Abstract: A roller cleaning system includes a pad disposable against a roller for cleaning the surface of the roller when the roller is rotated. The pad is supported in a frame which may be stationary or mounted for translation so that the pad may traverse a length of the roller while cleaning the roller surface. The pad may be further provided with an actuator for urging a portion of the pad against the roller at an additional force. The frame has a first portion disposed at a fixed distance from the surface of the roller and a second portion carrying the cleaning pad, the second portion being pivotable from the first portion about an axis parallel to the axis of the roller. Means are included for measuring torque exerted on the pivot, which torque is indicative of frictional drag on the cleaning pad. In a preferred embodiment, a piezo-electric strain gauge disposed between the frame portions is connected in a feedback loop with a controller and the pad actuator.