Gravure Multi‐Copy Printing

Abstract

Abstract Gravure , also known as rotogravure , is an intaglio (from the Italian word “intagliare” meaning to engrave) printing process. The intaglio printing processes are characterized by printing plates (image carriers) images with have been etched or engraved into a hard surface. To print from an intaglio image carrier, the recessed images must be flooded, or filled with ink and the surface of the image carrier must be cleared of ink, usually by a metal wiping blade known as a “doctor blade.” The paper or other substrate is pressed against the intaglio image carrier, and the resulting contact between substrate and ink‐filled image areas causes the ink to transfer from the image carrier to the substrate. Gravure printing has evolved from early intaglio printing processes, and has been adapted to a rotary printing process capable of higher resolution, higher speeds, and greater production capacity than the traditional intaglio processes. The primary differences between gravure and printing from a conventional intaglio plate involve the type of ink used for each process and the variation of the image carrier. The gravure printing process utilize much more fluid, low viscosity ink. This ink has been adapted to dry quickly on a variety of substrates. The gravure printing process is currently the third most common process used in the United States and the second most commonly used process in Europe and Asia. Three distinctly different market segments use the gravure process: publication, packaging, and specialty. Gravure printed publication products include magazines, Sunday newspaper supplements, catalogs and newspaper advertising inserts. Gravure packaging presses are designed to handle the specific substrates used in the packaging industry. Gravure‐printed packaging products include folding cartons, usually printed on paperboard, flexible packaging, usually printed on polyethylene or polypropylene, and labels and wrappers. The most interesting and diverse segment of gravure printing is known as the product or specialty segment e.g., wallcoverings, gift wrap, vinyl flooring, etc. The strength of gravure derives from the simplicity of operation—fewer moving parts. This allows for a more stable and consistent production process.