New Windsor - With the introduction of GretagMacbeth Ink Formulation Version 4.0 at SGIA, ink manufacturers and printers can formulate inks more quickly and easily than ever before. This newest release incorporates an intuitive user interface, network database, user administration and Internet communications, so everyone in the ink supply chain can efficiently share color data and speed the formulation process. The math engine now provides more accurate matching for the most challenging applications such as inks for corrugated board, metal decoration, film and other packaging materials printed by offset, flexo, gravure and screen process. In addition, industry specific terminology and the modular design of the software, allows users to create a system specifically tailored for their application or special needs. Ink Formulation software V4.0 calculates an exact recipe from a known database of colorants. The color is first measured with a spectrophotometer. Once the recipe is calculated, the user can easily evaluate and control the recipe via the flexible graphical display. Recipes can be optimized for covering power which is particularly important for high opacity applications, absorbent substrates and use of concentrated inks. The reuse of ink leftovers, which are always present in any pumped system, is a very important feature because normally these are stored until a reprint is required. With GretagMacbeth's Ink Formulation system the waste ink can be used for any suitable subsequent job, thus reducing stocks and saving disposal costs. Cost savings also result from the fact that less basic colors are needed than with manual mixing due to optimal use of the different available inks. Ink stocks therefore tend to comprise increased quantities of standardized inks, but less overall colors and inventory which in turn cut extra charges for small quantities. With the new E-Recipe feature, the process of formulating, mixing, controlling and approving inks can be accomplished via the Internet, thus enables new possibilities in the formulation process. Printers can e-mail the desired color, opacity, substrate, light fastness and other requirements to the formulator, who can create the mixture and quickly return a proven recipe that the printer can then mix himself.