Gravure printing units for printing onto substrates by a gravure printing method

Abstract

Recess printing units are usable for printing on a substrate and using associated methods for operation. The recess printing units comprise an intaglio printing cylinder, which provides an image-forming pattern of recesses on its circumference; and an inking unit for applying ink to the pattern of recesses that are provided on the intaglio printing cylinder. The inking unit comprises a first inking unit cylinder which has, in a region of its lateral surface, recesses corresponding to the recesses in the intaglio printing cylinder and to which recesses ink can be supplied by an ink application device in the region of an application point lying on the circumference of the first inking unit cylinder. A second inking unit cylinder cooperates with the first inking unit cylinder and has, in a region of the lateral surface of the second inking unit cylinder, elevations corresponding to recesses in the intaglio printing cylinder or raised regions corresponding to regions of the image-forming pattern of recesses on the intaglio printing cylinder, which regions comprise recesses. The ink application device also comprises, on at least a downstream side of the application point, with respect to the operating direction of rotation of the inking unit cylinder comprising the recesses, a retaining device in the form of a doctor blade or an ink knife. The second inking unit cylinder comprises, on a lateral surface thereof, elevations corresponding to engraving on the intaglio printing cylinder.