C23 · Printing

Stainless Steel Plates for Printing and Media Replication Industry: Selection of 304/316L and List of 3 Parts

In the printing and media replication industry, we have organized three parts using stainless steel: commonly used 304 / 316L / 420, with thickness ranging from 0.5–20 mm.

Stainless rollers and cylinders for light industry production lines
Selection and specifications for light industrial production line components (schematic diagram; actual selection based on medium, temperature, and drawings)

Three parts and material list

Part / ComponentRecommended designationSpecification / ThicknessSurfaceFailure ModesStandards
Grinding Roll/Feeding Roll (Hard Surface)304/316LSurface 3-15mmMirror/Delicated/GlazedSolvent Corrosion + Blade Wear + Roller ScratchesGB/T 3280; Printing Industry Standards
Wet Roll/Painting Roll304Chrome CoatingRoll Surface 5-20mmNet Pattern/ChromeBlade Wear Reduces Net Hole Openings + Solvent CorrosionGB/T 3280
Nozzle/Skimmer420/3040.5–3mmHardening/LappingInk Erosion + Skimmer Blade WearGB/T 1220;GB/T 3280
Inside TableConfigurationsMaterial Selection Tips

Common Grades Used in Industry: 304 (3), 316L (1), 420 (1)

  • Consider Hardness for Wear Parts (Cutting Edges, Liners, Conveying Components)
  • Thickness Range: 0.5–20 mm
  • Thicker Sheets for Welded Structures (Heat Input and Embrittlement Concerns)

Thin Sheets for Forming (Bend Rebound and Deep Drawing Cracking)

Commonly Used Stainless Steels in Printing and Record Media Replication?
By total pages, the top 3 are: 304 (3), 316L (1), and 420 (1). For specific parts, consult media and temperature, e.g., stainless countertops require 316L when exposed to saltwater.
Which part is the easiest to have problems with?
Failure description, typically "ink squeegee/transfer roller (hard-faced)": solvent corrosion + blade wear + surface scratches; recommended grades 304/316L, face diameter 3-15mm. This condition suggests specifying media concentration, temperature, and cleaning method during the design phase.
What thickness should I select?
Thickness range in the list is 0.5–20 mm. For thin plates, consider forming and surface quality; for thick plates, welding and structural strength. Values may vary by equipment manufacturer for the same location, review your drawing or operating conditions.

Related materials and adjacent industries

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