If you are a packaging manufacturer, label supplier, flexible packaging converter, or printing business trying to select the right technology, the comparison between Flexo Printing and Gravure Printing can be confusing.
This guide makes it simple.
We break down both technologies in a clear, point-to-point way so you can decide what fits your production needs, international customer expectations, and investment capacity.
🟦 What Is Flexo Printing? (In Simple Words)
Flexo printing uses flexible relief plates to transfer ink onto packaging materials.
Where Flexo is commonly used
- Labels
- Paper bags
- Cartons
- Corrugated boxes
- Flexible packaging
- Film rolls
- Non-woven bags
Why global buyers prefer Flexo
- Faster job setup
- Good for short to medium runs
- Lower plate cost
- Works with water-based inks
🟥 What Is Gravure Printing? (In Simple Words)
Gravure printing uses engraved cylinders with microscopic ink cells to produce high-quality, sharp, deep images.
Where Gravure is commonly used
- Flexible packaging
- BOPP, PET, PVC films
- Food packaging
- Long-run printing
- High-quality artwork rolls
Why global buyers prefer Gravure
- Best image depth
- Best color consistency
- Ideal for high-volume production
- Long-lasting cylinders
Flexo vs Gravure – Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Flexo Printing | Gravure Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Very good | Excellent |
| Setup Cost | Low | High |
| Best For | Short–medium runs | Long runs |
| Ink Type | Water-based, UV | Solvent-based |
| Speed | Fast | Very fast |
| Cylinder/Plate Life | Moderate | Extremely long |
| Environmental Impact | Lower | Higher (solvent use) |
| Ideal Industries | Labels, corrugated, basic packaging | Flexible packaging, food packaging, films |
How Flexo Printing Works — Step by Step
- Flexible plate mounted on the cylinder
- Anilox roller transfers measured ink
- Plate presses ink onto substrate
- Web moves through drying system
- Final printed roll is rewound
Why Global Markets Choose Flexo
- Lower startup cost
- Faster plate changes
- Compatible with many substrates
How Gravure Printing Works — Step by Step
- Cylinder engraved with ink cells
- Cylinder dipped in ink tank
- Doctor blade removes excess ink
- Ink settles in engraved cells
- Impression roller transfers ink to substrate
- Printed film passes through drying systems
Why Global Markets Choose Gravure
- Superior depth, clarity, and gloss
- High-speed production for films
- Perfect for consistent repeat designs
Which Printing Technology Is Best for International Buyers?
If your business needs:
✔ High-volume production
✔ Deep and rich image quality
✔ High color strength
→ Choose Gravure Printing
If your business needs:
✔ Lower investment
✔ Faster changeovers
✔ Eco-friendly solutions
→ Choose Flexo Printing
Industries Served by Flexo & Gravure Machines (Global Demand)
- Food packaging
- FMCG printing
- Pharmaceutical packaging
- Industrial rolls
- Label manufacturing
- Shrink sleeves
- Lamination films
- Agricultural packaging
Machine Types Available for Export
Flexographic Printing Machines
- CI Flexo Printing Machine
- Stack Type Flexo Printing Machine
- High-Speed Flexo Printing Line
Rotogravure Printing Machines
- 2-Color / 4-Color / 8-Color / 12-Color Gravure
- High-speed film printing machine
- Automatic tension-controlled gravure line
How to Choose Between Flexo & Gravure – Easy Decision Points
Use this section as a final summary:
Choose Flexo if:
- You want lower cost
- You print labels or paper-based substrates
- You handle multiple short jobs
- You want eco-friendly water-based inks
Choose Gravure if:
- You print high-end flexible packaging
- You run 24×7 production
- You need perfect repeatability
- You want the best possible image quality
Why Many International Buyers Choose Indian Manufacturers
- Competitive pricing
- High-quality engineering
- Export-ready machines
- Easy availability of spare parts
- Fast installation & setup support
- Long-term service reliability
For International Inquiries
If you need Flexo or Gravure Printing Machines for export:
📧 Email: info@kewindia.com
📞 Phone: +91-8460728298