Many print providers like to work in accordance with ProcessStandard Offset (ISO 12647-2) and some are even certified. However, the cost savings generated often fail to meet expectations as the printing process with its various print parameters requires manual intervention during set-up and production. KBA offers a raft of automation solutions for its Rapidas, including modules for fast inking-up and stable solid densities during production. PSO-Match is a solution which efficiently supports compliance with ProcessStandard Offset (PSO).

PSO defines the CMYK solid L*a*b* values in the printing process for various types of paper as well as dot gain in the mid-tones and its spread. In case all of the parameters cannot be maintained within the tolerances dot gain should be given a higher priority. Even the best printers are not able to check all of the parameters in each single ink zone and control the application of ink accordingly. Nevertheless, printing within the solid density tolerance and also in line with solid L*a*b* values does not mean a match with PSO. Conventional solid control systems only take into account one parameter and therefore only one comprehensive solution can guarantee permanent conformity with PSO.   

PSO-Match excels in the pressroom

This is where PSO-Match’s strengths lie. This product was launched in 2012 and has since been successfully implemented in a host of printing companies, including the new Rapida 106 at Cinram in Alsdorf, Germany.   

Measuring at the control strips is done either inline via KBA QualiTronic ColorControl – with previous external spectrophotometric calibration – or online with KBA ErgoTronic ColorControl. In a matter of seconds PSO-Match instantly analyses all parameters in each ink zone in accordance with the PSO standard selected and calculates colour corrections in every ink zone. The optimum balance is made between dot gain, spread, solid L*a*b* values and the corresponding density. This set point is then adjusted automatically within a specific tolerance range by the “best match” function. Colour correction is executed automatically (closed loop) with QualiTronic or simply by pressing a button with ErgoTronic ColorControl and ErgoTronic ColorDrive.   

PSO-Match displays the colour corrections calculated as well as the measuring values clearly on the monitor. In addition, the press operator is continuously provided with information on how the current print result compares to PSO. Eight out of a total of ten PSO parameters have to be within set limits in order for PSO-Match to verify conformity with PSO tolerances for every measurement.

Ideal for industrial quality printing

PSO-Match is the ideal solution for printing firms to match PSO’s quality standard and for those wishing to reduce makeready and waste. The press operator selects a particular PSO standard provided for different paper qualities. An optimal product is achieved after some measurements and corrections using online measuring equipment (ErgoTronic-ColorControl), which measures outside the press on the main console. After a fast referencing procedure inline control quickly leads to compliance with the selected standard and maintains it throughout an entire job using inline measuring equipment (QualiTronic-ColorControl).   

Accurate jobs printed without manual corrections in a reproducible quality lead to optimised colour presetting for future jobs. PSO-Match thus offers a good starting point for cutting waste during job set-up. This even takes place without any interruptions when used in connection with KBA QualiTronic ColorControl. A higher level of automation and excellent control strategies prevent press downtimes and manual intervention during production. On average this results in a higher press speed and reduced personnel costs.   

Depending on job size the time saved during set-up and production is three to ten minutes per job. Complaints are prevented, communication between pre-press and printing is improved, and production reliability is increased by the permanent use of the PSO-Match tool. This is in addition to potential paper and personnel savings.   

The required quality is predictable and reproducible. Resulting experiences from PSO-Match regarding the use of consumables, paper and press settings which affect the final product lead to further savings. PSO-Match is an important tool in making the printing process more efficient and predictable.