FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Anilox Metering Technology Managing Director Steve Jacombs answers some of the most commonly asked questions about Anilox Metering Technology and the Anilox System.
How Does Anilox Work?
The Anilox System works by precisely metering the amount of Lacquer onto the Rollers thus saving on wastage. The Chamber Ends are sealed to avoid leakage. The lacquer is pumped into the Chamber via an In-feed pipe and the use of Doctor blades filters the lacquer out onto the Anilox Roller where it coats the sheet being passed through. The Rollers have been specially engraved to hit the lower end of your Filmweight target, again saving on wastage whilst enhancing the quality of the sheet. With the Introduction of Quick Wash Up to your Anilox System downtime for cleaning can be reduced to only 5 minutes, which again saves on costs for your Company.
Why should I choose AMT?
Anilox Metering Technology Managing Director Steve Jacombs designed the original Anilox System for the Metal Decorating Industry in the 1980’s and is a world expert in the field. Company Technical Director Peter Gallagher has provided the drawings for over 300 Anilox Systems worldwide. We are the only Company within the industry who can supply Lightweight Anilox Rollers as well as the Traditional Steel Rollers. Independent research carried out shows that by using an Anilox Metering Technology Conversion the CPK value on the Sheets increase substantially. When using Anilox Metering Technology you get a quality, friendly, professional service.
Is An Anilox Metering System easy to use?
An Anilox Conversion by Anilox Metering Technology has a lot less operator involvement than on a traditional unit as the engraved Anilox Roller determines the Filmweights. Also, the invention of the Anilox Metering Technology Quick Wash-Up System reduces downtime on the Coating Line and because of the precision engineering interchangability is easy. This makes an Anilox System easier and simpler to operate than Conventional Units.
Is Anilox proven?
Yes,Within the Metal Decorating Industry there are well over 400 Anilox Systems Currently in use. Anilox is a tried and tested system and here at Anilox Metering Technology we are constantly updating and adding to the System through our Excellence in Anilox Programme.
Is a 40% saving really achievable?
In short YES, independent tests carried out on Anilox Installations show that savings of up to 40% are indeed possible when using an Anilox Metering System from Anilox Metering Technology. This is best achieved by using Spot Coating on the Large Rollers, this technology is exclusive to AMT.
What is delivery time?
Shipping time from receipt of order and deposit is between 10-12 weeks. The reason for this is that every Anilox System is custom designed and engineered to your exact specifications. This makes each and every Anilox System supplied by AMT unique and bespoke engineered to suit the customer.
How long does it take to install?
AMT allow 2/3 days for installation and commissioning of the Anilox Metering Conversion. Our engineers will also stay after the installation to run tests and ensure that the Unit runs to it’s full potential. Comprehensive training for all your operatives will be provided and the will be time to answer any questions that you may have.
What is a Lightweight Anilox Roller?
Lightweight Anilox Rollers are exclusive within the industry to AMT. These Rollers are up to 80kgs lighter than Steel Rollers and we guarantee that they offer the same performance as their Steel counterparts. The Rollers are engraved in the same way as Steel Rollers, however the inside is manufactured using hardened Plastic and a specialised foam. An interchangeable internal shaft is used, this shaft is compatible with all rollers of the same size and changeover time for these Rollers is minimal. By looking at the Testimonials section of the website you will be able to see what a selection of Companies using this technology think.
I already have Anilox, can I update it?
In the world of technology things are constantly being improved. Here at Anilox Metering Technology things are no different. Quick Wash Up and Lightweight Rollers are both new developments and both are exclusive to AMT. Anyone not having this technology can indeed upgrade. We will retro-fit onto any Anilox System, no matter what it’s make or model. Our Research and Development team are constantly looking at ways to improve the System and the services we offer even further.
What Guarantees do you offer?
Here at Anilox Metering Technology we are so convinced of our product that we guarantee to hit your target Filmweight or we will supply a new Roller free of charge. All our products have to pass our extensive Excellence in Anilox inspections before we allow them to leave the Factory and in the very unlikely event of dis-satisfaction with any of our Products we will replace them free of charge.
Do I have to pay for it all at once?
Anilox Metering Technology offer a range of payment plans to suit the client and these can be discussed in a pre-order meeting. We will do our best to accommodate the client’s needs and requests on payment scheme.
What is Spot Coating?
Spot Coating is where Lacquer is only applied to the sheet exactly where it is needed. The large Lightweight Anilox Roller comes with a bespoke design to suit the requirements of a specific job. There is no lacquer wastage as the areas which do not need to be Coated aren't coated. It is also possible to achieve multiple Filmweights on the same sheet pass with the development of Differential Spot Coating. This is particularly useful for any Company manufacturing Peel off ends as savings could top 50%. These innovations are exclusive to AMT and really can revolutionise the Metal Decorating industry.
Should you have any questions on the Anilox Metering System or indeed about us then please don’t hesitate to email david@aniloxmt.com who will be delighted to help.