Apex Academy

Revolutionizing Offset Coating: Why GTT from Apex is the New Standard

How Apex International’s Patented Engraving Improves Offset Coating by Eliminating Orange Peel and Pinholing, and Reducing Downtime

Offset printers understand the delicate balance between visual impact and production efficiency, especially when it comes to coatings. A single flaw in application can turn a premium job into wasted material and lost revenue.

conv vs gttBut what if you could eliminate the guesswork, reduce coating consumption, and achieve flawless, consistent results, all while improving your bottom line?

Welcome to the future of offset coating: GTT Offset by Apex International—a breakthrough technology designed to deliver maximum gloss, precision, and profitability.

The Offset Coating Problem: Profits or Problems?

Inconsistent coating transfer, often seen as orange peel or pinholing, is a silent profit killer in many offset operations. While traditional hexagonal or tri-helical anilox rolls have been industry staples for years, they frequently fall short in delivering the smooth, consistent laydown required for today’s premium gloss standards. These legacy engravings tend to introduce air into the coating, causing foaming and forcing increased coating usage to compensate.

That’s where Apex comes in—with a smarter, more efficient solution.

The Apex Solution: GTT Offset & UltraCell Rolls

GTT_offset_white_logoApex International has introduced a new generation of anilox and metering rolls built specifically for the demands of the offset industry. Developed through years of research and patented technology, GTT Offset and UltraCell rolls transform how coatings are applied.

GTT Highlights:

  • Open Slalom Channel Design: Reduces turbulence and micro-foaming.
  • Patented Constant Beam Laser Engraving: Guarantees precision across every profile.
  • Plug & Play Convenience: Delivered press-ready with bearings and tooling.
  • Universal Profile Options: Choose from S, M, L, XL, or XXL based on your coating needs.
UltraCell Rolls: For companies that wish to stay with the old technology 

UltraCell_white_logoUltraCell is Apex’s proprietary laser engraving technology for anilox rolls. Using UltraMelt technology, the ceramic layer is melted after engraving, resulting in a smoother surface for superior coating laydown. The result? Fewer coating flaws, improved gloss, and maximum predictability.

All UltraCell rolls are:

  • Compatible with multiple laser geometries: Hexagonal, tri-helical, positive, and more.
  • Made from a compact ceramic with <1% porosity (no post-treatment needed).
  • Available with lightweight aluminum cores for easy handling and faster changeovers.
Wet TransferAPEX Coating Calculator: Eliminate the Guesswork

Apex offers a powerful Wet Transfer Coating Calculator to help offset printers determine the best profile or cell volume for their application. Whether you're working with UV, water-based, metallic, or specialty coatings, the tool offers data-backed recommendations to dial in your ideal transfer rate.

Try Before You Buy: The Banded Roll Test

BandedRoll-1Not sure which GTT profile to choose? Apex offers a unique Banded Roll Program for specific presses. This allows you to test different profiles (S, M, L, XL, XXL) live on your own press so you can see firsthand which delivers the smoothest finish and best gloss with your specific coatings.

Ready to Join the Offset Coating Revolution?

Offset printing is evolving. Printers seeking higher quality, lower costs, and smoother operations are turning to Apex's GTT Offset and UltraCell technologies. Don’t let outdated roll designs limit your potential.

Contact your Apex representative or visit apexinternational.com to learn more.

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