Role of Hot Air Generators in Rotogravure 8-Colour Printing
The rotogravure printing process is widely used in flexible packaging, food wrappers, decorative laminates, and other industries where high-quality, multi-colour printing is required. In an 8-colour rotogravure printing machine, each colour unit applies solvent-based ink on the substrate. To achieve sharp, smudge-free prints, the ink must dry instantly before the next colour is applied.
This is where a Hot Air Generator (HAG) becomes essential.
Why Hot Air Generators Are Needed in Rotogravure Printing
- Fast Drying of Solvent-Based Inks
The hot air generator supplies a continuous flow of clean, controlled hot air that evaporates solvents quickly. This ensures each layer of ink dries before the next one is applied. - Uniform Temperature Control
Consistent air temperature (usually 120–180°C) is critical to avoid smudging, colour bleeding, or improper adhesion. - Energy Efficiency
Instead of using boilers or electrical heaters, hot air generators provide direct heating, reducing fuel consumption by 20–30%. - High-Speed Printing Compatibility
In 8-colour printing, machines run at very high speeds. The HAG ensures fast, stable drying so that production doesn’t slow down.
How Hot Air Generators Work in Printing Machines
- Fuel Combustion (Gas/Diesel/Pellet) → Heat generated in combustion chamber.
- Heat Transfer → Clean, hot air produced without contamination.
- Hot Air Supply → Directed through blowers and ducts into each drying chamber of the printing unit.
- Instant Ink Drying → Ensures smooth multi-colour printing without overlaps or defects.
Benefits of Using Hot Air Generators in Rotogravure Printing
- Faster drying = higher printing speed
- Better print quality with sharp, accurate colours
- Reduced ink wastage due to smudging
- Lower operating cost compared to electrical heating
- Eco-friendly when using pellet-fired hot air generators
Industries Benefiting from HAG in Rotogravure Printing
- Flexible packaging (pouches, wrappers, bags)
- Food & beverage packaging
- Pharmaceutical packaging
- Decorative laminates & gift wraps
- Label printing
Conclusion
In rotogravure 8-colour printing, drying is just as important as printing. A reliable Hot Air Generator ensures solvent-based inks dry instantly, allowing machines to run at high speeds with superior print quality.
At MM Thermal Engineering, we specialize in customized Hot Air Generators designed for printing and packaging industries, delivering energy efficiency, precise temperature control, and long-term reliability.
👉 Contact us today to upgrade your printing line with our advanced hot air generator solutions.