The future’s not orange: Global Graphics’ screening will prevent “orange peel” effects
Global Graphics has developed software that can correct common output quality problems in inkjet printing in labels, packaging and wide-format applications.
The RIP developer’s Advanced Inkjet Screens tackle two different problems that can occur in single-pass inkjet-printed work, particularly on narrow-web UV presses as found commonly in label printing, and which are related to the absorbency of the substrate and the way that ink behaves once it reaches it. The technology also has applications in digital printing of corrugated board and in wide-format multi-pass printers.
The Pearl screen compensates for streaking effects that arise with more-or-less absorbent surfaces (typically paper) and which appear in half- and three-quarter tone areas. The Mirror screen addresses the “orange peel” effect that’s seen on non-absorbent or poorly wetting surfaces such as cans or flexible packaging. Although the latter mostly occurs with UV-cured inks, Global Graphics CTO Martin Bailey said while speaking to Digital Printer that similar effects can occur with aqueous inks on glossy pre-coated stocks.
The screening technology will reach end-users via Global Graphics’ OEM customers and is already available in some products, with more to follow. It is also retro-fittable to existing RIPs/DFEs. This isn’t limited to Global Graphics Harlequin implementations, but applies to any Adobe PDF RIP, including Esko DFEs.
Product manager Tom Mooney also suggested that the screening software will open up new applications on substrates on which it is presently difficult to achieve acceptable quality.
