BOBST’s oneECG technology is enabling converters to achieve metallic finishes in gravure printing using a fixed set of process inks, a development positioned to streamline production and improve sustainability in flexible packaging.
Introduced in 2019, oneECG (Extended Color Gamut) standardizes gravure printing with a fixed ink palette, reducing the need for spot colors and frequent ink changes. This approach facilitates faster setups, less material waste, and more consistent color reproduction over time. The technology supports converters in managing shorter print runs, increased SKU variation, and faster design cycles, without compromising print quality.
A key innovation is the ability to print metallic hues—such as gold, silver, and bronze—without using traditional metallic spot inks. These effects are digitally reproduced in prepress using existing inks on press, eliminating the need for additional cylinders and ink changes between jobs. This enhances workflow efficiency and shortens delivery times.
Environmental considerations are central to the system. Conventional metallic inks often contain high levels of metallic pigments and contribute to higher solvent use and VOC emissions. By reducing the use of specialty inks and limiting color changes, oneECG cuts chemical waste and improves recyclability.
Italian flexible packaging converter Poplast has integrated metallic printing into its oneECG workflow, using its Pop7+1 process. The company reports improved turnaround times, greater design flexibility, and enhanced packaging appearance without increasing production costs.
Davide Garavaglia, General Manager and Head of Product Lines Gravure, Vacuum Coating & Laminating at BOBST, stated: “Innovation, such as offering the ability to reproduce metallic colors with greater ease, less waste and cost effectively, is crucial for the future of gravure.”