Gravure Printing vs. Offset and Flexographic Printing

Introduction

Gravure, offset, and flexographic printing are all printing techniques used for mass production of printed materials. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Process

Gravure Printing:

1. Images are etched into a metal cylinder (gravure cylinder).
2. Ink is transferred to the cylinder from an inkwell.
3. Paper is pressed against the cylinder, transferring the ink to the paper.

Offset Printing:

1. Images are transferred from a printing plate to a rubber roller (offset blanket).
2. Ink is transferred from the offset blanket to the paper.

Flexographic Printing:

1. Images are transferred from a flexible printing plate to a rubber roller.
2. Ink is transferred from the rubber roller to the paper.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Gravure Printing

Offset Printing

Flexographic Printing

Applications

1. Gravure printing: Magazines, newspapers, packaging
2. Offset printing: Books, posters, business cards
3. Flexographic printing: Packaging, labels, plastic bags