Published Mar 13

Deep Clean Anilox

 

Operator Standard Work

Work Center

Job Description

 

Deep Clean Anilox

OSW#

PPE

Tools

 

 

 

Purpose:  If the dimples in the anilox roll fill with ink and dry the correct volume of ink is not being transferred to the plate. Buildup is usually uneven across the roller causing inconsistent transfer of ink. A deep cleaning removes buildup from the roller so even amounts of ink are applied to the plate. (See example of dirty anilox under microscope)

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Work Sequence

Element Description

Steps

Operating Instructions

Visual Depictions

 

Get proper brush

 

Determine the proper brush for cleaning the anilox

 

Stainless steel brush should be used on ceramic anilox roll (matte grayish look)

 

Brass brush should be used for chrome rollers (satin metal look)

 

Caution: Using the incorrect brush can damage the anilox roller

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Brushes should be labeled for use

Note the Anilox roller can stay in the machine

 

Deep scrub anilox in sections

 

Apply Cream Cleaner to the roll surface.

 

In 1-foot sections scrub the anilox roller with the correct brush

 

Rotate roller and repeat cleaning in sections till you have scrubbed the entire roll

 

Note: Do not use excessive force and scrub in circular motions

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(Heavy frothy black foam)

 

Verify no more color is coming from anilox roll when scrubbed

 

As you scrub the anilox roller you will notice color foaming up from the micro dimples

 

Flush with water to remove foamy ink

 

Keep applying flexo cleaner and repeat scrubbing until no more color foams up from the roller sections

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(Minimal frothy white foam)

 

Use handheld microscope to verify anilox roll is clean (Supervisor or other approved associate)

 

Get handheld microscope from Plant Manager and verify anilox roller is clean

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(Example of clean Anilox under microscope)

 

Final flush with water

 

Flush the rollers using the water hose and sprayer attachment

 

Turn the left side adjustable ink well nob clockwise to lower ink well down

 

Tilt ink well towards you to drain out the water

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