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GravurExchange Newsletter – October 2022

October 31, 2022

The October 2022 edition of the GravurExchange
Your source for news and events

AIMCAL R2R USA Huge Success in spite of Hurricane Ian!

The AIMCAL R2R USA Technical Conference scheduled for Sept. 26-29 in Orlando, FL was shortened to only the 26^th & 27^th before it became a mass exodus event as Hurricane Ian came ashore on the west coast of Florida and moved toward Orlando. However, there is still a lot to share as over 200 attendees enjoyed the networking, keynotes and sessions.

First it was announced the AIMCAL board approved changing the associations name to “Association for Roll-To-Roll Converters”

To learn more and why the name change was needed to reflect to full inclusion of all the diverse membership go to: AIMCAL announces name change, rebranding

2022 GAA Golden Cylinder Awards Winners announced!

Congratulations to the 2022 Golden Cylinder Winners

Category PACKAGING AND LABEL A1 Paper

Bush’s Best Flavor Fusions Baked Beans

delfort-Mundet TN Inc.

Category PACKAGING AND LABEL A2 Film-Film Lamination

Maliban Double Twist Cookies

Varna Limited

Category PACKAGING AND LABEL A4 Film-Surface/Reverse Printed

Nesquik-Chocolate Flavor

Inland Packaging

Category PRODUCT B4 Giftwrap

Grinch/Suess

American Greetings Corp.

Category PRODUCT B7 Vinyl Substrates

Cobalt

O’Sullivan Films Inc.

Category PRODUCT B8 Decorative Laminates

Raintree Mink

OMNOVA Solutions Inc.-A Synthomer Business

Category INNOVATION D1 Image Preparation (Prior to Engraving)

Clif LUNA® ECG

American Packaging Corporation

Category INNOVATION D4 Press

Advanced Register Control for Precision Printing and ECG in Gravure

Bobst Italia S.p.A.

2022 Golden Cylinder Best in Show

“Best in Show”

Bush’s Best Flavor Fusions Baked Beans

delfort-Mundet TN Inc.

Category INNOVATION D4 Press Honorable Mention

ENULEC for its ESA (electrostatic assist) Static Loop 360 system

Represented by Enulec partner for North America, Steingraeber, LLC

To read the GAA honors Golden Cylinder Award winners news release please go to: https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-s91d33d7132cb4b028861565dc0d6d14c

To view the video that was displayed at the awards ceremony go to: https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-sf7cf14f554324ccfaad7c8f50c7fc88b

The 2021- and 2022-Cylinder Society inductees were announced and the ones present were presented their lapel pin by Hubert Metzger the chair of the Cylinder Society Committee.

Congratulations to the newest members:

2021 Inductees: Prof. Robert Eller of R.I.T. and John Muehlbauer American Packaging

2022 Inductees: Dan Kyle SGS (Southern Graphics Systems), Bill Poulson Harper Corporation of America and Tony Donato GAA-Committee.

Pictured Left to right: Chris Kerscher (Executive Director of Association for Roll-To-Roll Converters), Tony Donato, Dan Kyle, John Muehlbauer, Bill Poulson and Hubert Metzger president of Chema Technologies.

AIMCAL News Video is back and can be viewed at:

(267) AIMCAL News | October, 26th 2022 – YouTube

The AIMCAL News Video’s are produced and available every two weeks go to www.aimcal.org for more AIMCAL news.

Wisconsin Printing Industry Council (WPIC)

At the September WPIC meeting (GAA-Committee supports the WPIC), Mark Fisher the President and CEO of the Council of the Great Lakes Region presented an update to the Circular Great Lakes Initiative that was launched last year and his update was titled “Circular Economy for Plastics”. The bi-national Council of the Great Lakes Region in launching the Circular Great Lakes initiative, has a mission of informing the region the actions necessary to forge a future without plastic packaging waste and litter in the region and the Great Lakes themselves. Important background data is as follows:

The bi-national Great Lakes region spans eight states, two provinces, and many First Nations.
107 million people, the 12^th largest nation in the world by population, if the region was a country.
With a GDP US$6.0T, it would equal the 3^rd largest national economy in the world.
Generates more than 50% of the cross-border trade between the U.S. and Canada every year.
52 million jobs, or one-third of the combined American and Canadian workforce.
Largest freshwater system in the world, holding 21% of the world’s and 84% of North America’s surface freshwater.
Over 11,000 miles of coastline, which equates to the distance between Chicago, Illinois and Perth, Australia.
More than 3,500 species of plants and animals inhabit the Great Lakes basin, some globally rare.
Provide clean drinking water for 40 million American and Canadian households.
Less than 1% of the waters of the Great Lakes are renewed on annual basis by precipitation, run-off and groundwater.

Many of our members have facilities in the Great Lakes region so we wanted to support the Circular Great Lakes initiative by providing the “Circular Economy for Plastics” presentation and the applications for a business to become a “Corporate Activation Partner” and for Universities and associations to become a “Knowledge Partner” available for download :https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-s6bb33461d1f84bfd9900efb582b87ff7

Gravure Days at Universities and Colleges have started.

Rochester Institute of Technolgy has scheduled their “Gravure Day” event on November 7^th. . R.I.T.’s 2022-23 “Gravure Day” theme is “Continuous Improvement”. The industry speakers include Bobst a 2022 Golden Cylinder Winner for Press Innovation and Steingraeber-Enulec Americas 2022 Golden Cylinder Honorable mention for Press Innovation both are members who support printing education. We will have a report on the R.I.T. Gravure Day from a student in next months GravurExchange.

If any University or College is planning on holding a gravure day and needs help recruiting speakers please contact Tony Donato at tdonato@gaa.org

From the October Issue of SmallBiz@EPA

Below is an article from the October 2022 issue. To download the September and October issue PDF, go to: https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-s79e4c5294ede498a8ca4719eefd0239a

Proposed Reconsideration of Fugitive Emissions Permitting Rule

On September 7, 2022, EPA Administrator Regan signed a rule proposing revisions to the Clean Air Act’s New Source Review (NSR) permitting regulations. This action would require facility owners/operators of all existing industrial facilities considered “major sources” to include “fugitive” emissions of air pollutants when determining whether a physical or operational change at their facility is a “major modification” which would need a major NSR permit before starting construction. The permit would include required emission control measures to ensure that changes at the facility would not degrade air quality. “Fugitive emissions” are emissions that could not reasonably pass through a stack, chimney, vent, or similar opening. EPA has reconsidered a 2008 rule requiring only certain types of industrial source categories to include fugitive emissions when determining whether a change is a major modification. EPA is proposing to fully repeal the 2008 rule by removing certain remaining stayed provisions of the regulations adopted in 2008. EPA also is proposing to remove a related exemption for modifications that would be considered major solely due to the inclusion of fugitive emissions.

As a result of the proposed changes, all existing major stationary sources would be required to include fugitive emissions in determining whether a project is a major modification. These changes would more effectively carry out the purposes of the NSR program to preserve and/or improve air quality and will provide greater clarity to all stakeholders. EPA will accept comment on this proposal for 60 days after the notice is published in the Federal Register. A pre-publication version of the notice, along with a summary fact sheet are available at: https://www.epa.gov/nsr/proposed-reconsideration-fugitive-emissions-rule.

The Gravure Tech Corner!

CONTROLLING INK TEMPERATURE ON PRESS

By Gary Silvers of GSP Specialties

When not controlling ink temperature on press; it’s been determined throughout the Gravure & Flexo printing industry, most printing problems occur after a few hours into a production run. During this crucial time many variables are changing; such as encountering print issues coupled with making ink or press adjustments resolving these problems.

These variables include:

Adjusting the Doctor blade due to excessive wear from too much pressure.
Solvent evaporation due to the increasing ink temperature.
Heat that is transferred from the dryer ovens to the printed stock; transfers that same heat (high web temperature) to the cylinder, then to the ink.
Increasing press speed generates more air flow around the cylinders.
Heat generated from electric ink pump motors to the ink tanks; these electric ink pumps can transfer 40–60-degree F more heat than air driven ink pumps.
Excessive impression pressure against the cylinder generates heat.
Hot ambient room temperature in the press room can contribute to the engraved cylinder and ink temperature increasing.

