Fluid Movements

In addition, the constantly recirculating chambered doctor blade system requires only a few ounces of fluid for start-up, leaving it less expensive to operate than a two-roll system, Burie adds. More efficient use of inks or coatings also makes clean up and maintenance faster, he says.

Chambered systems have even helped solve peripheral press design challenges. They have been the standard for some time on central-impression flexo presses, says Allison, due to the need to doctor and contain ink on the up and down sides of the CI drum. What's more, he points out many newer automated or semi-automated wash-up systems depend on the chamber to act as a cleaning device as well as an inking device.