The Anilox roller is the fundamental component of a coating system. It is the roller which transfers the coating from the reverse angle doctor blade chamber to the rubber roller. It is a precision engraved roller, designed and carefully manufactured to apply exactly the correct volume of coating.
There are two main types of Anilox rollers generally in use for Metal Decorating:
Mechanically Engraved Anilox Roller
While most mechanically engraved rollers are coated in aluminum with a copper base, our standard practice is to use a double thickness chrome plating. This ensures a smooth coating transfer as well as preserving the life of the Anilox roller.
Laser Engraved Ceramic Anilox Roller
Usually reserved for more precise applications, the Ceramic Anilox roller is a common choice for its durability and laser engraved cell structure. Coatings that usually require a lower volume favor a Anilox rollers laser engraved in Ceramic.