What Is a Rotogravure Printing Machine?
A rotogravure printing machine is a specialized intaglio printing machine renowned for its ability to produce high-quality prints. This type of printing machine is particularly effective for projects requiring fine detail and color accuracy.
In rotogravure printing, the process involves using cylindrical metal plates (rolls), typically made of copper or chrome. The cylinder’s surface is intricately engraved with cells that hold ink. A doctor’s blade then efficiently removes the excess ink, leaving it only in the engraved areas. This technique enables the creation of detailed shades and lines, depending on the engravings’ presence, depth, and size.
The machine uses roll-shaped printing paper, which passes between the engraved cylinder and a pressure roller to transfer the ink onto the paper. Separate cylinders are used for each ink color, layering the colors to produce full-color images. Rotogravure printing machines were particularly popular for high-quality prints like magazine photos before the widespread adoption of offset printing.