Doctor Blades for Narrow Web Printing
What is Narrow Web Flexographic Printing?
In narrow web flexographic printing, a doctor blade wipes excess ink from the anilox roll so only the correct amount of ink transfers to the printing plate, ensuring clean dots and consistent color, especially during high-speed runs. Choosing the right blade — such as TruPoint® PolyLam XL with MicroTip™ technology — improves ink control, reduces anilox wear and scoring, enhances pressroom safety, and delivers reliable performance with white inks, primers, and coatings compared to traditional steel blades. Proper blade selection also helps minimize downtime, maintain stable print density, extend anilox life, and improve overall press efficiency.
What does a doctor blades in narrow web printing do?
In narrow web flexographic printing, a doctor blade meters ink by wiping excess ink from the anilox roll so only the correct amount transfers to the printing plate. This process ensures clean dots, consistent color, reduced anilox wear, and stable print quality at high press speeds.
Why is blade choice important?
The right blade improves ink control, reduces anilox scoring and wear, enhances pressroom safety, and minimizes press stops by stabilizing print density and lowering maintenance.
Why Use Polymer Doctor Blades in Narrow Web Printing?
TruPoint Polylam XL doctor blades are preferred in narrow web printing because they:
-
Deliver more consistent metering than steel
-
Reduce anilox damage and scoring
-
Improve pressroom safety
-
Perform reliably with white inks, coatings, and primers