How do we reduce or eliminate making all these variable changes after a few hours of production running?

Eliminate the heat buildup in the ink tank that’s how!

How do we reduce or eliminate the heat buildup without sacrificing drying the printed ink on the substrate?

Cooling the ink temperature will reduce or eliminate all the variables that are creating your print problems.

I’m not saying it’s the cure all and there will still be print issues; however, I will say there will be fewer compared to what you encounter without some form of Ink Cooling Unit.

High ink temperature is a year-round issue in the press room.

When this takes place, the ink and cylinder could reach temperatures well over 105 degrees Fahrenheit. When an Aqueous or Solvent ink temperature increases over 80 degrees Fahrenheit the amines, alcohols, or solvents accelerate evaporation and cannot be replenished at the specific measurement as when it was first made. Each solvent has its own evaporation rate after it reaches 80-degreeF. This creates an imbalance in the ink while evaporating off the needed faster drying solvents first with-in the ink formula.

When the engraved cylinder’s surface temperature increases; the chrome surface will expand and contract with the change in temperature causing imperfections in the chrome surface. To help reduce these problems from occurring most printers have installed either chill rollers, compressed air-cooling units, chilled water SS cooling coils in the ink sumps or purchased chilled water Heat exchangers installing them between the ink sump and applicators.

One issue with chill water cooling is hoses on the floor leading to the cooling device and water leaking causing safety issues. Most pressmen not knowing the importance of the cooling device, will disconnect the unit and remove it all together. Some press manufacturers have started offering cooling ink sumps as an option but those can cost $50-200K depending on the press and number of units. There are cooling units on the market operated by compressed air that don’t require chilled water or electricity that are press operator friendly and safe. The cost of the compressed air-cooling system is very competitive compared to a chilled water system or other types of refrigeration systems that require electricity.

By cooling the inks reducing the temperature between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit; the advantages are outstanding. The optimum ink temperature would be 70 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit and reducing the web temperature less than 90 degrees Fahrenheit or as much as possible, without effecting the drying of the ink.

Results you will see by reducing your Ink temperature are:

Reduces cylinder wear • Reduces doctor blade wear
Helps stabilize viscosity control with less solvent reduction
Improves printability
Reduces ink & solvent usage
Reduces or eliminates soft and hard streaking, hazing, draggers, foaming, screening, dirty print, poor trapping, inconsistent print color, etc.

Water base ink with ink cooling.

Water base ink without ink cooling

• Improves gloss • Improve process printing

• Reduce ink drying in the engraved cylinder cells

• Reduced print spoilage from time spent stopping and starting press to fix print issues.

Most of these results are not always noticed immediately after the cooling devices are installed but can be monitored and the results are always the same. Printers cooling their inks encounter less printability issues; (from the above list) than printers without cooling their inks.

I recommend using Ink Cooling devices for all printers. The savings is different for each printer, depending on the number of presses and cost of downtime that occurs over a production run having printing problems. The printers I have recommended using ink cooling devices; (Refrigeration type units, Chilled water coils or heat exchangers, or compressed air-cooling units) continue to use them with excellent results.

5-gallon ink cooler for large presses.

2-gallon ink cooler for narrow web presses.

5-20 - gallon ink cooler for large presses

Investigate your Ink Cooling options there are new Ink Cooling devices for printers on the market today that will resolve these problems with a small investment. The initial investment may be a capital expenditure but the pay back in reduced press downtime due to print issues, improved print quality, reduced print spoilage, reduction in solvent and ink usage, reduced cylinder and doctor blade wear will be money well spent.

The above article can be downloaded at: https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-se4759c0a205f4b9c82d7e806b5866d1a

Gary Silvers can be reached at: gary.silvers@att.net Cell: (704) 907-4279

With the association new name also comes with new email addresses:

Chris Kerscher: ckerscher@rolltoroll.org

Tim Janes: tjanes@rolltoroll.org

Kevin Lifsey: klifsey@rolltoroll.org

Mark Spaulding: mspaulding@rolltoroll.org

Laure Lavore: llavore@rolltoroll.org

Lauren Suber: lsuber@rolltoroll.org

Alex Nevels: anevels@rolltoroll.org

The AIMCAL addresses will be active until September 2023.

New Online “Gravure Basics” Video Course available

This course and all GAA-Committee online courses along with the Gravure textbooks are all available at www.aimcal.org, click on “Resources” tab, then pick “Products” from the dropdown. You will also see all the training courses and other products that are offered by AIMCAL.

The Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee NEEDS YOUR HELP! The GAA-Committee is looking for individuals who want to become involved in the committee and its sub-committees. We need those who want to become part of the leadership team as well as those who can help with the GravurExchange, promoting the association to companies that use the gravure process, article writers, conference track topics and speaker recruitment, attending virtual meetings w/other associations, and on and on. If interested, contact Tony Donato tdoanto@gaa.org or text to 704-905-5178.

The GAA Committee reviewed the plans for the Basic and Advanced Seminars and decided it would be best to move them to June 2023. The Basic and Advanced “live” Seminars will be held at Interprint in Pittsfield, MA. Moving to 2023 will give time to the members who need to budget the training. The COVID-19 years have caused items that were routine budget lines to be left out, and time is needed to reschedule. More information will be available soon.

Converting Quarterly, the official technical journal of AIMCAL, is a great source of information and current news from members and the industry. Go to https://www.convertingquarterly.com/ to subscribe to the quarterly print magazine, the digital edition, the weekly CQ eNews…or all three.

For all the news you may have missed, go to Archived News (aimcal.org)

If you are looking for new employees or are looking for employment, we encourage you to use the new resources on the AIMCAL website: (Jobs (aimcal.org). Members may post jobs at NO CHARGE. We invite you to see how easy it is to post jobs online today. To maximize your job posting, you should also post on the GAA website at Job Openings | Gravure Association of the Americas (gaa.org)

GAA Services, Training and Products:

On-site Training/On-site Consulting:

Bob Kikkert and Mike Gaffney are ready to help with on-site and/or hybrid virtual training and consulting. Those in need of these services, please contact info@gaa.org using subject line: “Consultant Services.”

The Gravure Textbook Sale Continues:

We continue to receive orders for the Gravure Process and Technology and the Gravure Specifications and Tolerances (GST) textbooks. They can be purchased at Shop (www.aimcal.org)

Gravure Certification:

Members continue to use the online gravure training program. There are four levels of Certification training. Information and registration for all four levels are available at https://gaa.org/services/training/online-gravure-certification-training/. Special Member pricing has been established for the certifications. For pricing and to register, email info@gaa.org and use subject line: “Certification.”

Want to become a member?

Anyone interested in having their company become a member of this dynamic association of companies that are promoting the gravure process, please go to: Become a Member | AIMCAL

Questions? Contact AIMCAL Member Outreach Director Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org

GravurExchange Newsletter – September 2022

September 6, 2022

The September 2022 edition of the GravurExchange
Your source for news and events

AIMCAL R2R USA IS ALMOST HERE!

You don’t want to miss the AIMCAL R2R USA Technical Conference on Sept. 26-29 in Orlando, FL. The R2R USA is a multi-track conference plus six short courses, multiple keynote speakers, and plenty of networking opportunities. To register go to: Pricing | 2022 R2R USA (aimcal.org).

The multi-track format has something for everybody: R2R Battery Manufacturing, Capacitors, Coating & Laminating, Flexible Packaging, Gravure Printing & Coating, Nonwoven Substrate, Panel Discussions, Printed/Flexible Electronics, Reception/Exhibits, Sustainability, Vacuum Metallizing & Coating, and Web Handling. Go to: Schedule at a Glance | 2022 R2R USA (aimcal.org) to review the full multi-track agenda.

The Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee has lined up a great group of speakers for the Gravure Track to provide the gravure community with the latest in technologies and best practices.

The following items are supported by members of the Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee.

