Non-Destructive Elemental Analysis of Raster Roller Damage Using X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy

Despite numerous methods to optimise their operation and parameters, anilox rolls are subject to rapid wear during use and due to improper cleaning processes. Therefore, regular diagnosis is needed. In this study, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis based on Fe and Cr was used to determine the elemental compositions of raster cylinder coatings. Due to the layered composition of the anilox roll, where Cr2O3 coating is applied on the iron core, evaluation of the composition of the roll surface can be used to detection of anilox damage. A portable XRF apparatus was used to identify selected elements even at low concentrations of <1%. In this work, it was proved that XRF can be a preliminary, rapid method for assessing the technical condition of an anilox cylinder. The XRF technique can be safely used in non-destructive chemical analyses of the anilox rollers' condition in flexographic printing technology, and chemical information that aids in their use may be routinely obtained, thus enabling high-quality printing. This is a pioneering study in which the XRF spectroscopy technique was successfully used to anilox roll condition assessment.