What materials can a rotogravure printing machines print on?

Rotogravure printing, also known as gravure printing, is an industrial printing technology renowned for its high-speed and high-quality capabilities. This method uses engraved metal cylinders to transfer ink from recessed cells onto a substrate. Because of its unique printing principle, gravure presses can handle a wide variety of materials, extending far beyond traditional paper.

Flexible Packaging Materials

In the flexible packaging sector, rotogravure printing is almost indispensable. It can perfectly print on various flexible materials, including:

• Plastic films: Such as oriented polypropylene (BOPP), polyethylene (PE), and polyester (PET). These films are commonly used for food packaging, snack bags, candy wrappers, and pet food bags. Rotogravure printing ensures clear, highly saturated images on these smooth, non-porous surfaces, and maintains ink durability.

• Laminates: Multi-layer laminated materials combine the benefits of different films. Rotogravure printers can accurately print on each layer, which is crucial for producing functional packaging like vacuum-sealed bags, barrier pouches, and liquid cartons.

Paper and Cardboard

While offset and flexographic printing are also common for paper, rotogravure printing machines offer unique advantages when dealing with specific types of paper:

• High-gloss and coated paper: Rotogravure printing can produce exceptional gloss and color saturation, making it ideal for high-end magazine covers, art books, and product catalogs.

• Security paper: Banknotes, stamps, and some high-value securities are often printed using rotogravure because the engraved cells create a unique tactile and visual effect that is difficult to counterfeit. The fine lines and ink thickness are central to its anti-counterfeiting function.

• Labels and packaging board: For high-volume, high-quality printing of labels and cardboard boxes, rotogravure is an efficient choice.

Other Specialty Materials

In addition to the common materials mentioned above, rotogravure printing technology can be applied to more specialized fields:

• Wallpaper and decorative materials: In wallpaper production, gravure printing machines can continuously and stably print complex patterns onto wide substrates, ensuring that the design on every roll is perfectly aligned.

• Flooring and laminates: Rotogravure is also used to print wood grain, stone patterns, or other designs on decorative paper, which is then laminated onto wood flooring or furniture surfaces to give them an aesthetic finish.

• Cigarette packaging: Rotogravure printing plays a key role in the production of cigarette packs, as it can precisely print brand logos, warning labels, and various security features.

In summary, rotogravure presses are the preferred choice for many industries because they can handle a diverse range of complex materials. From soft plastic films to rigid cardboard and special security substrates, gravure printing technology provides powerful support for modern packaging and printing industries with its unparalleled print quality, high speed, and stability.