Short Course

Monday, Sept. 26

12:00 3:00 Bill Poulson, Tony Donato; Flexo 101 (Overview of the printing process)

Other Interests on Monday

3:00 3:30 New Member / First-Time Attendee Reception

3:30 4:00 AIMMy Vendor Presentations (Exhibitors)

4:00-4:30 2022 AIMCAL Awards / GAA Golden Cylinder Presentations

Presentations of interest or recruited by GAA Committee:

Printed / Flexible Electronics track

Tuesday, Sept. 27

11:00-11:30 Ben Robesin; Integrated Printing Solutions (Rotary Screen)

11:30-12:00 Hubert Metzger; How cylinder-plating technologies and methods are applicable to plating electronics

Gravure Coating & Printing Track

Tuesday, Sept. 27

1:30-2:00 Malte Tadday; Technology advancements for wide-web digital printing in the décor market

2:00-2:30 Herbert Kindermann; Integrating digital printing into the value stream

2:30-3:00 Gene Plavnik; Ultrasonic drying in converting applications

3:30-4:00 Rachel Malley; CxF for the Printer

4:00-4:30 Massimo Genio; Sustainability through the use of Nitrogen Vacuum Technology to reduce CO² emissions

4:30-5:00 Eric Serenius; Applications of Roto-Hybrid DLC coatings for gravure markets

Battery Manufacturing Track

Wednesday, Sept. 28

11:30-12:00 Jorge Vicco; Inks for Li-Ion battery anodes printed by gravure

Gravure Coating & Printing Track

Wednesday, Sept. 28 Panel Discussions

1:30-2:30 Dan Comerford, Bob Speiss, Hubert Metzger; Current State of Chrome Plated Gravure Cylinders

2:30-3:30 Eric Serenius, Bob Speiss, Flavio Losa; Alternative Cylinder Technologies

The R2R USA Conference has lined up 70 speakers, the exhibition floor has 46 exhibitors, and attendance is lining up as before the COVID-19 pandemic. This will be the biggest and most-attended R2R USA in years! For more information, contact AIMCAL Member Outreach Director Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org

2022 GAA Golden Cylinder Awards

The 2022 GAA Golden Cylinder Award winners will be announced and the coveted GC trophies will be presented to the winners’ representatives. A video showing each category winner will be part of the ceremony at the AIMCAL R2R USA Conference on Monday, Sept. 26, at 4:00 p.m.

The GAA Committee wants to thank Daetwyler Corp. for hosting the 2021 and 2022 Golden Cylinder judging event. We want to thank those gravure professionals who spent time reviewing all the entrants’ documentation and videos as well as spending a day reviewing the print samples. The judges always have a tough job scoring the category eniries and picking the winners, including the “Best of the Best.” Thanks to all.

From the August Issue of SmallBiz@EPA

Below are a couple of articles from the August 2022 issue. To download the August issue PDF, go to: https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-sa0a76afacf4146beb17f61e4e48a1e9e

Implementing Statutory Addition of Certain Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) to the Toxics Release Inventory Beginning with Reporting Years 2021 and 2022

The US EPA is updating the list of chemicals subject to toxic-chemical release reporting under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) and the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA). Specifically, this action updates the regulations to identify five per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that must be reported pursuant to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (FY2020 NDAA) enacted on December 20, 2019. As this action is being taken to conform the regulations to a Congressional legislative mandate, notice and comment rulemaking is unnecessary. This final rule is effective August 17, 2022. The docket for this action, identified by docket identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-TRI-2022-0453, is available at https://www.regulations.gov. Read the rule in the Federal Register.

Community Right-To-Know: Adopting 2022 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Codes for Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) Reporting

The US EPA is proposing to update the list of North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes subject to reporting under the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) to reflect the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 2022 NAICS code revision. OMB updates the NAICS codes every five years. EPA currently uses 2017 NAICS codes and is proposing to implement the 2022 codes for TRI Reporting Year 2022 (i.e., facilities reporting to TRI would be required to use 2022 NAICS codes on reports that are due to the Agency by July 1, 2023). The actual data required by a TRI form will not change as a result of this rulemaking, nor will the rule affect the universe of TRI reporting facilities that are required to submit reports to the Agency under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA).

Comments must be received on or before Sept. 20, 2022. Submit your comments, identified by docket identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPPT-2022-0387, through the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Read the proposed rule in the Federal Register.

The Gravure Tech Corner!

Coming soon: A technical article on the importance of “Controlling Gravure-Ink Temperature” during printing, authored by Gary Silvers, technical consultant from GSP Specialties, Inc. Gary’s gravure experience started over 50 years ago working his way through the gravure pressroom. He is well versed in the gravure process and will be sharing his years of experience in the article.

The latest inductees will receive their lapel pins at the 2022 AIMCAL R2R on September 26^th. This honor is bestowed to those who have contributed over the years to the Gravure Association, the industry and by promoting and improving the gravure process. Please congratulate them for their dedication to the Gravure Process and Industry.

New Online “Gravure Basics” Video Course Available

New Online “Gravure Basics” Video Course available

This course and all GAA-Committee Online courses along with the Gravure textbooks are all available at: www.aimcal.org, click on “Resources” tab, then pick “Products” from the dropdown. You will also see all the training courses and other products that are offered from AIMCAL.

For all the news you may have missed, go to Archived News (aimcal.org)

GAA Services, Training and Products:

On-site Training/On-site Consulting:

The Gravure Textbook Sale Continues:

We continue to receive orders for the Gravure Process and Technology and the Gravure Specifications and Tolerances (GST) textbooks. They can be purchased at Shop (www.aimcal.org)

Gravure Certification:

Want to become a member?

Anyone interested in having their company become a member of this dynamic association of companies that are promoting the gravure process, please go to: Become a Member | AIMCAL

Questions? Contact AIMCAL Member Outreach Director Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org

GravurExchange Newsletter – August 2022

August 1, 2022

The August 2022 edition of the GravurExchange
Your source for news and events

Happy Anniversary!
August 1st is the one-year anniversary of the GAA merger into AIMCAL

As of August 1^st, 2022 it will be one year since the GAA merged into AIMCAL. The merger brought companies that are primarily “Printers” and their suppliers into AIMCAL. With the addition of the packaging and décor/product “Printers” merging into the Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators (Converters), AIMCAL’s membership is now one of the most all-encompassing Printer/Converter associations worldwide. AIMCAL being Internationally oriented was one of the reasons that attracted the GAA to them.

Of the GAA members that merged, 10 of them were already AIMCAL members and 75% of the others renewed for 2022. The majority of those who did not renew were themselves involved in acquisitions and or their target business has changed. We anticipate over time some will return when training and networking needs require. So, all in all the merger that brought the GAA members expanded benefits and networking as becoming AIMCAL members has had a very good first year.

The GAA “Legacy” members have participated in the 2020 USA R2R (virtual), 2021 USA R2R, the 2022 Executive Leadership and the 2022 R2R Europe conferences and are involved in the 2022 USA R2R preparation. Our members have provided speakers for all of the above and the 2021 Gravure Fundamentals and we have held a Gravure Basics Webinar. Rod Sosa (FresCo) and Todd Luman (Interprint) both active in the Gravure Association are now on the AIMCAL Board of Directors combining “Printers” concerns with the “Converters”. AIMCAL having many diverse committees has allowed some of the legacy members personnel to join other committees. Go to Committees | AIMCAL to review and join other committees that can help in networking. As Lou DeFlaviis declared when the merger was completed “Together we are stronger” has proven to be spot on.

The Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee is looking for those who want to be involved in the committee’s leadership.

We cannot thank Lou DeFlaviis, JD Harris and John Edwards enough for being the leaders who steered the GAA into AIMCAL and lead us through the first year. However, now they are ready to pass the torch on to a new leadership team. What we need now are those dynamic leaders who want to become the GAA- Committees Chair, Co-Chair and Secretary.

