KBA has started sending anilox rollers for its Cortina waterless press users to Apex International in the Netherlands.

Twenty Cortina users account for a total of 86 towers and 688 printing units, and KBA says a typical anilox roller will last for about 200 million cylinder revolutions, with factors such as ink and blade contact pressure, the nature of the ceramic coating and the type of engraving influencing factors.

A leader in anilox and metering roller manufacture, Apex will use its patented GTT engraving geometry, where open, slalom-style channels are designed to achieve an extremely homogenous ink application while reducing wear to a minimum.

The double-walled Cortina rollers have an inner body patented by KBA, with integrated temperature regulation for fine control of ink application. Because of this, the cost of replacement makes reconditioning with new ceramic coating and laser engraving a meaningful option.

Rather than replace its own laser engraving equipment at the sheetfed factory in Radebeul, KBA has decided to outsource coating and engraving. The company says there will be no change in the process for Cortina users, with worn rollers inspected and cleaned at Radebeul.

Pictured: Apex's patented GTT anilox technology with its slalom-style engraving pattern