ProductWatch: SASG’s anilox coating attachment with Tresu chamber

SASG’s anilox coating attachment is engineered to bridge the gap between traditional offset printing and high-end functional coatings. The system serves as a hybrid module that brings flexographic precision to offset lines, specifically targeting the complex layering requirements of flexible packaging, labels, and speciality cartons.

By utilising a purpose-built stainless steel and aluminium architecture, the attachment resists the corrosive properties of UV varnishes and industrial adhesives while maintaining a lightweight profile for press integration.

The attachment is powered by a dedicated servo motor and drive system, utilising a programmable logic controller (PLC) and encoder-based architecture to achieve automatic synchronisation with the host machine’s speed. This ensures that coating weight and transfer density remain constant across speed fluctuations, a critical factor for maintaining the barrier properties and aesthetic uniformity required in brand-sensitive packaging.

Central to the system’s performance is the integrated Tresu chamber doctor blade. Tresu’s pressure control technology maintains a constant, high pressure within the chamber, creating a liquid barrier that prevents air from entering the anilox cells. This eliminates micro-foaming and blisters, producing a glass-clear finish on premium cosmetic boxes and food-grade labels.

Operational efficiency is supported by an E-line clamping system, a patented tool-free mechanism for rapid doctor blade changes that minimises downtime during high-volume runs. 

A mechanical loading system provides consistent contact between the blade and the anilox roller, ensuring precise metering and extending the service life of both components. Additionally, the integrated design allows for quick swaps between engraved anilox rollers, enabling converters to switch between UV flood, drip-off, and speciality applications such as silicone or melamine-resin coatings.

In industrial packaging applications, the system facilitates the precise transfer of specialised materials, including adhesives for laminates and protective coatings for functional substrates.