The cylinder making process follows very detailed steps, with each of them playing a critical role in defining the features of the cylinder. There are key aspects that must be put into consideration if you want to get the most out of the process.
For example, cylinder applications inform the designs and what’s needed for the manufacturing process. It forms the purpose of the process and dictates the entire process to the end.
In this post, we are going to look at the key aspects of the cylinder making process. If you want to make one, these are the considerations you need to consider:
Measurements
Once You have identified what the cylinder is for, you go to the next critical stage of finding the right measurements. This is because no cylinder is like the in terms of application and other features. The size of the printing machine and the kind of printing inform the right size. Get the measurement right, including the right diameter, length, and many others. The customer can also supply these measurements if they are looking for custom-made cylinders.
Base Material
The next important thing in the cylinder making process is the base material. This is the part that forms the body of the cylinder, and it is never engraved. Plastic, polyester, and ABA are some of the base materials being used today for cylinders. But steel is the best base material for cylinders so far. It has incredible mechanical properties making it stand out from all other alternatives. Steel is hard, strong, and can also withstand impact and heat from the laser and electronic engraving.
Copper Plating
Now with the base material done, you need to do the copper plating. This is the material that will be engraved hence the substrate in this case. Copper is readily available, and plating it on the steel surface should be done by a special electroplating machine. It will adhere to the surface of the base layer, and the cylinder will now be ready for use.
Chrome Plating
It is important that we mention chrome plating. This is a fine layer of chrome material that is applied to the copper surface. Chrome is a hard material, and plating it on copper protects the engraving layer from mechanical damages. Chrome plating can be done after the production of the cylinder to keep it safe. But it is recommended after engraving the cylinder.