ARC System

Automated Roll Cleaning

What is the ARC System?

The Automated Roll Cleaning (ARC) System is a self-contained, PLC-controlled cleaning and safety solution designed for industrial ink printing environments. Originally developed to address operator safety concerns caused by titanium-free ink formulations and their aggressive fumes, the ARC System combines automated roll cleaning, fume containment, and integrated safety controls into a single, enclosed unit.

Installed within the machine guard, the system features a precision trolley-based cleaning mechanism that travels along the printing rolls. Unlike older sponge-based designs, the ARC System uses specialized rollers that apply even pressure across the roll surface while preventing damage in the event of a web break. Stainless steel cloth roll components further reduce the risk of contamination, making the system ideal for regulated manufacturing environments.

What Does the ARC System Do?

The ARC System automates the cleaning of printing rolls using controlled dry or wet cleaning cycles with solvents such as isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or ethanol. Solvent is evenly distributed through tubing behind a cleaning towel, ensuring consistent and effective removal of ink buildup while maintaining print quality.

To enhance process efficiency, the system can be operated manually or fully integrated with vision inspection and rejection systems. In advanced configurations, the ARC System automatically initiates cleaning cycles based on print quality rejections and can perform up to ten cleaning passes depending on ink type. Staggered cleaning schedules prevent multiple machines from going offline at the same time.

Reasons to Choose the ARC System

Safety Innovation: The ARC Systems address hazardous ink fumes and improves operator protection through automated roll cleaning.
Advanced Cleaning: A sophisticated trolley with pressure rollers distribute even pressure for superior cleaning.
Versatile: This self-contained system enables flexible dry/wet cleaning with programmatic quality-based automation.
Safety Mechanisms: Integrated switches instantly halt equipment when protective hoods open, preventing accidents and fume exposure.
Efficient Process: Automated cleaning minimizes downtime.
Networked Control: PLC-controlled system enhances safety, efficiency, and enables facility integration.

A table titled "Easy Programmable Automation Settings" lists adjustable parameters such as clean rotations, passes, overlap, wind times, solvent time, and auto cycle frequency, with sample values shown in the right column.

Operator safety is built into every function.

Integrated safety switches immediately stop the equipment if the protective hood is opened, preventing access to moving parts and exposure to fumes. By eliminating manual roll cleaning and reducing airborne solvent fumes, the ARC System significantly improves workplace safety, operational uptime, and overall product quality.

Engineered for Performance You Can Trust

Proudly made in the USA, our machines are built for simplicity and reliability, featuring a user-friendly interface, low maintenance costs, and an included toolkit. With worldwide customer support, you can trust Ackley Hartnett to provide reliable performance and help when you need it.