Systems and methods for implementing a release film for a cleaning unit in an image forming device using digital offset lithographic printing techniques

Abstract

A system and method are provided for depositing a release layer/film on a cleaner roller in an image forming device to facilitate effective cleaning of a reimageable surface in an image forming device using a proposed variable data digital lithographic image forming architecture. A borax or other solute solution is deposited on a surface of a cleaner roller and an air knife is used to evaporate a liquid component of the solution causing the liquid to come off and a thin-film of borax or other solute to remain on the surface of the cleaner roller. The thin film layer is then dry at a point of contact with the reimageable surface to recover residual ink from the reimageable surface with the surface of the cleaner roller on top of the thin film layer. The thin film layer is re-wetted to support efficient transfer of the ink to a web.