Gravure Printing

The use of combination printing/processing is not a rarity in package printing—not by a long shot. A printer that has the need could combine any of the printing processes, in addition to converting operations such as foil stamping and embossing. The value provided by combination printing is that each printing process can bring its own specific attributes to the party, says Andy Colletta, president/CEO of Nilpeter USA. “Flexography and offset printing provide the lion’s share of the coverage on a signature, including the text and four-color images,” he explains. “Rotary screen is often used to provide an opaque background prior to printing, while

Gravure printing has long been known for its high quality. According to Dean Hoss, president and CEO of Pyramid Global, in his “Why Buy Gravure” presentation at the Packaging and Label Gravure Association’s (PLGA) ninth operational conference, gravure print reproduction translates into better product appearance. Versus flexography, gravure offers higher resolution print, consistency across the print web, and repeat print-run consistency. “Gravure’s quality is hard to beat. When it’s done right, when the engravings are proper, it’s there,” says Jim Lepp, executive director of the PLGA. However, the increasing use of flexographic printing and its lower cost of production has, over time, created

ATN (Part of the DCM Group) Model Print Width (in.) Print Repeat (in.) Max. Speed (fpm) ATENA 22,26 or 30, 33.5 12.5-28 or 17-34.6 820 Write 514 on Reader Service Form J BOBST GROUP USA INC. Visit www.bobstgroup.com Model Type Width Range (in.) Max. Speed (fpm) RS 5002 High speed, high volume 31-55 1,830 RS 3003 Versatility, multipurpose 28-55 1,160 RS 4004 Short runs, quick changeover 25-65 820 RS 4000 Short runs, quick changeover 25.5-65 820 RS 1200 Cost effective, entry level 33.5-49.25 984 RS 1250 Cost effective, entry level 33.5-49.25 984 Write 515 on Reader Service Form, See Ad p. 39 J COMEXI

By combining flexo and gravure, Sonoco is able to maintain its competitive edge. By Kate Tomlinson, Associate Editor IN 1993, SONOCO'S Flexible Packaging division realized that it could offer customers the value-added products many were looking for, by expanding its strictly gravure process base. Today, with nine plants worldwide, Sonoco achieves its range of graphics by running flexo and gravure both separately and in combination. Sonoco's extensive equipment roster includes: wide- and narrow-web rotogravure presses, up to 11 stations with in-line lamination and cold/heat seal coatings; wide- and narrow-web flexographic presses, up to 10 stations with in-line lamination and cold/heat seal coatings; gravure/flexo

Gravure industry insiders tackle key issues for optimum ink transfer and reveal equipment developments aiding the cause. by Jessica Millward, Associate Editor Blade basics Though gravure printing's consistency and dependability as a printing process are well-publicized, press operators should keep a close eye on doctor blade configuration. Max Daetwyler Product Sales Manager Marty Cansler affirms, "What is often crucial for consistent print quality is the ability of the doctor blade to provide clean and even ink application during the entire print run." As he elaborates, maintaining the blade contact area is integral to controlling such print defects as hazing and color variation. Contact area