Parallel / peripheral lines or scratches

Tiger Stripes

Take immediate action

Tiger Stripes appear as fine, parallel lines or scratches on the surface of the anilox roller. They are often visible under oblique light or in areas with heavy ink coverage.

Fine scratches on anilox rolls that negatively influence print quality
Tiger stripes on an anilox roller
Tiger stripes partially clean
Surface with different treatment (gray stripes)
Surface with different treatment (gray stripes)
How does it arise?
  • Contact between the doctor blade and the anilox roller due to doctor blade pressure, misalignment, or trapped debris.
  • It can also be caused by other contaminants such as resins, paper dust, and binders.
What to do.
  • Perform additional manual cleaning to remove any remaining deposits.
  • Check for physical damage. If there is visible damage, consider repair or restoration.
How to use it?
  1. Apply Flexoclean Anilox Aftercare directly to the affected area using a sponge.
  2. Let it soak briefly, then scrub gently.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  4. Dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth.
Recommended Product

Flexoclean Anilox Aftercare

Specialized cleaner for aggressive, periodic manual cleaning. Use with a suitable Flexoclean sponge or pad.

Cleaning Process & Results

Visible improvement after targeted manual cleaning. Any lines that remain may indicate physical damage rather than dirt.

Tip — Do the tiger stripes keep reappearing after cleaning? Check the squeegee alignment, wear, and press settings. Prevention is just as important as cleaning.

Related issues

Fine scratches on anilox rolls that negatively influence print quality
Tiger Stripes
Take immediate action

Tiger Stripes

Fine, parallel scratches on the rolling surface.

Spots
Keep an eye on

Spots

Irregular, blurry, or cloudy areas.

Lime
Keep an eye on

Lime

Round, chalky droplets arranged in horizontal lines.

Starch
Keep an eye on

Starch

A dull, tough layer that reduces cell volume.

Aluminum
Keep an eye on

Aluminum

Dull, grayish streaks or a metallic sheen.

Score lines
Take immediate action

Score lines

Thin lines running across the print or roll.

Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when using cleaning products.