Automated Gravure Cylinder Engraving First Of Kind

Using a total of four Helioklischograph K6 engravers supplied by Hell, Axel Springer is now producing gravure cylinders in an automatic production line.

Using a total of four Helioklischograph K6 engravers supplied by Hell, Axel Springer is now producing gravure cylinders in an automatic production line.

With the commissioning of the last K6, Axel Springer has brought the reinvestment program in cylinder production at its Ahrensburg site to a conclusion.

In a process controlled by a master computer, the gravure cylinders are placed in the engraver and produced without any intervention whatsoever by an operator.

All operations such as format setting, connection of the cylinders, cleaning and lubricating the cylinders, test cut, engraving, control cut and unloading the cylinder using the converter are performed fully automatically, said the company.

Within two years, the gravure printshop in Ahrensburg has been equipped with the latest processing technology and electro-plating from K.

Walter, Munich, a logistics system from Bauer, Itzehoe and engravers from Hell, Kiel.

In a cooperation agreement, Axel Springer, Walter, Bauer and Hell have developed a solution that points the way ahead for the entire industry, believes Hell.

The level of automation achieved by a gravure printshop in terms of form production is unique in the world, it added.

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