The Gravure Cylinder Making Process: Main Steps To Follow

The gravure cylinder making process may appear complex, but that may not be the case. Though it has a lot of technical aspects that must be addressed, the steps are not complex as it appears. For those planning to get involved in making gravure cylinders or just to learn something about it, you need to consider some things.

A proper gravure cylinder making process should take into consideration all the factors that make an ideal cylinder. In this article, we are going to look at some of the key things that make an ideal process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Cylinder Specs

The first step towards making a gravure cylinder should be identifying all the specifications that the customer has requested. You need to know the size of the cylinder that’s needed because there is a range of sizes to consider. You also need to check other elements, such as the conditions the cylinder will be used in. The product should be able to withstand such conditions. The size of the gravure cylinder should also be among the first things to consider.

Materials to Use

There is a range of materials used for the making of gravure cylinders. The base material is one of the areas you must get right. There are many materials you can use for the base, but steel remains the most recommended metal. Depending on the specifications provided, you will be able to know the quantity needed. The upper layer or engravable layers should be copper and, lastly, a protective chrome layer.

Constructing of Cylinder

With the materials ready, the next thing should be the construction of the cylinder. It is done in layers depending on the number of materials that are required. The process must be handled by a professional because all the specifications must be met. Otherwise, the quality of the cylinder will be compromised. The quality of the tools and equipment for the cylinder must also provide accurate production.

Finish Work

Once the cylinder has been made, the next thing should be the surface finishing work. Machining is very crucial for both the base layer and the copper layer. All errors or deformities are addressed at this stage. The idea is to ensure that the quality standards have been met. The gravure cylinder must be smooth, and the margin of error must be very small or negligible. Otherwise, the printing quality will be poor.