IDEAlliance+IPA Study on Ink Optimization Software
ROSEMOUNT, Ill.—Results from the 2010 IDEAlliance+IPA Ink Optimization RoundUP were released June 9 during the 45th annual Technical Conference. The 2010 Ink Optimization RoundUP study compared leading ink optimization software systems in terms of total ink reduction, color change, stability on press, file integrity, and the individual features of each solution. Results of the independent examination, led by Dr. Abhay Sharma, Ryerson University, and Ben Starr, reported ink savings in print production between 17 percent to 30 percent, with limited or no reduction in print quality, recast of color, mis-registration, or instability during printing variations. The 69-page results book, complete with printed samples submitted from each participating supplier, is available.
“Ink optimization technology is a great tool for both printers and print buyers to use for continued improvement in producing quality products, being as ‘green as possible,’ and keeping an eye on the bottom line,” noted Joe Fazzi, vice president print media at IDEAlliance. “IDEAlliance is committed to bringing these types of technology forums to the forefront of the industry.”
The Ink Optimization RoundUP examined 11 supplier systems:
• Agfa :Apogee InkSave
• Alwan CMYK Optimizer ECO
• Beijing Founder EcoInk
• CGS ORIS INK SAVER
• FineEye ICEserver Litho
• GMG InkOptimizer
• KODAK COLORFLOW software with Ink Optimization option
• MPX360 Colorserver
• OneVision PlugINKSAVEin
• ppi Media InkReduction
• TGLC PerfX Pro and PerfX DeviceLink Pro
Key findings of the study suggest that the price of ink optimization solutions can vary from $8,500 to $23,000 and provide between 17-30 percent ink savings in typical print production scenarios. In colorimetric testing, supplier systems were able to create new separations that closely mirrors the original (to less than 0.5 Delta E (2000)). Data demonstrated that ink optimized images do not show a color cast, reduce the visibility of any mis-registration, and are more stable during printing variations. The tests demonstrated that ink optimized images reduce ink consumption, yet still look as good as the original. Press sheets from the test process are included in the spiral-bound report publication.
Ink Optimization software works by reducing the amount of CMY inks that are required to produce a color, replacing them with black ink. This can have advantages of lower printing costs and better handling on press. It can also have disadvantages such as color change and loss of detail in images. The study report educates users and suppliers on the important benefits of ink optimization. The data clearly demonstrates that ink optimization has tangible benefits, provides a return-on-investment in a short-time frame and is market-ready today.
IDEAlliance + IPA will host a webinar on this topic on June 29, 2010 at 1:00 PM EST.
