Anilox roller ultrasonic cleaning machine is a branch of the ultrasonic cleaning machine family. In flexographic printing, the anilox roller evenly transfers a certain amount of ink to the printing plate. The cells are inevitably damaged by ink skin, paper coating or paper wool or other If it is blocked by dirt, etc., which affects the printing quality and the normal use of the anilox roller, it must be cleaned in time.
Due to the characteristics of water-based inks, many manufacturers employ a pre-soaking method during ultrasonic cleaning to soften dried ink residues within the anilox cells before subjecting them to ultrasonic treatment.
Key Aspects of Pre-Soaking Solution
In the cleaning process, the formula of the pre-soaking solution is crucial. With a high pH, it aids in softening ink residues, reducing the level of ultrasonic waves during treatment to achieve cleaning effects without causing damage to the anilox cells. This approach significantly shortens the ultrasonic emission time by 80% to 90%.
Cleaning Process
During cleaning, the anilox roller should rotate slowly, and the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer in the liquid tank initiates vibrations. The continuous vibration, coupled with the roller's constant rotation, brings microscopic bubbles closer to the roller, generating ongoing bursts and vibrations. Under the influence of ultrasonic waves, the ink residues within the cells continuously shake and detach, achieving the goal of cleanliness.
Considerations During Ultrasonic Cleaning
Frequency Adjustment: The frequency of the ultrasonic cleaning machine should fall within the manufacturer's recommended range, based on multiple trials to determine the optimal cleaning frequency. Typically, a frequency of 40KHz is recommended, as it generates the smallest bubbles that penetrate the anilox cells for effective cleaning.
Temperature Control: The temperature of the cleaning solution affects cleaning quality. Higher temperatures reduce the viscosity of the cleaning agent, increase the quantity of bubbles in the liquid, and enhance the ultrasonic cleaning capability. It is generally advised to maintain the cleaning agent temperature between 40 to 60°C, and the cleaning agent must be a specialized ultrasonic cleaning solution.
Time Control: Precise control of ultrasonic emission time is crucial, as prolonged exposure may damage the surface of the anilox roller and cell walls. Pre-cleaning usually involves soaking for 0.5 to 24 hours to soften ink impurities within the anilox cells. Based on experience, ensuring a safe cleaning time of no more than 5 minutes, without causing damage to the anilox roller, is recommended. Adjustments should be made during actual operation according to different anilox rollers.
Caution Regarding Resonance Effects: The essence of ultrasonic cleaning does not solely rely on vibration to achieve cleaning; vibration is merely an inevitable byproduct of transducer operation. Objects with higher density may experience a resonance effect. Therefore, careful inspection of high-density and fragile ceramic anilox rollers is essential to avoid further damage caused by resonance. Ceramic anilox rollers with existing cracks are already damaged, and even alternative cleaning methods may exacerbate the extent of damage, similar to how cracked porcelain is prone to increased fragility.
