Five Questions to Ask Before Investing in an Automatic Anilox Cleaner
Choosing the right automatic anilox cleaning system is a big investment, one that directly impacts your print quality, operational efficiency, and long-term costs. Whether you're upgrading from manual cleaning or replacing an outdated system, asking the right questions upfront can help you make a smarter, future-ready decision.
At Flexo Wash, we’ve installed over 5,000 systems in 95 countries, and we've seen firsthand how printers benefit when they align their cleaning solution with their production goals. Below are five key questions every pressroom should ask before committing to a new cleaning system.
- What is our current and future anilox cleaning volume?
Understanding your daily and long-term cleaning needs is critical to selecting a system that will scale with your production.
- How many anilox rolls do you clean per day, week, or shift?
- How much downtime does your current cleaning process create?
- Are you planning to expand capacity or add shifts in the next few years?
Why it matters: A system that’s undersized will create bottlenecks. A system that’s overbuilt may waste resources. Look for a solution that fits your current needs with the flexibility to grow.
- What is our total budget, including operating costs?
Investing in a cleaning system is about more than the purchase price. Consider the total cost of ownership:
- Initial equipment cost
- Ongoing consumables (chemicals, water, filters)
- Energy usage and utility connections
- Waste disposal and compliance
- Labor and maintenance savings
Why it matters: Some systems may appear less expensive upfront but carry high operational costs or require extensive manual oversight. Evaluate the ROI, not just the sticker price.
- What are our site’s space and utility requirements?
An often-overlooked step in the buying process is assessing your physical plant layout and available connections.
- Do you have sufficient floor space and access to the installation site?
- What electrical, water, or drainage connections are in place?
- Will additional infrastructure be needed?
Why it matters: Even the most advanced system won’t perform if it’s difficult to install or operate in your space. Flexo Wash systems are designed with flexible footprints and connection options to simplify integration.
- How will the system impact our workflow and anilox longevity?
Your cleaning system should make your life easier, not disrupt your pressroom.
- How will it fit into your cleaning schedule and press changeovers?
- Can the system be operated during production to reduce downtime?
- Is it compatible with your existing anilox materials (ceramic, chrome, etc.)?
Why it matters: Automated systems help eliminate operator variability, but not all technologies are equally gentle. Be sure your system supports safe, non-damaging cleaning that extends roll life and protects your inventory investment.
- What are the key performance metrics for this system?
Cleaning quality and speed are non-negotiable, but other factors also matter.
- Does the system deliver full cell volume recovery every time?
- How long is the cleaning cycle per roll or set?
- Are consumables required, and what type of waste is generated?
Why it matters: Consistency and repeatability are the cornerstones of modern flexo. Choose a system that delivers proven performance, backed by real data and industry references.
Final Thoughts
The right anilox cleaner doesn’t just clean rolls, it protects your print quality, reduces downtime, and lowers total cost of ownership.
At Flexo Wash, we offer both liquid and laser cleaning technologies, so you get unbiased guidance tailored to your pressroom, production goals, and sustainability priorities. No two operations are the same, and your cleaning system shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all.
Want help comparing your options? Let’s talk about your cleaning challenges and what system makes the most sense for your operation.
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