Find contact person
The scoop volume is a fundamental component for characterizing the anilox roller. However, determining the volume is a complex issue and depends on various influencing factors. At Zecher, we use two different measuring methods to determine the scoop volume, which we present in more detail here.
We are leaders in the use of the VoluCheck measuring system, which has been established for decades. Here, the scoop volume is determined by means of an ink impression after the application-related doctor blade process and subsequent planimetrization.
For a broader range, we have supplemented the analysis with the Dotscope measuring system. Both measured values are shown for you on the test report.
This extension gives you the option of choosing the measurement method that best suits your requirements. Unless otherwise stated, the VoluCheck method remains the determining one for the time being.
Our volume tolerances in production are +10% up to and including a volume of 6.0 cm³/m² and +7.5% from a volume of 6.5 cm³/m².
The two measuring systems used differ in that one measures the actual scoop volume (VoluCheck) and the other the geometric scoop volume (Dotscope).
Due to different influencing factors, the two measuring systems are not necessarily comparable.
“Volume of the fluid present in the cells and on the surface of the anilox roller,
after contact with the doctor blade and before contact with the printing form”
Result depends on:
Topography of the roller surface
Roughness and surface tension of the roller surface
Rheology and surface tension of the fluid
Squeegee process
“Geometric volume of the cells under the roller surface (web support)”
Result depends on:
Topography of the roller surface
Calculation algorithm
Cell geometry and web portion
With VoluCheck, a defined quantity of standardized test ink is applied to the anilox roller surface using a laboratory pipette. An application-oriented doctoring process is then carried out and an impression of the measuring point is taken. Special software then determines the actual scoop volume by dividing the amount of liquid by the surface area. This process can be carried out in parallel at several points on the anilox roller.
Features of the measuring process:
During the Dotscope analysis, the Dotscope device is placed on the anilox roller and the defined magnification and measurement settings are called up in the software. By varying the focus, up to 150 layered images of the engraving are recorded. The algorithm creates a 3D depth model of the cell, defines the surface and calculates the theoretical scoop volume. The process is repeated at various points on the anilox roller, from which an average value is then calculated.
Properties of the measuring method:
Worldwide sales partners
Dates – Trade fairs
In order to compare two Dotscope analyses, it is essential to measure the scoop volume with identical measurement settings. We will be happy to provide you with the required setup files, including brief instructions for implementation. The setup file has been determined in extensive tests and analyses in order to define the optimum measurement conditions for each engraving type and ruling of a Zecher anilox roller and to make measurement results comparable. Please send a short email to Sven Krause: s.krause@zecher.com.
A detailed list of the configuration and lens settings can be found here: Configuration and objective selection Dotscope.
Our research and development department works daily on optimizing printing processes, simplifying anilox roller inspections and extending the service life of your anilox rollers through surface coatings. This applies to our chrome anilox rollers and ceramic anilox rollers as well as our printing cylinders. You too can rely on over 75 years of experience in the anilox roller industry and have your anilox roller inspection carried out by an expert!
