Doctor blades are an essential component of many printing and coating machines. They are used to remove excess ink or coating from the surface of the printing cylinder or anilox roll, ensuring a precise and consistent transfer of ink or coating to the substrate.

Doctor blades are typically made from high-quality steels that are hard, wear-resistant, and have excellent edge retention. The most common types of steel used for doctor blades are stainless steel and carbon steel.

Stainless steel doctor blades are preferred in applications where corrosion resistance is required, such as in printing with acidic or caustic inks. Stainless steel doctor blades are also known for their superior wear resistance and edge retention.

Carbon steel doctor blades are less expensive than stainless steel and are often used in less demanding applications where corrosion resistance is not a concern. Carbon steel blades are also preferred in applications where a softer blade is required to prevent damage to delicate substrates.

The selection of the right doctor blade steel depends on the specific application requirements and machine type. Consult with the machine manufacturer or doctor blade supplier for recommendations on the best blade steel for your application.