The anilox is classified as the heart of the press and responsible for ink transfer. The correct selection is based on understanding the importance it has on color reproducibility.
To correctly determine which one to use, it is best to perform a Finger Print Test, which contains thin and thick lines, positive and negative texts with different sizes and fonts, solid areas, barcode, concentric lines to verify the printing pressure, combinations of plots, rulings and percentages of various points, gray scale, registration marks, among other items. Additionally, a belt anilox roll that contains different lines and BCMs must be requested from the manufacturer.
Given the test result, you must also understand your printing needs in a macro way.
- Evaluate the type and characteristics of the substrate you are going to print (paper, cardboard, plastic, porosity, etc.).
- Consider the required print quality, such as resolution, line definition and color reproduction.
- Determine the speed of the printing machine and production requirements.
- If you are going to use water-based inks, measure their viscosity and pH.
- Carry out a visual inspection of the anilox to verify that it has no damage or wear.
Pay special attention to this last point, since all of the above goes hand in hand with the conditions of use and maintenance of the anilox.
You must see the flexographic printing process as a whole, all the intervening variables are important.
If you currently need to do or repeat a Finger Print Test, do not hesitate to contact us, our technical team will be happy to advise you, so that you get the most out of your press and its components.