K Mean Black

• Name: B.Tech 4rd Year
• Branch: B.Tech Printing Technology 7th Sem
• Published: Oct. 2, 2025

Advancement in Printing

UNIT-1

1. Inkjet Printing

Introduction:

• Inkjet printing is a non-contact printing technology where tiny droplets of ink are sprayed directly onto a substrate to form an image or text.
• Widely used in desktop printing, packaging, textiles, and industrial marking.

Working Principle:

1. Ink Reservoir: Holds liquid ink.

2. Nozzles: Micro-nozzles eject droplets onto the substrate.

3. Droplet Formation: Two main types:

• Thermal Inkjet: Heats ink to create vapor bubble, forcing a droplet out.
• Piezoelectric Inkjet: Piezo crystal changes shape when voltage is applied, ejecting ink.

4. Substrate Movement: Paper or material moves to create the full image.

Advantages:

• High-resolution printing (up to 1200 dpi or more).
• No printing plates required → suitable for short runs & variable data printing.
• Non-contact → minimal substrate damage.
• Quick setup and easy to maintain.

Disadvantages:

• Slower than offset for large-volume printing.
• Ink may be expensive.
• Limited substrate types (special coatings may be needed).
• Not suitable for very thick or uneven surfaces.

Applications:

• Desktop & office printers.
• Photo printing.
• Packaging marking and coding (batch numbers, expiry dates).
• Textile printing.
• Industrial applications: electronics, circuit boards, and 3D printing precursors.

 

2. 3D Printing

Overview:

• 3D printing (Additive Manufacturing) is the process of creating three-dimensional objects layer by layer from a digital model.
• Used in prototyping, manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, and packaging.

Working Process:

1. Design: Create a 3D model using CAD software.

2. Slicing: Software slices the model into thin layers.

3. Printing: Layer-by-layer deposition using materials (plastic, metal, resin).

4. Post-Processing: Curing, finishing, or support material removal.

Common 3D Printing Technologies:

• FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling): Melts thermoplastic filament to form layers.
• SLA (Stereolithography): Uses UV light to cure liquid resin layer by layer.
• SLS (Selective Laser Sintering): Uses laser to fuse powdered material.

Materials Used:

• Thermoplastics: PLA, ABS, PETG
• Metals: Stainless steel, titanium, aluminum
• Resins: Photopolymer resins
• Ceramics, composites, and bioprinting materials

Applications:

• Rapid prototyping for design & packaging.
• Custom tooling and molds.
• Medical implants and prosthetics.
• Automotive and aerospace parts.
• Customized packaging and product prototypes.

 

3. 4D Printing

Overview:

• 4D printing is an advanced version of 3D printing where printed objects can change shape or properties over time in response to external stimuli.

Working Process:

1. Material Selection: Use smart materials that react to heat, light, moisture, or pH.

2. Printing: Similar to 3D printing, but using programmable materials.

3. Transformation: After printing, the object can self-assemble, fold, expand, or move when triggered.

Materials Used:

• Shape-memory polymers (SMPs)
• Hydrogels
• Composite materials with programmable structures

Applications:

• Self-assembling packaging materials
• Medical devices (stents, implants that expand in the body)
• Smart textiles and adaptive structures
• Aerospace and robotics for dynamic components

 

Digital Printing

Introduction:

• Digital printing is the process of printing directly from a digital file (PDF, CAD, or image) onto a substrate without the use of printing plates.
• Unlike conventional printing, it allows on-demand, short-run printing with variable data.
• Commonly used for packaging, labels, brochures, and customized products.

 

Process of Digital Printing:

1. Design & Prepress:

• Create artwork in CAD, Adobe Illustrator, or InDesign.
• Convert to appropriate file format (PDF/X, TIFF).

2. Rip & Screening:

• Raster Image Processing (RIP) converts digital file into a raster image for printing.

3. Printing:

• Ink or toner is applied directly to the substrate via electrophotography or inkjet technology.

4. Finishing:

• Coating, lamination, cutting, folding, or die-cutting as required.

 

Advantages of Digital Printing:

• No plates required: Reduces setup time and cost.
• Short-run & on-demand printing: Cost-effective for small quantities.
• Variable Data Printing (VDP): Personalized printing for marketing campaigns.
• Quick turnaround: Fast setup and immediate printing.
• High-resolution output: Precise images and text.

 

Disadvantages of Digital Printing:

• Higher cost per unit for large volumes compared to offset.
• Limited substrate compatibility: Thick, textured, or heat-sensitive materials may require special handling.
• Color matching challenges: Pantone colors may not always be accurately reproduced.
• Durability: Toner or ink adhesion may be lower than conventional printing without coating or finishing.