The GAA-Committee members have been able to keep the GravurExchange being published each month, have come forward as needed to participate in the Golden Cylinder Awards as entrants and judges and participated in Steering Committees, nominate Cylinder Society members, participate in Gravure Days and conference agenda committees. To keep these features happening and adding new features the GAA-Committee needs leaders. Getting volunteers to help is not the issue, we have members pitch in as needed but we need those who can plan and be the visionaries to keep the GAA-Committee working to the future. For those interested to take the reins, contact tdonato@gaa.org or tim@aimcal.org

It is time to register for the AIMCAL R2R USA Technical Conference

Members are registering for the AIMCAL R2R USA Technical Conference for September 26-29 in Orlando, FL. Go to 2022 R2R USA Conference (aimcal.org) to register and to review the agenda and schedule. The R2R USA is a multi-track conference plus multiple Keynote speakers. The in-person 2022 R2R is looking like a pre-COVID conference. For Sponsorships and exhibitor registration go to: Sponsorship Opportunities | 2022 R2R USA (aimcal.org) We encourage the GAA-Committee members to show your support by becoming sponsors.

For answers to your questions please contact Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org as soon as possible; spaces are limited. The Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee has been lining up speakers for the Gravure Track that will provide the gravure community with the latest in technologies and best practices.

As the opening article stated the GAA-Committee brought “Printers” into AIMCAL and for the R2R the Gravure track the committee approved sessions that would inform attendees on digital and rotary screen printing. The reality of packaging and product printing for many of our members, is they use different printing processes. With that in mind and having meaningful topics that support our members, it was decided to add other printing processes to the track. A live Gravure Basics webinar was held in May and a Gravure Fundamentals course at the 2021 R2R, so it was decided not to hold a Gravure Fundamentals in 2022. GAA-Committee members Bill Poulson and Tony Donato will present a Flexo-101 course on Monday September 26^th. For those who need a Gravure Basics course go to: Gravure Basics an overview of the gravure process (aimcal.org).

Important notice for all who are using “1-Bromopropane” it is found in some degreasers.

The EPA has added CAS# is 106-94-5 (1-Bromopropane (n-propylbromide or nPB) is an organobromine compound with the chemical formula CH3CH2CH2Br) to the list of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) listed in Section 112 of the Clean Air Act. There are air permitting and air pollution control implications associated with this action. Companies using degreasers should have your EHS coordinator to check it is being used and or emitted. HAPs have to recorded and reported. I am not sure if it is being used in the printing industry but did not want to assume all were aware of the EPA action. If you have questions please contact tdonato@gaa.org

New Jersey Adopts Greenhouse Gas Rule Impacting Some Printing Operations

This article originally appeared on the PRINTING United Alliance First to Know page and is republished with permission. To learn more about PRINTING United Alliance and its vast member benefits, including access to veteran Alliance industry experts like Gary Jones who provides insight on critical issues such as these, please visit: www.printing.org.

As part of a new package of regulations, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has adopted several new rules requiring more rigorous monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions in certain situations and one of them impacts printing operations. The rulemaking is part of a comprehensive strategy to address greenhouse gas emissions statewide. The rule effecting printing operations requires facilities that use 50 pounds or more of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants in refrigeration systems to register and report their equipment and use of refrigerants.

NJDEP reports that refrigeration system leaks comprise up to 35 percent of the State’s estimated overall halogenated gas emissions. The proposed registration and reporting program allows NJDEP to identify the use of high-GWP refrigerants in refrigeration systems in the State, providing a more accurate baseline inventory of these pollutants.

NJDEP defines a “refrigeration system” at N.J.A.C. 7:27E-1.2 to mean stationary, non-residential equipment that:

1) is an industrial process refrigeration (appliances linked to an industrial process), commercial refrigeration (appliance used in the retail food or cold storage warehouse sectors), or other refrigeration appliance; and

2) the equipment has a single refrigerant circuit that requires 50 pounds or more of any combination of high-GWP refrigerant to maintain normal operating characteristics and conditions.

Under this definition, a refrigeration system that requires 50 pounds or more of a high-GWP refrigerant or combination of refrigerants, at least one of which is a high-GWP refrigerant, will have to comply with N.J.A.C. 7:27E-2. Excluded from the definition are systems used for comfort cooling such as air conditioning systems, excluding chillers. Chiller used for comfort cooling or industrial process cooling are included in the new requirements.

NJDEP defines a “high-GWP refrigerant” to mean a compound used as a heat transfer fluid or gas that is a chlorofluorocarbon, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon, a hydrofluorocarbon, a perfluorocarbon, or any compound or blend of compounds with a 100-year GWP value equal to or greater than 150. The rule incorporates by reference the “GWP value” as published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The 100-year GWP values are published in table 2.14 of the 2007 IPCC AR4, at https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/02/ar4-wg1-chapter2-1.pdf, and in Chapter 8 of AR5, pp. 731-37, Appendix 8.A, at https://archive.ipcc.ch/pdf/assessment-report/ar5/wg1/WG1AR5_Chapter08_FINAL.pdf. These values are also published on the NJDEP website at: https://dep.nj.gov/wp-content/uploads/ghg/refrigerants-100-gwp.pdf.

The owner or operator of a covered facility with one or more refrigeration systems must register and submit a facility registration fee. Registration is through the Department’s online business portal at NJDEPonline.com. Registration is valid for five years. Prior to the registration expiration date, the facility will receive a renewal invoice.

Initial registration is due by October 1, 2022. If the owner or operator has its first refrigeration system installed after the operative date of the rulemaking, the registration is due 90 days after installation.

Once the facility is registered, the owner or operator of the facility must submit an annual Facility Refrigeration System Report in accordance with N.J.A.C. 7:27E-2.3. Among other information, the report is to include the refrigeration system identification number and information for each refrigeration system at the facility, including equipment type, manufacturer, model or description, model year, serial number, date of installation, temperature classification, the full charge of the refrigeration system, and the identity of the high-GWP refrigerant. The report is also to include the quantity of each high-GWP refrigerant purchased, the amount of each high-GWP refrigerant charged into the refrigeration system that is not considered part of an initial refrigerant charge, and the amounts recovered, stored, or shipped by the facility to be reclaimed or destroyed in a calendar year. This information will be used to calculate refrigerant leakage and subsequent emissions from each facility.

Annual reports are due starting April 1, 2023, and all subsequent years on April 1, for the previous calendar year. The time period of refrigerant use for the initial report for existing systems is October 1, 2022, or the first month 90 days after the installation of a new system.

The owner or operator of a registered facility must also maintain records, as provided at N.J.A.C. 7:27E-2.4. Records to be kept include all refrigeration system service and refrigerant leak repairs, items required to be reported in the Facility Refrigeration System Report, and refrigeration system component data, measurements, calculations, and assumptions used to determine the full charge. The facility must keep the records at the facility for five years and must make them available to the Department, on request.

For more information, please see https://dep.nj.gov/ghg/ghgmr-rule/refrigeration/.

PRINTING United Alliance seeks to keep the printing industry updated on workplace requirements related to environmental compliance. For more information, or if you have questions on this or any other state regulatory program, please contact Marci Kinter, mkinter@printing.org or Gary Jones, gjones@printing.org

From the July Issue of SmallBiz@EPA

Below are a couple of articles from the July 2022 issue and to download the July issue PDF go to: https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-saf30c337d0a04e95b47a25acc3669bd5

EPA Announces Winners of the 2022 Green Chemistry Challenge Awards

On June 6, 2022, EPA announced the winners of the 2022 Green Chemistry Challenge Awards. Green chemistry is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the generation and use of hazardous substances. This year’s winners have developed new and innovative green chemistry technologies that provide solutions to significant environmental challenges and spur innovation and economic development. In support of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to tackle the climate crisis, EPA added a new award category this year that recognizes technology that reduces or eliminates greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the winners that is of interest to Printing community is

Professor Mark Mascal of the University of California, Davis, California, in partnership with Origin Materials, for a technology that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by producing chemicals for making polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic from biomass derived from sugar fructose rather than petroleum. This novel chemistry could have significant climate impacts by replacing fossil-based products with carbon-neutral, biobased products, especially when the technology is scaled to an entire industry.

The other winners can be found in the PDF

https://aimcal.sharefile.com/d-saf30c337d0a04e95b47a25acc3669bd5

EPA Seeks Small Businesses’ Input on Development of Proposed TSCA Data Reporting Rule

EPA is inviting small businesses to participate as Small Entity Representatives (SERs) for a Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) Panel. This Panel will focus on EPA’s development of a proposed rule to collect data to inform each step of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) risk evaluation and risk management process.

