Amazing Video That Gives A Good Idea Of Line Engraving.

So, in my search to understand the different types of printing, I wanted to see a video to have a better idea. Although 1847usa.com has probably the simplest explanation for someone like me:

http://www.1847usa.com/ArtOfLineEngraving.htm

Much easier to understand than Scott (For me at least).

Anyway check out this neat video, not exactly stamp printing but I believe pretty much the same idea.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQvghHs15hA

Any additional comments are welcome which would help my understanding.

Here are a few more videos for those interested:

Modern stamp printing combination of Intaglio and Offset:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2eOs9YWVK8

Another one, more or less the same as above:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vk7xhB0pZDI

And one last one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KETwb4MLKVI

Thanks for the tips and I will watch the videos when time permits. I believe, however, that nearly all modern stamp printing is by rotogravure because of the enormous volumes printed (in billions per copy). My opinion is that both 1847usa and Scott describe older and obsolete methods.

In a nutshell, digital color separations are prepared and used to electronically and digitally drive a mechanical engraver that uses a tool to create cells in the x-y directions for each and every image. Since the signal to the engraver is digital, the fidelity of each image to every other image is ensured. The engraving is in copper and the finished engraved cylinder is chrome plated for wear resistance. The most common engraving machine is the Helio-Klisshograf (sp.?).

The cell shape and volume controls the amount of ink deposited during printing and the tool shape used is based upon the screen used to prepare the color separations. The quality of the copper and the trueness of the cylinder in both length and circularity are important to both the engraving and printing processes.

This is just an overview and I have not done this for 20 years so apologize for the possible spelling error of the H-K machine and if I have been cryptic.

Donald

I did not mean to minimize the value of the 1847usa article, but attempted to describe a modern method of printing; it is well written and valuable for the study of older, classic stamps. I do think the Scott articles are quite obscure.

Donald

Yup, I assumed that too. Thanks for the insight on the modern methods although its pretty detailed for my brain.

Correct spelling: HelioKlischograph

Google the above name and the 5th line item, will take you to a great set of pictures of the machine, gravure cylinders in various stages of preparation and even of some of the tools used to do the engraving.

Donald