 

Types of Digital Printing Processes:

Type	Principle	Key Use
Electrophotography (Laser/LED)	Toner is transferred electrostatically onto the substrate and fused with heat	Office printing, labels, packaging, books
Inkjet Printing	Tiny droplets of ink are ejected directly onto substrate	Labels, packaging, textiles, promotional products
Thermal Transfer	Heat transfers pigment from a ribbon onto the substrate	Barcodes, ID cards, flexible packaging
UV Digital Printing	UV-curable inks are cured with UV light	Packaging, rigid substrates, specialty printing

 

2. Hybrid Printing

Introduction:

• Hybrid printing combines conventional printing methods (offset, gravure, flexography) with digital printing technologies.
• Goal: Leverage high-speed production of conventional printing with flexibility of digital printing.

 

Hybrid Printing Process:

1. Prepress & Design: Artwork is prepared for both digital and conventional printing stages.

2. Conventional Printing Stage: Base layers, backgrounds, and large-volume graphics are printed using offset, gravure, or flexography.

3. Digital Printing Stage: Variable data, personalization, numbering, short-run modifications, or spot graphics are added.

4. Finishing: Lamination, varnishing, die-cutting, and packaging.

 

Advantages of Hybrid Printing:

• Combines high-speed production with personalization.
• Cost-effective for medium-volume, customized printing.
• Reduces inventory by enabling print-on-demand.
• Better color control and print quality for complex designs.

 

Types of Hybrid Printing Integration:

Hybrid Type	Conventional + Digital Combination	Application
Offset + Digital	Offset for base print; digital for personalization	Packaging, greeting cards, promotional materials
Flexography + Digital	Flexo for substrate and large areas; digital for numbering or graphics	Labels, flexible packaging
Gravure + Digital	Gravure for high-volume color; digital for variable content	Magazines, premium packaging
NIP (New Innovative Printing) Hybrid	Incorporates novel inkjet, electrophotography, or other emerging tech with conventional presses	Personalized packaging, limited edition print

 

 

UNIT-2

Introduction to Security Printing

Security Printing refers to printing methods and technologies used to protect documents, currency, and products from counterfeiting, tampering, or unauthorized reproduction.

Applications:

• Currency notes, coins, and bank drafts
• Passports, ID cards, and visas
• Certificates, diplomas, and government documents
• Product packaging (pharmaceuticals, luxury goods)
• Tickets (airline, lottery, events)

Objective:

• Ensure authenticity, traceability, and tamper-resistance.
• Make reproduction extremely difficult or detectable if attempted.

 

Advanced Security Printing Features

Security features are classified into overt, covert, and forensic features based on visibility and complexity:

Feature Type	Description	Examples / Application
Watermarks	Patterns embedded in paper during manufacture, visible when held against light	Banknotes, certificates
Microprinting	Extremely small text or lines not readable without magnification	Currency, checks, stock certificates
Holograms	Multi-dimensional reflective images, difficult to reproduce	Credit cards, passports, packaging seals
Intaglio Printing / Raised Printing	Engraved printing giving tactile feel	Banknotes, high-value stamps
Security Threads	Embedded or windowed metallic threads in paper	Currency notes
Fluorescent Inks / UV Features	Visible only under UV light	Event tickets, security labels
Color-Shifting Inks	Change color when viewed at different angles	Currency and high-value packaging
Invisible / Covert Features	Hidden images, barcodes, or QR codes for verification	Certificates, product authentication
Serial Numbers & Barcodes	Unique identification for each item	Passports, lottery tickets, pharmaceuticals
Guilloche Patterns	Intricate geometric line patterns, difficult to copy	Banknotes, bonds, certificates
Thermochromic Inks	Color changes with temperature	Pharmaceutical packaging, security labels
Chemical / Water-sensitive Inks	Ink changes or disappears on tampering	Cheque printing, secure documents
Laser Perforation	Tiny perforations forming patterns or codes	Airline tickets, certificates
Digital / RFID Tags	Embedded electronic tags for authentication	Smart passports, supply chain security
Anti-copy / Anti-scan Features	Patterns that distort when photocopied or scanned	Tickets, vouchers, brand packaging

 

Categories of Security Printing Features

1. Overt Features: Visible to naked eye

• Holograms, color-shifting inks, watermarks, serial numbers

2. Covert Features: Require special tools to verify

• UV inks, microprinting, invisible inks, fluorescent fibers

3. Forensic / Intrinsic Features: Detectable under lab testing

• Chemical markers, DNA tagging, embedded microfibers

 

Benefits of Advanced Security Printing

• Prevents counterfeiting and forgery of currency and documents.
• Enhances consumer trust in branded products and official documents.
• Ensures traceability and authentication through serial numbers and RFID tags.
• Reduces financial and brand losses due to fraud.
• Supports legal compliance for government and corporate documentation.

