 The intaglio is the sole printing technology, where today the single-stage process of image transfer to the template is widely used for production of printing forms – this is digitally controlled direct engraving by mechanical or laser-based device. This technology uses the printing cylinders, where the printable areas are represented by appropriate recesses carved on the cylinder surface, which are filled with ink to be transported to the printing surface, therefore, the single-stage process here may be introduces quite easily. The computer simply controls movements of the diamond cutter or the laser beam in accordance with the information contained in the digital file of the graphical design.
 The engraved printing cylinder performs ink dosing function also, therefore, the printing control process is much simpler, and reproduction possibilities are the widest (the smaller recess, the smaller element; the deeper recess, the more saturated colour, etc.). Nevertheless, in view of production costs, preparation of intaglio printing cylinders is the most expensive, when comparing it to form production for alternative printing methods. This is also due to the fact, that after engraving cylinders are chrome-coated (usually by electroplating) in order to prolong their life-time, and then their surface is polished in order to reduce wear of the ink-removing knife and ensure clean ink removal from non-printing areas of the cylinder. The problem of production costs is being solved by developing various thin-wall shells and polymer surfaces, nevertheless, these technologies still are unfinished.
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Printing processes