Komori G40 Wash-up Blade

Wash-up Blade

1. Material Composition

Polyurethane (PU): Noris wash-up blades are made from high-quality polyurethane due to its durability, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion and chemicals.

Specialized Coatings: Some blades may have additional coatings to enhance performance, such as improved ink resistance or reduced friction.

2. Hardness (Durometer)

Wash-up blades typically have a hardness ranging from 70 to 90 Shore A.

Softer blades (lower Shore A) are more flexible and better suited for delicate cleaning tasks.

Harder blades (higher Shore A) are more durable and effective for heavy-duty cleaning.

3. Blade Dimensions

Thickness: Usually ranges from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, depending on the application.

Width: Varies based on the size of the printing cylinder or anilox roll.

Length: Customizable to fit specific printing equipment.

4. Edge Profile

Square Edge: Standard edge for general cleaning tasks.

Beveled Edge: Provides a sharper edge for more precise cleaning, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Rounded Edge: Reduces the risk of damaging the printing cylinder or anilox roll.

5. Chemical Resistance

Noris wash-up blades are designed to withstand exposure to:

Solvents (e.g., alcohols, acetates, and ketones).

Inks (water-based, solvent-based, or UV-curable).

Cleaning agents used in the printing process.

6. Durability and Wear Resistance

High-quality wash-up blades are engineered to resist wear and tear, even with frequent use.

They maintain their shape and effectiveness over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

7. Flexibility

The blade must be flexible enough to conform to the surface of the printing cylinder or anilox roll, ensuring thorough cleaning without causing damage.

8. Applications

Flexographic Printing: Used to clean anilox rolls and printing plates.

Gravure Printing: Cleans engraved cylinders.

General Printing Maintenance: Removes ink buildup and debris from various printing components.

9. Performance Factors

Cleanliness: Effectively removes ink and debris without leaving streaks or residue.

Precision: Ensures consistent contact with the surface for uniform cleaning.

Compatibility: Works well with different types of inks and solvents.

10. Environmental Considerations

Some wash-up blades are designed to be eco-friendly, using materials that are recyclable or biodegradable.

They may also be compatible with low-VOC (volatile organic compound) solvents, reducing environmental impact.

11. Cost and Lifespan

Wash-up blades are relatively affordable but vary in cost depending on material quality and size.

Their lifespan depends on usage frequency, the type of ink and solvents used, and the blade's hardness.

Summary

A wash-up blade is an essential printing consumable characterized by its durability, flexibility, chemical resistance, and precision. Proper selection and maintenance of the blade are crucial for ensuring optimal print quality and extending the life of printing equipment. When choosing a wash-up blade, consider factors like hardness, edge profile, and compatibility with your printing process.