Doctor Blade Pressure Affects Blade Life and Coating Quality

Correct doctor blade installation is critical for good blade performance and maximum blade life.  A properly installed blade will have uniform, balanced contact with the anilox roll.  When a blade is properly aligned, light pressure with the roll is all that’s needed to produce a consistent wiping action and deliver the best metering results.

When a blade is not properly aligned, its contact with the anilox roll is not even along the surface of the roll.  When this happens, too often the operator will crank down the blade to achieve contact along the full length of the blade.  This results in excessive pressure on parts of the blade, causing accelerated blade and anilox roll wear and diminishing coating quality.

Installing the Blade to Ensure Proper Alignment

Step 1:  Clean the surface that the blade will rest on and insert the blade firmly against the blade stops. 
Step 2:  Tighten the blade clamp beginning in the center and work towards the edges.  Do not over-tighten the clamps or the blade may buckle.

To prevent problems arising from excessive blade pressure, blade pressure should never be increased to resolve issues relating to improper blade alignment.  If the blade is properly aligned, the minimum pressure required to wipe the surface of the anilox roll cleanly should be used to ensure maximum blade life and coating quality. 

Click here to download a doctor blade installation guide