The proposed rule would establish a framework of reporting requirements based on a chemical’s status in the TSCA Section 6 Risk Evaluation/Risk Management Lifecycle. Additionally, this new data reporting rule would enhance the exposure-related data collected through the TSCA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) process. EPA is interested in ensuring its data collection strategies provide information to better meet the Agency’s basic chemical data needs, such as information related to exposure, health and eco-toxicity. Collecting data geared specifically towards prioritization, risk evaluation, and risk management would help ensure the Agency has relevant and timely data to inform each step of the process for reviewing potential risks from existing chemicals.

The proposed rule is intended to create a framework to obtain information about potential hazards and exposure pathways related to certain chemicals, particularly occupational, environmental, and consumer exposure information.

The potentially regulated community consists of entities that manufacture, import or process chemical substances, potentially including when the chemical substance is manufactured as a byproduct or is part of a formulated product or article (including import and processing). Learn more about potentially regulated entities.

EPA seeks self-nominations directly from the small entities that may be subject to the rule requirements. Other representatives, such as trade associations that exclusively or at least primarily represent potentially regulated small entities, may also serve as SERs. Self-nominations must be received by July 20, 2022. Nominate yourself as a SER: www.epa.gov/reg-flex/potential-sbar-panel-tsca-section-8-rule-tiered-data-reporting-tdr-and-recordkeeping. Read the press release.

Time is running out to nominate your colleagues or those you consider who have helped advanced the knowledge of the Gravure industry to the Cylinder Society Class of 2022. “The Cylinder Society is a way for those who are helping to advance the Gravure process and association to be recognized,” Hubert says.

Nominations for the Class of 2022 must be received no later than August 26, 2022. See the list of Cylinder Society members at Cylinder Society Members – GAA. The nomination form is available for download: GRAVURE CYLINDER SOCIETY (gaa.org)

As GAA continues to integrate into AIMCAL, the 2023 Golden Cylinder Awards are scheduled to coincide with the AIMCAL AWARDS that will have a January 31, 2023, entry deadline

The entry form will be available soon. So those who want to enter the 2023 GCAs, it will cover work performed between June 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022.

New Online “Gravure Basics” Video Course available

The Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee NEEDS YOUR HELP! The GAA-Committee is looking for individuals who want to become involved in the committee and its sub-committees. We need those who want to become part of the leadership team as well as those who can help with the GravurExchange, promoting the associations to companies that use the gravure process, article writers, conference track topics and speaker recruitment, attending virtual meetings w/other association and on and on. If interested, contact Tony Donato tdoanto@gaa.org or text to 704-905-5178.

The GAA Committee reviewed the plans for the Basic and Advanced Seminars and decided it would be best to move them to June 2023. The Basic and Advance “live” Seminar is being held at Interprint in Pittsfield, MA. It was felt moving to 2023 would be better for the members who need to budget the training. The COVID-19 years have caused items that were routine budget lines to be left out, and time is needed to reschedule. More information will be available soon.

Converting Quarterly, the official technical journal of AIMCAL, is a great source of information and current news from members and the industry. Go to https://www.convertingquarterly.com/ to subscribe to the quarterly print magazine, the digital edition, the weekly CQ eNews…or all three.

For all the news you may have missed, go to Archived News (aimcal.org)

“Ask the Gravure Experts” is a feature where members from the GAA-Committee review your questions and reply directly to you, publishing the Q&A in the next issue of GravurExchange. One of the important benefits of being part of an association is the ability to network with members, and the “Ask the Gravure Experts” provides the opportunity to all readers of GravurExchange to collaborate. Send your question, subject line: “Gravure Experts” to info@gaa.org

GAA Services, Training and Products:

On-site Training/On-site Consulting:

The Gravure Textbook Sale Continues:

We continue to receive orders for the Gravure Process and Technology and the Gravure Specifications and Tolerances (GST) textbooks. They can be purchased at Shop (www.aimcal.org)

Gravure Certification:

Want to become a member?

Anyone interested in having their company become a member of this dynamic association of companies that are promoting the gravure process, please go to: Become a Member | AIMCAL

Questions? Contact AIMCAL Member Outreach Director Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org

GravurExchange Newsletter – May 2022

May 26, 2022

The May 2022 edition of the GravurExchange
Your source for news for the Gravure Industry!

We Speak Gravure!

The deadline has been extended to June 24.

Show us what you got! This is your opportunity to show the gravure community your creativity and ingenuity in what can be produced using the gravure process. 2022 Golden Cylinder Awards entries are being received. There are four primary award categories with sub-categories that reflect the best execution of the Gravure-printing process and supporting innovations giving 35 categories. All entries need to represent work performed from June 1, 2021, to May 31, 2022.

To learn more and see past winners: https://gaa.org/awards/golden-cylinder-awards/

To download the entry form, go to GAA-Golden-Cylinder-Awards-2022-Form-EXTENDED-Rev-B.pdf

The GCAs are sponsored by the GAA Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee and ACiMGA, Italian Manufacturers Assn. of Machinery for the Graphic, Converting and Paper Industry, thus making the awards a truly international competition.

We need your help! The annual R2R USA technical conference is in its planning stage, and your input is needed. AIMCAL R2R USA Conference on September 26-29 in Orlando FL. R2R USA is a multi-track conference giving the Gravure AIMCAL Alliance Committee an opportunity to provide technical and timely information to its members. The GAA Committee has formed a R2R sub-committee to select topics and speakers for the Gravure Track at R2R USA. If you have a topic or idea, please contact Tony Donato at tdonato@gaa.org

It’s time to nominate your colleagues or those you consider the people who have helped advanced the knowledge of the Gravure industry to the Cylinder Society Class of 2022. Cylinder Society Chair Hubert Metzger took the stage in Charlotte (NC) at the AIMCAL Executive Leadership Conference to address the importance and relevance of the Cylinder Society. “The Cylinder Society is a way for those who are helping to advance the Gravure process and association to be recognized,” Hubert says.

The 2021 inductees have been notified; they and the 2022 inductees will be pinned at the 2022 R2R USA Conference (aimcal.org).

How do we attract students to consider Graphics-related careers? Do a “Show & Tell!”

On May 6 on the Harper Campus at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte (NC), a career “exploration and awareness” event was held for a group of Olympic High School Business Academy students. The students were mostly sophomores and juniors with a couple seniors, who were unaware of the career possibilities in Graphic Communications. The “Show” program was organized for the students to see and touch prepress, flexo platemaking, press operation, ink formulation, and screen printing. Each student printed their own two-sided T-shirt. In addition to the “Show” portion of the program, a “Tell” portion had young professionals from printing companies sharing why they chose our industry and described the available careers and how to get started.

Thanks to the individuals of the organizations, associations and companies who helped to make the event happen: AIMCAL, CPCC Harper Campus, Clemson University, Flint Group (Poteet Ink Systems), Harper Corporation of America, ID Images, JR. Cole Industries, Imagine Charlotte, Olympic High School, PICA (Print industries of the Carolinas), Phoenix Challenge Foundation, SGS (Southern Graphic Systems), Tri-Blends.

What’s on the Minds of our Members: by Tony D.

“Management of Change”! During the Gravure Track R2R USA Sub-Committee meeting last week, the majority of time was spent discussing all the challenges the COVID-related supply-change crisis has and is causing. Then add consumer-influenced sustainability concerns and John Edwards of Sun said that we are all dealing with the “Management of Change.” The reality check in making the needed delivery dates involves everyone from the printer and their customers combined with the suppliers making decisions in an ever-changing environment. One discussion was around who has the APR (Association of Plastic Recyclers) Guidelines on what paper labels can be on a plastic bottle with what inks and can then be recycled. It all comes down to contingency plans for the contingency plans. I do not have the answers, but in the words of Red Green (the onstage character of Canadian comic Steve Smith): “Remember. I’m pullin’ for ya–we’re all in this together.”

