a method
used to provide a measured amount of ink to a flexographic (flexo)
printing plate. Anilox rollers are cylindrical metal rollers
engraved with tiny cells of precise dimensions. These cells act as
ink reservoirs, precisely metering the ink to achieve consistent ink
transfer onto the printing plate. The term “anilox” originates from
the aniline printing process. This process utilized mechanically
engraved cylinders carrying an aniline solvent based inks which were
fast drying, commonly used in the corrugated market. In the 1930’s
International Printing Inks offered a branding of inks for the
aniline printing process. Many of these product descriptions ended
with “ox”. The term anilox printing was then born and has matured to
the common definition today of anilox roller and Flexographic
printing.

Key Functions of Anilox Rollers:

Ink Transfer: Anilox rollers play a vital role in
controlling the amount of ink delivered to the printing plate. The
engraved cells on the surface of the roll store and transport the
ink uniformly. The size, shape, and frequency of these cells
determine the volume of ink transferred, ensuring precise and
consistent color reproduction.

Ink Metering: The precision-engineered cells on
anilox rollers help regulate ink flow and control dot formation
during the printing process. By carefully controlling the ink film
thickness, anilox rollers enable accurate reproduction of fine
details, halftones, and smooth gradients, contributing to high print
quality.

Compatibility with Various Ink Chemistries: Anilox
rollers are available in a wide range of cell volumes and geometries
to accommodate various ink chemistries and viscosities. This
versatility allows flexographic printers to adapt to various
printing requirements, such as printing on different materials with
different ink formulations.

Harper Corporation of America: Leading the
Industry
When it comes to anilox rollers and other flexographic solutions,
one name stands out: Harper Corporation of America. With a rich
history spanning decades, Harper Corporation has been at the
forefront of advancing flexographic printing technology. As a
trusted partner to the packaging industry, Harper Corporation offers
innovative anilox roller solutions, state-of-the-art engraving
technologies, and expert technical support.

Conclusion:
Flexography, driven by the remarkable capabilities of anilox
rollers, continues to revolutionize the packaging industry. The
precise ink metering, controlled ink transfer, and compatibility
with various ink chemistries make flexography a preferred choice for
many printing applications. Whether it’s producing vibrant labels,
eye-catching packaging, or intricate designs, the combination of
flexography and anilox rollers opens up a world of possibilities.