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Gravure cylinder
Also known as: engraved cylinder, gravure printing cylinder, cylinder cost
A gravure cylinder is a copper-plated steel cylinder engraved with tiny ink cells, one per colour, used in rotogravure printing.
A gravure cylinder is the image carrier used in rotogravure printing. A steel base is copper-plated, the image is engraved as tiny cells by diamond stylus or laser, and the surface is chrome-plated for durability. One cylinder is needed per colour.
What drives the cost
The number of colours (including white and varnish), cylinder width and circumference all affect price. The initial investment is much higher than for flexo plates.
Why it is worth it
Chrome-plated cylinders last a long time and give very consistent results across repeat orders, which matters for high-volume brands.
After a run, cylinders are cleaned, protected and stored with the job number. Worn cylinders can be stripped and re-chromed, and the copper base can be re-machined for a new engraving, which is cheaper than making a new cylinder body.
Tips
- Keep frequently changing text (ingredients, barcodes) in a single colour, usually black, so only one cylinder needs re-engraving.
- Share common colours across SKUs where possible.
- Agree on cylinder ownership and storage in writing.
Frequently asked
Can I move my cylinders to another printer?
Sometimes, but only if ownership is agreed and the other press accepts the same cylinder dimensions. Clarify this when ordering.
Why does changing one word cost so much in gravure?
The cylinder carrying that text has to be re-engraved, which is a significant one-off cost.
Related terms
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