For Wisconsin printers:

“It’s “Time to Get Back Together” says the Wisconsin Print Industries Council

The council has scheduled a meeting that will address critical environmental, health & safety, and sustainability updates. The program, “Changing Regulatory Landscape Workshop for the Printing Industry,” will feature speakers from industry, the US Dept. of Agriculture, and the WI Dept. of Natural Resources. The program will be held June 22, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CDT at Waukesha County Technical College.

More information including registration: https://glga.info/registration/changing-regulatory-landscape-workshop-for-the-printing-industry/

This month’s featured article: Why Brand Owners have endorsed color management by using CxF (Color Exchange Format) data

By Rachel Malley, Product & Application Specialist for CGS ORIS AMERICAS

Printers, let’s talk color…

Your customers have invested in their brand identity, and they recognize that customer loyalty is strengthened by pleasing and consistent branding across all platforms. After carefully selecting colors and imagery for their products, companies put their packaging and printed material into your professional hands. With the supply-chain crisis affecting accessible material, substitutions are the new normal, and print jobs are often shared between various print shops and technology to meet delivery dates. So, how do you ensure that your printed materials reproduce consistently to the specifications of the brand owner?

Color is often defined with a physical swatch or a Pantone value. Both methods have associated risks, such as damage to the original sample, referencing different editions of swatch books, or even poor viewing & measurement conditions. Digital communication of color expectations is one major way to save time, money, and stress throughout production. Brands of all sizes across the globe are embracing the latest standard for communicating brand colors – Color Exchange Format, or CxF.

CxF is a non-proprietary, standard method for digitally communicating all aspects of an individual color. At the heart of CxF data is spectral information, which numerically defines exactly how color measures to a spectrophotometer. Objectively defining color eliminates a wide variety of factors that we currently encounter in print color management.

In addition to spectral data, a CxF file can contain a variety of other information including name, substrate, measurement condition, opacity, tints, and much more. All this information is embedded into one little file for easy transportation to various vendors.

For a moment, let’s assume you’ve done step one and created CxF data defining your colors. What comes next? Where is this information used? This powerful data can first be used in design and prepress. Once embedded into a PDF, a single file can be sent to proofing to produce improved overprint & tint reproduction. Once approved, the data is supplied to the ink lab to generate the perfect formulation. This formulation is specific to the desired substrate and print technology and optimized for metamerism*. The approved ink is then sent to production. At each of these steps, certification is performed to ensure accuracy to the original definition and brand tolerances.

With proper tools and training in place throughout the workflow, brands can implement CxF technology and feel confident that the highest-quality print production is entering the world, all without needing to travel on-site to have eyes on press.

CxF is a powerful tool already being used across the globe by top brands and suppliers. Once implemented, CxF can simplify your production process and ensure clear communication of expectations across the entire workflow.

*Metamerism defines the phenomenon that occurs when two samples appear to closely match under one lighting condition but look different under another.

To learn more about CxF, contact rachel@cgsoris.com, https://www.cgsoris.com/products/cxf-tools/

GAA-Committee Gravure Basics Webinar on May 10-11
“Was a Great Success!”

The GAA-Committee wants to thank Mark Glendenning of Inland Packaging; Prof. D’Amico of RIT; Felice Sciscioli of Sun Chemical; J.D. Harris of Point 3, Inc.; Mike Gaffney of GAA-Committee; Bill Warner of Allison Systems; Dan Comerford of WRE Color Tech; Rod Sosa of Fres-co Systems; Kevin McNally of Bobst; Allan MacKinlay of i2M; Ernest Schneider of BST NA; and Joe Steingraeber of Steingraeber LLC for being presenters and sharing their expertise and experiences during the May 10-11 “Gravure Basics” AIMCAL Webinar.

For those who could not attend, the presentations were recorded, and AIMCAL will be offering a self-paced online course. Interested? Email to gaa@aimcal.org, subject line “Gravure Basics.”

For all the news you may have missed, go to Archived News (aimcal.org)

Save the date! Live four-day intensive Gravure Training is back. On August 8-11, 2022, trainers and experts will be at Interprint in Pittsfield, MA, which will host the “Gravure Basic and Advances Seminars.” More information to come soon!

“Ask the Gravure Experts” is a feature where members from the GAA Committee review your questions and reply directly to you, publishing the Q&A in the next issue of GravurExchange. One of the important benefits of being part of an association is the ability to network with members, and the “Ask the Gravure Experts” provides the opportunity to all readers of GravurExchange to collaborate. Send your question, subject line: “Gravure Experts” to info@gaa.org

Thanks to all who have renewed their membership. The following link will help all to understand how to make use of the valuable benefits available from being a member of AIMCAL. Video Walk Through of Login Process + Member Resources.

University and College Gravure Day: This program helps students understand all the industry segments that use the Gravure process and provides awareness of all the careers in printing and converting. Interested in holding a “Gravure Day?” Email info@gaa.org, subject line: “Gravure Day.”

GAA Services, Training and Products:

On-site Training/On-site Consulting:

The Gravure Textbook Sale Continues:

We continue to receive orders for the Gravure Process and Technology and the Gravure Specifications and Tolerances (GST) textbooks. They can be purchased at Shop (www.aimcal.org)

Gravure Certification:

Want to become a member?

Anyone interested in having their company become a member of this dynamic association of companies that are promoting the gravure process, please go to: Become a Member | AIMCAL

Questions? Contact AIMCAL Member Outreach Director Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org

GravurExchange Newsletter – April 2022

April 26, 2022

The April 2022 edition of the GravurExchange
Your source for news for the Gravure Industry!

We Speak Gravure!

There is still time to enter the 2022 Golden Cylinder Awards!

The deadline has been extended to June 24.

With the supply-chain challenges affecting our industry, the entry deadline date for the 2022 Golden Cylinder Awards has been extended to June 24. We have heard from a number of members how the logistics crisis is keeping them scrambling, so this is our way to help the situation. There are four primary award categories that reflect the best execution of the Gravure-printing process and supporting innovations: A. PACKAGING AND LABEL, with nine sub-categories; B. PRODUCT, with eight sub-categories; C. PUBLICATION, with 10 sub-categories; and D. TECHNICAL INNOVATION, with eight sub-categories; for a total of 35 categories.

Additional changes affected by deadline extension: The materials to be judged needs to be received no later than July 1, 2022. All entries need to represent work performed from June 1, 2021, to May 31, 2022. The judging will be held in mid-July, and the awards presented at the AIMCAL R2R USA Conference in Orlando, FL 2022 R2R USA Conference (aimcal.org). Winners will be notified the first week in August.

To learn more and see past winners: https://gaa.org/awards/golden-cylinder-awards/

To download the entry form, go to GAA-Golden-Cylinder-Awards-2022-Form-EXTENDED-Rev-B.pdf

We want to thank all who attended the recent AIMCAL Executive Leadership Conference in Charlotte on April 4-5.

It was great to be back in person for a live conference. The NASCAR Hall of Fame was a terrific venue, and the business topics covered by the speakers were timely and very informative. We also want to thank the sponsors Daetwyler, INX International and Steingraeber-Enulec.

The next live conference will be the annual technical-themed AIMCAL R2R USA Conference on September 25-29 in Orlando FL. For all you who have technical information, methods and innovations and want to share a non-commercial presentation, it is time to file the “Call for Papers” form by June 1. 2022 R2R USA Conference (aimcal.org)

Gravure Basics Virtual Seminar May 10-11
“Save your spot by registering Today”

The “Gravure Basics” virtual seminar is designed for those new to Gravure Printing and Coating. The program with live speakers takes place over two days, May 10-11, 2022. Each webinar is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. EDT, and will feature six speakers each day with 30-minute presentations and 5 minutes for Q&A. Moderators will facilitate Q&A sessions, and there will be a 20-minute break halfway through each webinar.

The presenters are all members of the GAA Committee (Gravure AIMCAL Alliance) and bring countless years of experience to share with the attendees.

Sessions on May 10 will be “The valued and unique qualities of Gravure Printing”, “Gravure Market Segments”, “Gravure Print Station Components”, “Pressroom Safety”, “Cylinder Basics” and “Doctor Blades, Holders and related topics”. May 11 sessions will be “Pressroom Perspective of Gravure Inks”, “Color Management as related to Color Theory”, “Press Registration and Drying Fundamentals”, “Films/Foils and Paper Substrates Applications”, “Web Inspection” and “ESA and Web Static Control”.

