Hazing (Gravure)

Background white is hazed with red.

In gravure printing, the hazing issue is an unwanted dull/milky or slightly “smudged” appearance (loss of local gloss / fine, diffuse light scattering) on the printed area.

Causes (C) and Solutions (S) of Hazing

Doctor Blade Problems

C: Blade angle is too flat

S: Increase the blade angle

C: Excessive blade contact pressure

S: Reduce blade pressure

Ink Properties

C: high viscosity ink

S: Reduce viscosity with proper solvent, and filter the ink

C: Ink is too slow dry

S: Add fast evaporating solvent or install additional air knives

C: Ink is excess pigmented

S: Reduce pigment load with extender

Cylinder Issues

C: Incorrect roughness of the printing cylinder

S: polish the cylinder land area or have the cylinder re-polished/plated

Environment Issues

C: High relative humidity

S: Reduce pressroom humidity with dehumidifiers

Other Factors

C: Improper web tension

S: Ensure rollers are clean and aligned

C: Poorly finished or damaged impression cylinder

S: Remove small burrs by professional polishing if possible

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