Guide to Implementing Process Color Standards Released by the PrintCity Alliance
GRÖBENZELL, GERMANY—Jan. 18, 2011—PrintCity members Sun Chemical, UPM, manroland, Trelleborg and Sappi, plus alliance partners Fujifilm, GMG and Hammesfahr, have published an important new report on process color standardization.
The report is a guideline to better understand and use standardized process printing and workflow optimization. PrintCity project members have shared their combined competencies to help implement standardization, plus improve quality, consistency and productivity in offset printing.
An important part of this project was the case study on PSO implementation and certification at the printer Hammesfahr in Germany.
Key topics in this extensive new comprehensive reference for all designers, printers, packagers and print buyers include:
• Introduction: Color Management; Standards, Specifications and Implementation; Certification, Key Control Parameters; Measuring Devices and Software Tools, Frequently Asked Questions, Glossary.
• Key Influences on Quality: Print Job Preparation & Design; GCR; PDF/X; Proofing system; Plates & Processing; Press; Blankets; Maintenance & Consumables; Inks & Dampening; Paper.
• Implementing Standardization: Step-by-Step Implementation; Hammesfahr case study.
• Faster Color OKs and Troubleshooting: Managing Press OK and Makeready; Resolving Some Common Problems.
Do print buyers value standardization?
PrintCity and f:mp (Fachverband Medienproduktioner www.f-mp.de) made an assessment with German print users and designers to identify the perceived benefits from working with certified printing companies. The responses identified the three top benefits as improved quality, consistency and reduced errors.
This report will give readers a unique, cross-process overview and guidance on best practice in this complex subject area. The use of standards and methodology is an integral aspect of latest Lean & Green business thinking. It will give direct benefits in greater efficiency, higher quality, predictability & consistency for production.
Dr Bernhard Fritz, Sun Chemical Product Manager Sheetfed Systems Europe and project leader, comments, “The unique advantages from this comprehensive ‘Process Colour Standards’ report include its ‘full value chain’ process overview, review of standards and methods, the case study with Hammesfahr and research work conducted together with the f:mp. We believe it is a ‘must read’ reference document for sheetfed and heatset web printers.”
This new publication can be obtained from any participating project member, or ordered online.
Source: Print City.