Member registration is $299, and $399 for non-member for both days. Click Here To Register

“Gravure Printing and Converting Corner”

DOCTOR-BLADE SYSTEM CHALLENGES FOR WIDE-WEB CYLINDER METERING – Part 3 “Efficient Blade Changes” by Bill Warner of Allison Systems, Riverside, NJ.

Wide-web gravure applications can have doctor blades with lengths greater than 100 in. When doctor blades are that long, setting them correctly and consistently to achieve effective metering can be more difficult because slight variations will be compounded over the length of the blade. Part One of this article focused on challenges with setting the doctor blade at an appropriate position and angle; Part Two centered on applied force control. This month will cover the barriers to efficient blade changes.

Quick and easy blade-change capability is essential when working with long doctor blades. Slow, difficult, and potentially dangerous blade changes were the norm with a very wide-web application that required a +200-in.-long doctor blade. The existing bladeholder was a prime example of everything you don’t want in a very-wide-web blade holder. It needed to be removed from the press and carried to a remote location to clean the holder and install new doctor blades. Carrying such as long, heavy, steel doctor bladeholder with a used, sharp doctor blade installed could be challenging for the three operators typically needed to accomplish the task. To install the new blade, dozens of bolts had to be loosened and then carefully re-tightened so that the blade did not have any wrinkles. The blade holder was worn from all the years of being carried in and out of the press so that, even on a good day, it was difficult to install the doctor blade without producing wrinkles in the blade. Assuming the blade was installed without wrinkles, often the blade would have wrinkles after the bladeholder was carried back and installed on the press due to deflection of the holder while being carried. Wrinkles in the doctor blade typically lead to poor metering and printed waste. Upgrades with this project provide new components with the ability to be able to perform blade-change operations on-press, in less than 10 minutes, and without having to use tools or deal with bladeholder bolts and their associated issues.

This three-part article was intended to briefly reveal common issues seen particularly with wide-web gravure doctor-blade systems. However, the same issues could apply to any width blade system. If you have chronic poor metering issues, the first component to consider would be the doctor blade. Contact your doctor-blade supplier to help determine if you are using an appropriate blade for your application and that the blade is being set properly. If it is determined that the blade is appropriate for your application and any of the points presented in these articles sound familiar, then it might be time to look at upgrades or replacement of the doctor-blade system. If you need help, the press manufacturer would be a good place to start or consult with an aftermarket blade-system manufacturer.

The GravurExchange wants to thank Bill Warner and Allison Systems for providing the three-part article. “DOCTOR BLADE SYSTEM CHALLENGES FOR WIDE-WEB CYLINDER METERING.”

Next month’s technical article will feature Rachel Malley, Product & Application Specialist for CGS ORIS AMERICAS explaining why Brand Owners have endorsed color management by using CxF (Color Exchange Format) data.

Here is a preview: “Remote color management is a hot topic in our modern print and marketing world. With business travel less common, brand owners are looking for solutions to ensure their spot colors reproduce accurately and consistently across the entire workflow. Color Exchange Format (CxF) is becoming a major part of this solution as printed material is produced globally on various substrates and print technology. Tune in to next month’s newsletter to learn more about how CxF has helped brand owners across the globe ensure the highest print quality, without having to leave their home office.”

In an effort to catch up for the lost year, we have closed the Class of 2021 and will announce new inductees at the AIMCAL R2R USA Conference 2022 R2R USA Conference (aimcal.org) along with the Class of 2022.

It’s time to nominate your colleagues or those you consider the people who have helped advanced the knowledge of the Gravure industry to the Cylinder Society Class of 2022. Cylinder Society Chair Hubert Metzger took the stage to address the importance and relevance of the Cylinder Society at the AIMCAL Executive Leadership Conference earlier this month. “The Cylinder Society is a way for those who are helping to advance the Gravure process and association to be recognized.”

For Wisconsin printers:

“Save the date June 22 as it’s “Time to Get Back Together” says the Wisconsin Print Industries Council.

We’re excited to announce that we are having an in-person meeting for the printing industry in Wisconsin that will address critical environmental, health & safety, and sustainability updates. The program, Changing Regulatory Landscape Workshop for the Printing Industry, will feature speakers from industry, the US Dept. of Agriculture, and the WI Dept. of Natural Resources.

The program will be held June 22, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CDT at Waukesha County Technical College. More information including registration go to https://glga.info/registration/changing-regulatory-landscape-workshop-for-the-printing-industry/

EPA Seeks Input on Revision to Air Emissions Reporting Requirements Rule

The US EPA invites qualified small businesses, governments, and not-for-profit organizations to participate as Small Entity Representatives (SERs) for a Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) Panel. The panel will focus on the agency’s development of proposed revisions to the existing Air Emissions Reporting Requirements (AERR) rule that was last revised and published on February 19, 2015 (80 FR 8787). The proposal may add reporting requirements to gather data about hazardous air pollutants, emissions-rate test results from facilities, emissions from facilities in Native American areas that are not currently reporting emissions data, and emissions from small electricity-generating units used intermittently, such as to meet demand on high electricity-use days. The panel will include federal representatives from the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and EPA. Panel members ask a selected group of SERs to provide advice and recommendations on behalf of their company, government, or organization to inform panel members about potential impacts of the proposed rule on small entities. EPA seeks self-nominations directly from the small entities that may be subject to the rule requirements. Other representatives, such as trade associations that exclusively or at least primarily represent potentially regulated small entities, may also serve as SERs. Self-nominations must be received by April 19, 2022: Nominate yourself as a SER. Read the full press release.

The February 2022 issue of SmallBiz@EPA covering Policy & Regulations, Key Dates & Upcoming Opportunities, Ask SBEAP and Spotlight can be read by clicking: gaa.org/wp-content/uploads/SmallBiz@EPA-April-2022.pdf The Website epa.gov/resources-small-businesses/asbo is a resource for environment-related information. The following link provides some sustainability downloads: Smart Steps to Sustainability 2.0 | US EPA

For all the news you may have missed, go to Archived News (aimcal.org)

GAA Services, Training and Products:

On-site Training/On-site Consulting:

The Gravure Textbook Sale Continues:

We continue to receive orders for the Gravure Process and Technology and the Gravure Specifications and Tolerances (GST) textbooks. They can be purchased at Shop (www.aimcal.org)

Gravure Certification:

Want to become a member?

Anyone interested in having their company become a member of this dynamic association of companies that are promoting the gravure process, please go to: Become a Member | AIMCAL

Questions? Contact AIMCAL Member Outreach Director Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org

GravurExchange Newsletter – March 2022

March 30, 2022

The March 2022 edition of the GravurExchange
Your source for news for the Gravure Industry!

The Place to Network!

April 4-5: Executive Leadership Conference Global Summit

The conference agenda covers three business themes: Monday “Leadership and Operational Excellence, ” Tuesday starts off with “Financial Analysis and Market Outlook” and winds down with “The Future of Manufacturing and the Roll-to-Roll Industry.” Well, this is your chance to combine touring the NASCAR Hall of Fame and seeing your fellow Printer/Converter Industry members. The Executive Leadership Conference is a “Members 0nly” event. Look forward in seeing you there! 2022 Executive Leadership Conference (aimcal.org)

Gravure Virtual Basics Webinar May 10-11

The GAA second-annual Virtual “Gravure Basics” Webinar will be held May 10-11. The program is designed to explain the gravure market segments and the press components and materials used in the printing process. Speakers are all experts in their respected areas with many years of experience. Training is four hours each day. $299 for members and $399 for non-members.

“Gravure Printing and Converting Corner”
DOCTOR-BLADE SYSTEM CHALLENGES FOR WIDE-WEB CYLINDER METERING – Part 2: Force Control

Wide-web décor printing, coating, and hot-melt gravure applications can have doctor blades with lengths greater than 100 in. (254 cm). When doctor blades are that long, setting them correctly and consistently to achieve effective metering can be more difficult as slight variations will be compounded over the length of the blade. Part One of this article focused on challenges with setting the doctor blade at an appropriate position and angle. This month will highlight the challenges of force control.

