drukcylinder

A drukcylinder, or printing cylinder, is a cylindrical component in a printing press that participates in the transfer of ink and the formation of an image on a substrate. Depending on the press configuration, different cylinders perform different roles, such as holding a printing plate, carrying a blanket, or pressing the paper against the image carrier.

In letterpress and offset printing, the press employs several cylinder types. The plate cylinder holds the printing plate and receives ink from the inking system. The blanket cylinder is rubber-covered and carries a blanket that transfers the inked image to the paper. The impression cylinder presses the paper against the blanket or plate cylinder to effect contact and transfer during printing. In gravure or rotogravure presses, engraving cylinders carry the image to be printed directly from the etched cells on the cylinder surface.

Construction and materials typically include a steel core with a hardened or chrome-plated surface to resist wear. The outer diameter is machined to precise tolerances to fit with adjacent cylinders, and the cylinders are mounted on bearings that allow smooth rotation. Drive is usually by gears or belts synchronized with other press components, ensuring consistent inking, impression, and sheet travel.

Maintenance focuses on keeping the surface in good condition and ensuring alignment. Regular cleaning of ink residues, inspection for runout and wear, and re-chroming or resurfacing when necessary help maintain print quality and press reliability. Proper lubrication of bearings and correct impression settings reduce defects such as ghosting, double impression, or excessive wear. Druckcilinders are essential for reliable operation across a wide range of commercial, packaging, and newspaper printing applications.