What is Rotogravure Printing? A Simple Guide

Rotogravure is a popular printing method that is known for producing detailed and vibrant prints. It offers exceptional results for high-volume printing. This printing method was first invented in the 19th century and gained popularity in the 20th century with its major growth in the newspaper industry. Later, different industries started using these printing methods for diverse reasons. 

This printing method is now used for:

• Food packaging

• Decorative materials 

Rotogravure uses engraved metal cylindrical plates to transfer ink onto the material. It works perfectly well on mylar bags and produces exceptionally vibrant and photographic quality images. It produces consistent printing results making it ideal for large print runs. 

Where is Rotogravure Printing Used?

Rotogravure printing is used across different industries for different purposes. It plays an essential role in producing high-quality and vibrant prints across bulk production. Let’s see where it is used:

• Soft packaging

• Wrapping paper

• Decorative film

• Labels

• Flexible Packaging

How Does the Rotogravure Printing Process Work?

This printing process takes place on a large and continuous press. Let’s take a look at how Rotogravure printing works on mylar bags:

• The process starts with heavy steel cylinders. They are coated in soft copper for a smooth canvas for carving. High powered lasers or diamond tools carve millions of small, microscopic “cells” into a copper coated steel cylinder. 

• These engraved cells rotate through an ink fountain. These deep cells hold enough ink to produce dark tones. On the other hand, shallow cells hold lighter shades. 

• The engraved cylinder starts to rotate. The ink-covered cylinder passes under a steel blade that scrapes off the excess ink. 

• Your packaging material is then squeezed between this engraved cylinder and a rubber roller. 

• The pressure forces the ink out and leaves your design perfectly printed on the surface. 

• The printed material is passed through a high-speed drying tunnel. The hot air evaporates the liquid ink in seconds. 

• If you need multiple colors, the material is passed through a series of stations like these for each color. 

• At the end, it prints your artwork perfectly and rolls your material back up. 

• If you are printing on mylar bags, the final printed film is laminated with a barrier layer and cut into pouch shapes. 

What Are the Advantages of Rotogravure Printing Process

Once you have a deeper a understand of how rotogravure printing method works, you will be able to notice the amazing benefits it offers:

• Outstanding print quality: Rotogravure printing offers exceptionally sharp graphics. It makes the packaging look visually impactful and helps differentiate brands. 

• Exceptional color consistency: This printing method maintains consistent ink density and accurate color reproduction across bulk production. 

• Efficient printing speed: Rotogravure printing method completes high-volume tasks with shorter turnaround times. 

• Perfect Ink Adhesion: It offers excellent ink adhesion which makes it excellent for complex and laminated flexible packaging like Mylar bags. 

Final Thoughts

The Rotogravure printing method is an excellent way to improve packaging operations and has earned its reputation as a premier printing technique. It can easily produce high quality, consistent results over large print runs. It is an ideal choice for brands looking for ways to create visually striking and durable prints on mylar packaging. It continues to play an important role in the world of premium packaging and helps improve customer satisfaction. It makes the product packaging look attractive on retail shelves. 

At Print247, we help you harness the full potential of rotogravure printing. Reach out to us to create packaging that reflects your brand values and improve consumer experience. Create packaging that helps you build brand loyalty through consistent and sharp printed graphics. Let’s make visually appealing Mylar packaging.