One thing that you must always avoid is doing a shoddy job when laser engraving. That because the results will be seen when the actual printing starts on the bravura machine. So, if you are about to start a laser engraving gravure cylinder, what are the best ways to go about it?

Well, there are several things that you need to have in mind. These are the steps that you need to follow to ensure that you are getting the best out of the engraving work. In this post, we are going to provide you with some of the best tips:

The Right Cylinder Size

Start with checking the laser engraving gravure cylinder’s size and if the machine can handle it. There are many sizes of gravure cylinders, and the laser engraving machine can handle not all of them. To avoid wasting time, you need to start by checking the size of the cylinder. Check the length and the circumference of the cylinder. If the machine can engrave it, you can now go ahead with the rest of the steps.

Clean the Cylinder

Considering that this is the gravure cylinder that you use most of the time, it still remains in the previous printing. So, you need to have the previous plates removed, and the paint is cleaning off. There are many petroleum-based solvents that are used for the cleaning of the cylinders, including thinner and many others. Make sure that the cylinder is sparkling clean.

Attach Plates

Now that the laser engraving gravure cylinder is clean and free of particles attach the plates on it. Precision is key when it comes to placing the engraving plates on the cylinder. Otherwise, you might end up doing a shoddy job if the plates are not properly placed. Make sure that the rubber plates or whichever material you are using are attached firmly to the cylinder surface.

Engrave the Cylinder

With the cylinder ready with the plates, place it in the laser engraving machine. Make sure that the machine is not powered on when placing the cylinder. Once you have confirmed everything is ok, and the laser gun is in the right position, place the lid to cover the cylinder. Then power on the machine, set the software, and start engraving. Protect your eyes from the laser light when checking how the engraving is coming on.