Apex International has announced the global launch of Anilox Armor, a new line of premium protective covers engineered to safeguard anilox sleeves during storage, transport, and handling. This product will be available worldwide through Apex and its regional partners beginning March 2026.

Anilox sleeves are precision-engineered components that play a critical role in delivering consistent ink and coating transfer across flexographic, coating, and other advanced printing processes. In today’s production environment, especially with the growing adoption of ECG printing, correct anilox usage is essential to minimizing downtime and maintaining print consistency.

The end-ring color identification adds significant value by allowing anilox sleeves to be quickly and accurately identified, handled, and stored. This ensures seamless recognition across all operators and shifts, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Effective protection

In addition, effective protection is vital. Damage sustained during storage or handling can compromise the engraved surface and lead to print defects, downtime, and higher operating costs. Anilox Armor covers are specifically designed to address these risks. The product safeguards converters’ anilox sleeves and extends the lifespan of anilox assets.

“Anilox Armor introduces an added layer of protection that reinforces Apex’s mission to help customers achieve maximum reliability, extended lifespan, and superior performance from their precision anilox sleeves, whether using conventional engraving or Apex’s patented GTT technology. At Apex, we are committed to ensuring our customers feel fully supported and clearly see the long-term value of partnering with a truly customer-centric supplier,” says Nick Harvey, technical director, Apex International. “We listened to what pressrooms say causes the most costly damage, and we engineered a solution that protects these critical components from impact, abrasion, and environmental stress.”

Anilox Armor protective covers combine impact-resistant composite materials with a precision-fit, air-cushioned interior. This feature absorbs shock and prevents contact damage to critical engraved surfaces. Apex specifically engineered the covers for Apex sleeves and rolls. The design ensures a secure, non-slip fit that resists inks, solvents, and cleaning agents.

Key features

• Air-Cushioned Dual-Layer Protection for impact absorption during handling and transport.
• Durable FRP Construction that resists abrasion and repeated use.
• Color-Coded Handling Rings for fast identification and efficient pressroom workflows.
• Chemical Resistance against inks, solvents, and cleaning agents.
• Reusable Design that minimizes waste and offers long-term value.

Anilox Armor reflects Apex’s decades of experience in anilox technology and its commitment to innovation across the full lifecycle of pressroom assets. By protecting engraved surfaces from common damage points, the new covers help reduce unnecessary reworks, downtime, and replacement costs.

“In many facilities, damage happens during routine movement and storage,” adds Harvey. “Anilox Armor helps address that risk proactively, so presses stay running, and high-quality print standards are maintained.”

Apex stocks Anilox Armor in standard sizes to fit commonly used sleeve and roll diameters, with custom sizes available upon request to match specific applications and workflows. Apex will showcase the product at select industry events and trade shows throughout 2026.