BURLINGTON, MASS -- September 28, 2006 -- Nancy Plowman Associates, Inc. (NPA) today announced that their 3-day “Printability Seminar” will be held this year from Tuesday, October 24th to Thursday the 26th at their headquarter facility in Burlington Massachusetts. The seminar, which is targeted at both novices and experienced commercial and in-plant printers, examines the finer aspects of the ink-paper-press dynamics to show attendees in a classroom environment how they can produce more consistent and higher-quality color. From basic introduction of printing systems to advanced color theory and testing processes, the Printability Seminar focuses upon real-world applications that can (and should be) applied in all print businesses today. The classroom style restricts class sizes, so space is limited. For more information, go to http://www.npatest.com/Atraining_seminars.html or call 888-NPA-TEST or 781-272-7410. Nancy Plowman Quote “The Printability Seminars are the most in-depth hands-on educational outlet available,” notes Nancy Plowman, President and Founder, NPA. “For three days, our staff delves into the offset and web press technology and how it’s impacted by paper, ink and UV technology. We discuss trouble-shooting techniques and conduct lab demonstrations and hands-on instruction. After 20 hours of classroom and lab work, attendees are able to better handle complaints, implement quality-control tactics and have a superior understanding of the dynamics of paper, ink, and their own press. But more importantly, the real benefits are not realized until the following week when they go back to their own print businesses and can make an immediate difference.” Quotes from Past Attendees The following are quotes taken anonymously from students at the conclusion of the course: “Overall, my understanding offset printing and paper testing for offset printability has greatly improved… the course was excellent.” “I feel you and your staff did a great job presenting the vast amount of information you compiled for this seminar. I can better understand the tests you perform on the paper samples we send you.” “Overall excellent seminar… excellent organization.” “It felt good to be in the hands of experts who dealt with real issues.” Printability Seminar Focus The seminar focuses upon four critical arenas of interest: - Introduction & The Printing System: This includes printing methods/current trends in board printing, the color story, ink formulation, ink oils, fountain solutions, and blankets; - Ink Testing Methods: Investigates and explains ink tack, percentage VOC content, pigment strength, density and color measurements, density versus film thickness and trap measurements; - Paper & Ink Testing Methods: Analyzes the paper and ink stability test (an alternative measurement for tack), measuring ink setting rates (paper and ink combinations), ink setting vs. ink drying, water (fountain solution) sensitivity of papers, mottle test (uniformity of ink oil absorption), different types of print mottle (gloss, backtrap, water sensitivity, wet ink trapping and aqueous coating mottle), and UV coating technology and applications (flexo vs offset); - Complaint Documentation and Problem Solving: Test Forms and how to interpret color bars/grids, and troubleshooting on press and sample acquisition. Availability and Pricing Classes are limited to ensure maximum value of instruction. Pricing is set at $900 per student, though companies sending 3 or more attendees are eligible for a group discount. Payment can be made via check or a PO number for invoices. An RSVP, to secure a spot, should be forwarded to Jeff Jacques ([email protected]). For companywide education and instruction, NPA will conduct personalized seminars at NPA’s Burlington offices or at the printer’s operation. Details are available by contacting Nate Plowman ([email protected]) directly.