Why proper cleaning of press parts matters

Cleaning your press parts regularly and effectively is essential for maintaining print quality, reducing downtime, reducing parts piling up and extending the lifespan of your equipment. With various cleaning methods available, it's important to choose the right one based on your ink type, workflow, and safety considerations.

Explore the three primary automatic cleaning solutions for press parts—solvents, alkaline liquids, and alternative liquids—to help you make an informed decision also read 5 key benefits of automating your cleaning of press parts. Whether you need to clean ink trays, buckets, hoses, doctor blades, chambers, ink stations, or other various parts, Flexo Wash can help you find the best cleaning solution.

Cleaning with Solvents

Solvents are a widely used cleaning solution for press parts, especially for removing solvent-based inks. They provide fast and thorough cleaning but come with safety and regulatory considerations.

Solvent-based cleaning can be convenient if your production already involves solvent use. However, businesses must consider space requirements and safety measures to comply with industry standards.

 

Pros and Cons of cleaning with solvents

Highly effective for cleaning solvent-based inks
❌ Requires an ATEX-compliant storage area for flammable substances

Cleaning with Alkaline Liquids

Alkaline liquids are powerful cleaners designed to remove tough stains from press parts, particularly when dealing with 2K inks, adhesives, and coatings. These solutions work well with both water- and solvent-based inks, making them a versatile choice.

Alkaline cleaning liquids offer a cost-effective and efficient solution but may require additional precautions for safe use.

 

Pros and Cons of cleaning with alkaline liquids

Effective for difficult inks and adhesives
❌ Requires specialized handling procedures

Cleaning with Alternative Liquids

For businesses prioritizing safety and environmental concerns, alternative liquids provide a non-corrosive, non-evaporating solution for cleaning press parts. They improve working conditions by reducing hazardous exposure.

While alternative liquids are a great option for safer operations, they may not be as strong as solvents or alkaline liquids for removing stubborn ink residues.

 

Pros and Cons of cleaning with alternative liquids

Safe, eco-friendly, and easy to handle
Less effective for very difficult inks and adhesives

Parts washer for your needs

Do you struggle to keep your doctor blade chambers, ink trays, or other press parts clean? Do you work with different types of inks or varnishes that require a specific cleaning solution? 

Our fully automatic washing units are designed to simplify your daily operations. We customize every solution to match your specific needs—so you get the most effective cleaning possible. No matter what press parts you have or what requirements you have. We always custom build the unit for your specific needs because we want to provide you with the best cleaning solution:

“We think that when a customer is making an investment in one of our automatic parts washers, they should have the possibility to modify or customize the machine to fit their exact needs” says our Technical Manager, Flemming Kirkeby.

How do you currently handle cleaning of your press parts?

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What to know about ATEX

Handling solvent-based inks and cleaning liquids in the printing industry requires strict safety measures. At Flexo Wash, we offer cleaning solutions designed to support safe and efficient operations in environments where explosive atmospheres may occur.

We provide ATEX-compliant cleaning systems, ensuring a secure cleaning process that prevents ignition risks and protects both equipment and employees.

Test your knowledge or read our blog: Why move from solvents to alkaline cleaning liquids 

 
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