 

Introduction to Imaging Technologies

Imaging technologies in printing refer to methods that transfer digital artwork directly onto printing surfaces (plates, screens, or cylinders) without intermediate film, improving efficiency, precision, and print quality.

Objectives:

• Reduce prepress time and errors
• Improve registration and image fidelity
• Enable short-run and variable data printing
• Minimize chemical use and waste

 

Computer-to-Plate (CTP)

Definition:

• CTP is a technology where the digital image is transferred directly from the computer to a printing plate without using photographic films.

Working Principle:

1. Digital file is processed through RIP (Raster Image Processor).
2. Laser or thermal imaging exposes the plate, creating the printing area.
3. Plate is mounted on the press for offset printing.

Advantages:

• Eliminates film → reduces cost and errors
• Higher image quality and registration
• Faster prepress workflow
• Eco-friendly (less chemical usage)

Applications:

• Commercial offset printing, packaging, magazines, labels

 

Computer-to-Press (CTP / Direct Imaging)

Definition:

• Direct imaging allows the digital file to be sent directly to the press, eliminating separate plate creation.

Methods:

1. Direct Plate Imaging: Presses with inbuilt plate imaging system.

2. Digital Printing Presses: Inkjet or electrophotographic presses that print directly from digital files.

Advantages:

• Extremely short turnaround time
• Suitable for on-demand printing and variable data
• Minimal human intervention and fewer errors

Applications:

• Variable data printing, packaging, labels, short-run publications

 

Computer-to-Cylinder (CTC)

Definition:

• CTC technology transfers a digital image directly onto printing cylinders used in gravure, flexography, or embossing.

Working Principle:

1. Digital artwork is processed in RIP.

2. Laser or electroplating techniques engrave the image onto the cylinder surface.

3. Cylinder is mounted on the press for high-volume printing.

Advantages:

• Eliminates intermediate films and etching
• High-resolution and repeatable images
• Suitable for long-run packaging and high-quality graphics

 

Computer-to-Screen (CTS)

Definition:

• CTS technology is used in screen printing, where the digital image is transferred directly to the screen mesh.

Working Principle:

1. Digital file is RIP processed.

2. Laser exposes the photosensitive emulsion on the screen.

3. Screen is used to print designs on textiles, packaging, or labels.

Advantages:

• Eliminates manual stencil making
• Faster setup for multiple colors
• Precise registration and high-quality images

Applications:

• Textile printing, decorative packaging, industrial screen printing

 

Square Spot Dot Technology

Definition:

• Traditional halftone dots are round, but Square Spot Dot (SSD) Technology uses square or rectangular dots for halftone reproduction.

Advantages:

• Better coverage and tone uniformity in highlight and shadow areas
• Higher ink density without dot gain issues
• Improved image sharpness and detail
• Compatible with CTP and digital workflows

Applications:

• High-quality commercial printing
• Packaging with fine details, gradients, and photographic images

 

UNIT-3

Concept of Colour Management

Colour Management is a systematic approach to control and reproduce consistent and accurate colours across different devices (monitors, printers, cameras, and presses).

Objectives:

• Ensure that colours on the digital file match the printed output.
• Minimize colour variations between devices and substrates.
• Standardize colour for branding and product consistency.

 

Colour Calibration

Definition:

• The process of adjusting devices to produce accurate and consistent colours.

Steps:

1. Monitor Calibration: Adjust brightness, contrast, gamma, and white point using hardware tools (colorimeters).

2. Printer Calibration: Print test charts, measure colour output, and adjust settings.

3. Scanner Calibration: Ensure scanned images maintain accurate colour representation.

Benefits:

• Accurate preview of print output on-screen.
• Reduces reprints and waste.
• Maintains colour consistency across multiple devices.

 

Colour Management Software (CMS)

Definition:

• Software that controls and standardizes colour reproduction by managing ICC profiles and device settings.

Popular CMS Tools:

• Adobe Photoshop / Illustrator – Built-in colour management features.
• X-Rite i1Profiler – For monitor and printer profiling.
• GMG Color – For packaging and proofing workflows.

