Brummen, The Netherlands – Ink logistics solutions provider GSE introduces new Windows 10-based automation controls on its Colorsat dispensing systems and enhances its ‘Ink manager’ software package with new reporting, scheduling, and machine connectivity features. To be presented for the first time at Labelexpo Europe 2019 (stand 7D59), GSE’s latest software introductions enable packaging and label converters to manage inks with greater efficiency, security, accuracy and flexibility at all stages in the workflow, including purchasing, mixing, returning and reusing.

“The introduction of Windows 10-based controls in combination with the new software version mean GSE Colorsat dispensing systems can connect more easily with other machines and software packages, reducing human input and the risk of error,” says Maarten Hummelen, marketing director, GSE. “The enhanced controls feature a more compact design and fewer parts, meaning easier and more efficient maintenance, and come with at least 10 years of security updates. We have also designed a Windows 10 upgrade package so our current Colorsat equipment users can benefit from state-of-the-art controls technology.”

The controls’ pneumatics have greater robustness while the same pneumatic valves are common to all dispensers in the Colorsat programme. Its design enables improved responsiveness for more accurate dispensing and thus greater colour accuracy.

GSE has also added integration and reporting features to its GSE Ink manager software, the comprehensive solution for ink-related waste reduction and business planning in the printing house.

“GSE Ink manager version 5.1 features new reports that provide more information about performance of the ink management system, allowing users to continuously improve their workflows,” says Hummelen.

The new version can create data about ink stocks when they are booked in after purchasing or returned from the press, containing easily retrievable information such as expiry date, supplier, batch code, amounts used per job, providing greater traceability of inks at every step in the process and more accurate job costings. There are options for controlling automatic conveyors, blenders and agitators and scheduling ink blending times per formula. It also comes with new grid features like filter rows, search boxes and sum lines.

Additionally, GSE Ink manager offers greater modularity, with more options such as integrated data export, ink returns, order management, traceability and supply chain management, so users may specify the software solution suited to their business needs.

GSE invites converters to live demonstrations of its controls and software enhancements, taking place daily at its Labelexpo Europe 2019 stand, with the possibility of one-to-one presentations on request.

Maarten Hummelen comments: “The supply chain demands for shorter production runs, traceability and shorter lead times mean that packaging and label converters must not only drive out waste from workflows, but accelerate processes, with manual intervention limited to higher-value activities wherever possible. GSE’s software developments are focused on solving these challenges, simplifying processes and providing converters with smarter ways of achieving repeatable quality, with more flexibility.”

GSE’s Colorsat range of dispensing systems provide fast, accurate mixing and dispensing of flexo, gravure and screen inks for label and packaging applications. UV, aqueous and solvent inks are covered. Benefits are reduced setup times, 30 percent ink-yield improvements, a cleaner ink kitchen and better stock management. For labels, the Colorsat Switch (using exchangeable buckets) and Colorsat Match (fixed refillable storage tanks), dispense in 1kg – 10kg volumes.