Cynical readers would usually apply negative connotations to the term. But there is nothing sinister about ‘doctoring’ blades. And so it goes that no less than two printing methods are produced by doctor blades for flexo printing purposes. These methods are known as rotogravure, also known just as gravure, and flexographic, or just simply known as flexo. Doctor blades, as they are referred to, are required to control the amount of ink that stains the printing cylinder. The blade materials used all have edge shapes.
All the doctored materials have been engineered for use on high performance presses. In order to do justice to the tools and materials’ ability to meet high production standards, the printing companies also need to take advantage of the associated services being offered. Conventional doctor blades are made from steel. But for those that discern in that direction, plastic and composite blade options can also be considered. All specially developed blades can deliver cost effective results.
But they still need to be properly used. Doing so also allows for longer lifespans, even when blades are turning at high speeds. The service provider is also available to assist those printing companies that currently have their own presses in place using older blades. They will start off with a diagnostics run. All things being equal, steel is still preferred by most printing presses. Carbon steel offer the industrialists economic alternatives. These materials are suitable for short running processing jobs using non-porous substrates and inks that are not too abrasive.
But steel blades, capable of long life cycles, will remain ideal for use with abrasive inks, as well as those that contain high percentages of titanium dioxide and roughly-hewn anilox rolls. Blades that are coated can improve blade performance, provide corrosion resistance and better lubrication.