CI central impression flexo printing machine and rotogravure printing machine differ significantly in printing technology, print quality, production speed, and areas of use. Here are the main differences between these two printing types:

1. Printing Technology

• CI (Central Impression) Drum Printing Machine: CI printing machines have a structure where all printing units are arranged around a central drum. This design optimizes ink transfer and ensures consistent print quality. CI machines typically use flexographic printing technology.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure uses gravure printing technology. This type of machine prints using cells engraved on the printing cylinder. Each cell takes in a certain amount of ink, which is then transferred to the printing surface. Rotogravure machines are generally preferred for high-quality and detailed printing.

2. Print Quality

• CI Drum Printing Machine: CI printing machines are ideal for applying ink over large areas. The print quality is generally slightly lower compared to rotogravure, but today’s advanced CI machines can deliver high-quality prints.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure machines provide very high print quality. They are suitable for jobs requiring photo-quality printing and fine details. With high resolution and sharp colors, rotogravure stands out in terms of quality.

3. Printing Speed and Efficiency

• CI Drum Printing Machine: CI machines can operate at high speeds and are capable of printing large quantities. They offer high production efficiency, though there may be minor losses in print quality.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure machines also operate at high speeds. However, since their print quality is superior to CI machines, they are usually used for larger print jobs. Their print speed may sometimes be slightly lower compared to CI machines.

4. Areas of Use

• CI Drum Printing Machine: CI printing machines are commonly used in the packaging industry. They are ideal for large-area and wide-format printing. They are widely preferred in applications such as food packaging, labels, film, and foil.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure machines are preferred for products requiring high-quality printing. They are commonly used in magazines, catalogs, labels, carton packaging, foil, and high-end packaging products.

5. Cost

• CI Drum Printing Machine: CI printing machines generally offer a more economical solution. As they can print efficiently at high speeds, they provide cost advantages in high-volume production.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure machines are more expensive, and their initial investment is higher. However, for very large print volumes and high-quality jobs, they can optimize costs in the long term.

6. Ink Usage

• CI Drum Printing Machine: CI machines use flexographic inks, which are typically water-based or UV-based. Flexo printing is considered a more environmentally friendly technology.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure machines can use solvent-based inks. These inks dry faster and allow quicker printing, but environmental impact must be considered more carefully.

7. Low Color Transition and Color Saturation

• CI Drum Printing Machine: CI machines can provide smoother color transitions, but in multicolor prints, color saturation may be lower compared to rotogravure.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure gives better results, especially in fine details and color density. It provides higher quality in multicolor printing.

8. Usage Duration and Length

• CI Drum Printing Machine: CI printing machines are suitable for shorter production runs or smaller batches. They also have the capability for flexible production.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure machines are suitable for very high-volume productions. They can be more efficient in long-term operations.

9. Equipment and Maintenance

• CI Drum Printing Machine: Maintenance of CI printing machines is generally easier because they have a simpler structure. However, issues such as print defects and color inconsistencies may occur.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Rotogravure machines are more complex, so maintenance and repair processes can be more demanding. Nevertheless, print quality consistency is higher.

In conclusion:

• CI Drum Printing Machine: More economical and faster, suitable for high-volume and large-area printing, but print quality may not be as high as rotogravure.
• Rotogravure Printing Machine: Ideal for jobs requiring high quality and detail, but more expensive and more efficient in larger printing volumes.