page_title: Anilox
section_title: Roll manufacture and specification
hierarchical_section_title: Anilox / Roll manufacture and specification
caption_attribution_description: English: Optical microscope true-color image of the hexagonal cells (dimples) engraved into the surface of an anilox roll. Each cell is about 100 microns across. Image taken using an Olympus OLS4100 confocal laser scanning microscope at 432x magnification.
context_page_description: In printing, anilox is a method used to provide a measured amount of ink to a flexographic printing plate. An anilox roll is a hard cylinder, usually constructed of a steel or aluminum core which is coated by an industrial ceramic whose surface is engraved with millions of very fine dimples, known as anilox cells. In the printing process, the anilox roll is coated in a precise layer of ink that is then transferred to the raised portions of the printing plate. The number, size, and geometry of the anilox cells vary and will determine the amount of ink that the anilox roll delivers to the plate.
context_section_description: Anilox rolls were originally made using a process of mechanical engraving, utilizing hardened steel tools of various cell counts and cell shapes diamond pecking machine, but modern rolls are laser engraved.
  The characteristics of an anilox roll determine the amount of ink that will be transferred to the plate: angle of the cells, cell volume, and line screen. A 60 degree angle ensures maximum density in a given space. Lower volume makes for less ink. Low line numbers will allow for a heavy layer of ink to be printed, whereas high line numbers will permit finer detail in printing. Both cell volume and line screen are closely correlated.   
  The rolls are often specified by their line screen, which is the number of cells per linear inch. These often range from around 250 to upwards of 2000, though the precise numbers vary by manufacturer. Most rolls sold are within 800 LPI, although a spike in demand for those with 800–1200 lines has been seen. 
  Anilox rolls are almost always designed to be removed from the press for cleaning and for swapping out with different line screen rolls.
  See above: Anilox rolls are properly specified by cell volume for the required print application.
  Lower volumes = thinner ink films for the highest quality process printing.
  Higher volumes address combination, screens, line work, solid coverage and coating applications.
  In virtually all printing applications with various print requirements, one volume will not print all to the highest quality. Limited print stations generally call for a compromise between the highest quality graphics and color.
  There are many variables to consider when specifying an anilox roll beyond the print requirements, such as; substrate, ink system, plate material, plate mounting tape, press speed, drying capacity,...., etc.
  Best course of action is to consult suppliers of all these components for proper engraving specifications from their experience.
caption: Optical micrograph of anilox cells. Each cell is about 100 μm across.
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