With increasing demand for high quality graphics on corrugated, preprinting of paper before it is used to make corrugated has given the best results. Cost factors limit this approach to high volume runs which also require more response time. To achieve faster response times and to make smaller runs, more interest is being given to postprinting of the corrugated. This article reviews the factors that affect print quality including the press, roller, inking system, printing plates, backing tape, ink and corrugated. Not to be overlooked are the press operators and good working relationships with suppliers. This article reviews factors controlled by the inkmaker, viscosity profiles, ink transfer, ink trapping and color sequence, ink drying speed, and rub and slip properties.

Source: FLEXO, January 1998, pages 59-61
Author: Michael Simoni