Abstract: A lightweight, low-cost bridge mandrel applicable to the Flexographic printing process is adapted for mounting on the outer surface of a shaft or roller. The mandrel preferably includes a thin-walled, cylindrical metal tube having an inner surface, an outer surface, and two ends defining a length. An end cap is disposed at each end of the tube, each with a central bore to receive the shaft or roller. A polymeric layer is bonded directly or indirectly to the metal tube, thereby defining a precise, desired final diameter upon which to mount a printing sleeve. The metal tube is preferably steel, though aluminum and various metal or composite alloys may alternatively be used.

Abstract: In situ lehr-roll cleaning apparatus includes a carriage supported within the space between first and second adjacent rolls, the carriage having a first set of elements contacting the surface of the first roll and a second set of elements contacting the surface of the second roll, whereby the carriage is movable back and forth along a path parallel to the rolls. A mechanism such as a rotating wire wheel disposed on the carriage is used to clean at least one of the first and second rolls as the carriage moves along the path and in between the adjacent rolls. The invention further including means for forcing the carriage away from an adjacent roll toward the one being cleaned so that the elements contacting the surface of the roll being cleaned are forced thereagainst to precisely position the cleaning mechanism relative to the surface. Means are preferably further provided for fine-adjusting the distance of the cleaning mechanism relative to the surface of the roll being cleaned.

Abstract: A metallic cylindrical mandrel is covered with short cylindrical fiber shells and is used for high temperature applications. The shells are fabricated of aluminum silicate fibers with a binder and are independent of each other to permit relative movement between the shells and the cylinder due to thermal expansion and bending.