Harper introduces new generation anilox coating system

Harper Corporation is claiming a technical breakthrough with its XLT (Xtreme Laser Technology) anilox and coating roll system. The XLT process will be available through manufacturing operations in North America, Europe and Asia by the second half of 2005, when it is anticipated that all of the firms’ laser equipment will be converted to the new technology. The total retrofit investment will exceed $4.3 million.

The Harper XLT system is the result of three years’ intense research and development dedicated to ‘creating levels of performance and line-screen counts unachievable with current laser and ceramic surface technology’, according to the company.

In addition, the team explored methods to develop an anilox roll surface that would allow a single line screen to be used on both solids and fine process work. Laboratory tests have accomplished extremely clean high line-screen counts, with cell cavities even smoother than the firm’s Platinum Laser Anilox.

The parabolic cell configuration, more pronounced with Harper’s proprietary XLT technology, also provides steeper wall angles, which enhance the life expectancy, and offer a higher ink-capacity-to-wear-ratio than that of conical cell profiles. Furthermore, the process will enhance overall consistency of each cell’s geometric properties around and across the roll, improving the converter’s experience with performance consistency from roll to roll, says Harper.