As packaging printers push for higher speeds, finer details, and consistent quality, the demands placed on doctor blades are growing more stringent than ever. Doctor blades play a critical role in controlling ink distribution and ensuring print quality across various substrates, particularly in gravure and flexographic printing processes.
High-performance steel matters
At the heart of a reliable doctor blade is the steel it’s made from. Our doctor blade steels are designed to deliver maximum performance in modern printing processes, with a focus on wear resistance, straightness, and dimensional control.
We offer a wide range of stainless and carbon steel grades specifically developed for doctor blade applications. These materials are characterized by excellent wear resistance, a uniform microstructure for consistent performance, tight dimensional tolerances, and consistent straightness, all critical for precise blade contact in the printing process. The result is extended blade life, improved print quality, reduced downtime, and lower overall cost per run.
Engaging with the industry
During the China Qingdao Gravure Printing Industry Expo 2025, held from July 7 to 9 at the Qingdao International Convention Center, we showcased our Alleima® Print series, including grades such as 20C, 20C2, 7C27Mo2, 13C26, and XP — at booth A2-S24.
With over 600 exhibitors and 20,000 professionals attending, the event provided an ideal platform to connect with printing experts from across the value chain. Visitors showed particular interest in our high-tensile steel strip grades like Alleima® 20C2 and 13C26, known for their unique combination of strength and edge stability — qualities that are critical in high-speed printing environments where consistency and durability are non-negotiable.
These material characteristics help both blade manufacturers and printing plants enhance production efficiency, improve quality, reduce waste, and optimize costs.
Our technical team discussed real-world application challenges and provided insights into how the right material selection can help address increasingly complex production demands.
A partner in performance
Whether for packaging, decorative, or security printing, our steel solutions enable cleaner doctoring, fewer blade changes, and improved control, ultimately supporting printers in achieving higher productivity and quality output.
We appreciate everyone who visited our booth and shared their insights. For those who missed the exhibition or want to learn more about how Alleima® print materials can improve your blade performance, contact us to speak with our experts or to request technical data and samples tailored to your specific needs.