Many blade systems, especially on older presses, are mechanically actuated. That is, a manual hand crank is used to move the doctor blade into position and meter the cylinder. The fundamental flaw with this mechanism for doctor-blade control is that there is no way to measure or repeat the amount of force being applied to the doctor blade. Narrow- and mid-web blade systems with mechanical actuation can be effective with good operator training. However, with wide-web applications, it is more difficult to gauge the amount of mechanical force being applied and, most of the time, too much force is used. The extra force over-deflects the doctor blade resulting in flat blade angles, poor metering performance, and increased doctor-blade and cylinder wear. An upgrade to mechanically actuated systems is pneumatics.

Pneumatic air cylinders of appropriate size and quantity coupled to an engineered control system will provide repeatable doctor-blade force that is easily controlled, measured, and recorded.

Regardless of actuation method, mechanical or pneumatic, it is critical in wide-web applications that the doctoring force is applied uniformly across the entire face of the gravure cylinder. Applying force with one or two mechanical mechanisms or pneumatic cylinders located randomly somewhere on the system will not result in an even distribution of force over a 100-in. (254-cm) or greater span. Uneven force distribution over the span of the doctor blade could result in print-density variations across the web.

A good wide-web doctor-blade system will be actuated by multiple, appropriately sized, pneumatic cylinders to provide even force distribution. In addition, the pneumatic-cylinder controls need to be engineered to deliver smooth, predictable motion that doesn’t slam the blade onto the cylinder. If your blade system doesn’t currently have these features, it may be time to investigate how to achieve them.

April GravurExchange with have Bill Warner’s conclusion to his article on DOCTOR BLADE SYSTEM CHALLENGES FOR WIDE-WEB CYLINDER METERING – Part 3: Efficient blade changes.

USPS information for the direct mailer segment

Highlights from the March 9th USPS Industry Alert:

As passed by the House and Senate, the key elements of the Postal Service Reform Act are that it eliminates the unfair, outdated, and burdensome retiree health-benefit prefunding requirement, and it integrates the retiree health-benefit program with Medicare in a manner that is fully consistent with private-sector best practices. The bill also formalizes the obligation to deliver mail and packages six days per-week through an integrated delivery network, and includes accountability, transparency and reporting requirements.

This legislation was an important component of the Delivering for America 10-Year Strategic Plan, which was announced in March 2021. Together with the operational reforms that are also a part of that Plan, the Postal Service will be able to achieve its two primary goals of financial sustainability and service excellence.

Further information about the necessity and merits of this postal reform is contained in the factsheet at the link below:
https://about.usps.com/who/government-relations/assets/psra-postal-101-02282022.pdf

Highlights from the March 18th USPS Industry Alert:

The 2022 National Postal Forum (NPF) Catalog is available for download in digital format. You can access it HERE.

The catalog outlines the NPF schedule of events and educational offerings taking place May 15-18, 2022, at the Phoenix Convention Center. Included in the catalog are an overview of the Postmaster General’s Keynote Address, the Executive Leadership team and Postal Officer sessions, and the five workshop tracks with all workshops listed. You will find information on two certification courses being offered this year: Executive Mail Center Manager, and Mail Design Professional. The NPF Exhibit Hall will feature more than 100 booths, a consultation area, and the Mailing Industry Resource Pavilion. Many networking events are available including Peer-to-Peer, the Welcome Reception, Postal Customer Council Reception, Exhibitors Reception, and the Closing Event. NPF is the premier shipping and mailing conference of the year. To find out more details about NPF, refer to the catalog and share with colleagues.

The catalog also provides information on how to register for NPF, or you can visit NPF’s website: NPF. If you need assistance with discount codes, please send an email to NPFFeedback@usps.gov.

Facing the Future Together is May 15-18, 2022 in Phoenix, AZ.

Time is running out to enter the 2022 Golden Cylinder Awards.

Entries are accepted until May 7, 2022.

There are four primary award categories that reflect the best execution of the Gravure-printing process and supporting innovations: A. PACKAGING AND LABEL, with nine sub-categories; B. PRODUCT, with eight sub-categories; C. PUBLICATION, with 10 sub-categories; and D. TECHNICAL INNOVATION, with eight sub-categories; for a total of 35 categories.

To learn more and see past winners: Golden Cylinder Awards – GAA.

To download the entry form, go to GAA-Golden-Cylinder-Awards-2022-Form.pdf

Observations by Tony Donato

In walking the aisles of my local grocery store, I noticed one of the major snack-food brands has moved from using a plastic bag to market a variety pack to a folding carton. I also was surprised when I bought a box of pancake mix and upon opening the box to find no inner bag. I got a puff of mix in my face; the mix was directly loaded into the carton.

These are both examples where brand owners are listening to consumers and reducing the use of plastic in packaging. Whether this is good or bad is not my point; the packaging changes are impacting printing processes, substrates, inks and supply chains. My point is, we need to do what we can to add our voices to the conversation. Please send to tdonato@gaa.org your thoughts and suggestions to be printed in the April 2022 GravurExchange.

With continued disruptions to worldwide supply chains and now the war in Ukraine, brand owners are forced to move printing work from country to country, and this is causing brand-owner concerns with controlling color from process to process and printing facility to printing facility. CxF Color Exchange Format is a way to control color with digital data. CxF has been discussed for 20 years now but is more than ever being seen as more important than ever. At the March Brand Owners Counsel meeting, a number of the BO delegates expressed using CxF data and not color chips; this will also reduce the need for “proofs” and give them a means to control color. Are you ready to use CxF data?

I have been invited to speak at the Brand Owners May 2022 meeting to present what changes have been made to improve gravure workflow. Please send me your thoughts and suggestions at tdonato@gaa.org.

Converting Quarterly, the official technical journal of AIMCAL, is a great source of information and curent news from members and the industry. Go to https://www.convertingquarterly.com/ to subscribe.

For all the news you may have missed, go to Archived News (aimcal.org)

To try to catch up for the lost year, we have closed the class of 2021 and will announce them at the R2R Conference 2022 R2R USA Conference (aimcal.org) along with the class of 2022. It is time to nominate your colleagues or those who you consider the people who have helped advanced the knowledge of the Gravure industry to the Cylinder Society Class of 2022. Gravure Cylinder Society members are men and women chosen by our industry to be honored for their contributions to the gravure processes measured in accomplishments and years of service. Some members are actively involved in activities throughout the year that promote and support gravure. Hubert Metzger is the Cylinder Society Chair will take the stage and address the importance and relevance of the Cylinder Society at the AIMCAL Executive Leadership Conference. Nominations for the year class of 2022 must be received no later than August 26th, 2022. See the list of Cylinder Society members at: Cylinder Society Members – GAA The nomination form is available for download: gaa.org/download/2022-golden-cylinder-nomination/

“Ask the Gravure Experts” is a feature where members from the GAA Committee will review your question and reply directly to you and publish the question-and-answer in the next issue of GravurExchange. One of the important benefits of being part of an association is the ability to network with members, and the “Ask the Gravure Experts” provides the opportunity to all readers of the GravurExchange to network. Send your question, subject line: “Gravure Experts” to info@gaa.org

If you are looking for new employees or are looking for employment, we encourage you to use the new resources on the AIMCAL website: (Jobs (aimcal.org). Members may post jobs at NO CHARGE. We invite you to see how easy it is to post jobs online today! To maximize your job posting, you should also post on the GAA website at Job Openings | Gravure Association of Americans (gaa.org)

GAA Services, Training and Products:

On-site Training/On-site Consulting:

The Gravure Textbook Sale Continues:

We continue to receive orders for the Gravure Process and Technology and the Gravure Specifications and Tolerances (GST) textbooks. They can be purchased at Shop (www.aimcal.org)

Gravure Certification:

Want to become a member?

Anyone interested in having their company become a member of this dynamic association of companies that are promoting the gravure process, please go to: Become a Member | AIMCAL

Questions? Contact AIMCAL Member Outreach Director Tim Janes at tim@aimcal.org