Agfa SolidTune Optimizes Ink Usage for Packaging Printing

[prwhite]

Agfa has announced SolidTune, a prepress software solution for printing offset packaging that reduces the amount of ink needed by an average of 3%, with improved image quality. Built on the key elements of InkTune & PressTune, SolidTune is part of Agfa’s ECO3 program.

During the last stage of the rendering process, SolidTune applies a unique algorithm to the solids & text after screening, and prior to plate imaging—ensuring the edges of solids are preserved to keep the print clean & crisp.
SolidTune Benefits:

• Faster drying,
• Improved ink distribution,
• Reduced problems with ink offsetting from one impression to the next,
• Less force on the substrate from the ink system—prevents plucking or picking of fibers from the top paper layer,
• Creates a 1-bit file for offset packaging printing, where spot colors are often printed as solids.

SolidTune is available on license in Apogee & Amfortis prepress workflows, and can be used with any screening technology, including Agfa SPIR@L.

 

[schenkadere]

Looks like it simply applies a reverse FM dot to solids.

 

[gordo]

Looks like it simply applies a reverse FM dot to solids.

Assuming that it's some form of solid screening (the linked article isn't very clear) - the notion of punching holes in solids to reduce ink usage is an old one. Here is an article I published on the topic in 2009: Ink savings using solid screening

It's a technique most often used in newspaper work where they simply screen all solids to around 97%. Dot spread fills the holes in during printing so the screened solids look solid.
Before purchasing such a vendor's proprietary solution one should evaluate the cost of the solution vs the cost of the potential volume of ink saved to see if there's any real value.

 

[schenkadere]

The notion of punching holes in solids to reduce ink usage is an old one. Here is an article I published on the topic in 2009: Ink savings using solid screening

It's a technique most often used in newspaper work where they simply screen all solids to around 97%. Dot spread fills the holes in during printing so the screened solids look solid.
Before purchasing such a vendor's proprietary solution one should evaluate the cost of the solution vs the cost of the potential volume of ink saved to see if there's any real value.

Agreed.

 

[gordo]

Not to put too fine a point on it...
Ink savings is highly image content dependent - and images can vary quite a bit. Also, in my experience most printers do not know how much ink they are consume on a per run basis so calculating savings, and therefore value, can be a challenge.
IMHO going with an FM type solution (yes even with flexo) would provide, among other benefits, a more reliable and effective way of reducing ink consumption.