Functions:

• Device calibration and profiling
• Conversion between colour spaces
• Soft-proofing for accurate digital previews

 

Colour Matching Techniques

Methods used to achieve consistent colour across devices:

1. Visual Matching: Comparing printed samples to originals; subjective and less precise.

2. Instrumental Matching: Using spectrophotometers or colorimeters to measure and reproduce colour.

3. Profile-Based Matching: Using ICC profiles to convert colours accurately between devices.

4. Pantone Matching System (PMS): Standardized colour guides for spot colours in packaging and branding.

 

Colour Models

Colour models are mathematical representations of colour:

Colour Model	Description	Applications
RGB	Red, Green, Blue; additive colour	Monitors, digital screens, cameras
CMYK	Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black; subtractive colour	Printing (offset, digital, flexo)
Lab / CIE	Lightness (L), a (green-red), b (blue-yellow); device-independent	Colour conversion, accurate measurement
HSB / HSL	Hue, Saturation, Brightness/Lightness	Graphic design and image editing

 

ICC Profiles

Definition:

• ICC (International Colour Consortium) profiles are device-specific data files that describe how a device reproduces colour.

Types of ICC Profiles:

• Input Profiles: Scanner, camera
• Display Profiles: Monitor
• Output Profiles: Printers, presses

Purpose:

• Standardizes colour translation across devices
• Ensures that colours appear the same on different devices (soft-proofing and printing)

 

Colour Management Workflow

Typical Workflow in Printing:

1. Source Image Preparation: RGB or Lab colour images

2. Device Profiling: Calibrate scanner, monitor, printer

3. Colour Conversion: Convert from source colour space to target device (e.g., RGB → CMYK) using ICC profiles

4. Soft Proofing: Preview final print on calibrated monitor

5. Printing & Proofing: Print sample and adjust colour if required

6. Final Print Production: Maintain consistent colour across batches

Diagram of Workflow (Simplified):

Digital File → CMS → Device Calibration → ICC Profile Conversion → Soft Proofing → Printing → Output Verification

 

8. ISO Standards for Colour Management

• ISO 12647: Process control for printing (offset, gravure, flexography, digital)
• ISO 3664: Viewing conditions for colour assessment
• ISO 13655: Measurement of colour on reflective and transmissive media
• ISO 15076: ICC colour management specification

 

9. Equipment Used for Colour Management

Equipment	Purpose
Spectrophotometer	Measures colour on printed samples
Colorimeter	Monitors calibration and verification
Densitometer	Measures ink density on press
Monitor Calibration Device	Calibrates display for accurate preview
Digital Proofing System	Soft-proof and hard-proof verification of final output
Light Booth / Viewing Cabinet	Standardized lighting conditions for visual assessment

 

10. Key Takeaways

• Colour management ensures consistent, accurate, and reproducible colours from digital file to final print.
• Calibration, profiling, and ICC workflows are central to modern print production.
• Colour models (RGB, CMYK, Lab) and matching techniques help maintain brand integrity.
• ISO standards provide guidelines for colour measurement, viewing, and process control.
• Proper equipment (spectrophotometers, colorimeters, proofing systems) is essential for effective colour management.

 

Advanced DTP Software

Definition:

• DTP (Desktop Publishing) software is used to design, layout, and prepare print-ready documents.
• Advanced DTP software integrates prepress, colour management, and workflow automation.

Popular Advanced DTP Software:

Software	Introduction	Applications
Adobe InDesign	Professional page layout and design software	Magazines, brochures, books, packaging design
QuarkXPress	Powerful layout and typesetting tool	Newspapers, books, packaging
CorelDraw	Vector graphics and illustration software	Labels, flexo/packaging graphics, signage
Affinity Publisher	Modern, cost-effective layout software	Books, brochures, marketing materials
Scribus	Open-source DTP tool	Small-scale publications and e-publishing

Applications of Advanced DTP Software:

• Page layout and typography management
• Vector and raster graphics integration
• Multi-page document handling
• Preflight checking and PDF/X export for print
• Colour management integration (ICC profiles, CMYK conversion)

 

RIP Software (Raster Image Processor)

Definition:

• RIP software converts vector or page layout data into raster images that can be understood by digital presses, platesetters, or CTP/CTF systems.

Functions:

• Converts PostScript, PDF, or TIFF files into high-resolution raster files
• Manages colour separations, halftone screening, trapping, and resolution adjustments
• Integrates with workflow automation and print management

Popular RIP Software:

• EFI Fiery – