Since the first years, Böttcher has worked to improve the technology of printer rollers. Research and development leads the way for everything that happens in the company.

Ninety scientists-most of them Ph.D.’s-work in the Böttcher Lab in Cologne, Germany. In the Lab, a four-story building dedicated only to research, these scientists advance both the theoretical and applied body of knowledge in chemistry, materials science, and “rotational transfer technology,” a field in its own right. They develop improved roller technology and manufacturing processes for the printing industry, but also for textiles, plastics, steel, and other markets of the future.

Böttcher scientists are experts on the geometry of the roller system. They work to improve their understanding of the physics of rollers in operation, including factors such as pressure distribution, screw-down forces and torques. They conduct performance tests on new rollers, testing for tearing and hardness, rebound resilience, measurements of specific weight, and swelling and abrasion. They conduct and evaluate field tests and simulations to measure the performance of rollers in service.

These scientists work closely with press OEMs to develop rollers to keep up with advances in press technology. They work jointly and share findings with chemists and materials specialists from all over the world, often traveling to other major research centers and universities.

Böttcher research is driven by a long-term commitment. Some of the compounds they are experimenting with today will not be ready for commercial production for five to ten years. At the same time, they spend time listening to pressmen to help them solve their current problems and to improve current products.

Overall, the goal is to develop rubber and polyurethane compounds with ever greater performance characteristics to make Böttcher rollers run longer, cooler, with less distortion, and greater resistance to heat and harsh solvents. They also explore high-tech compounds of silicone.

The tremendous resources that Böttcher invests in research & development is what makes Böttcher the leader in roller technology. Results speak for themselves. Böttcher is always bringing out new products that solve problems in the pressroom, and developing rollers that run longer, truer, that withstand the beating they go through during millions of impressions. This is the secret of the Böttcher advantage.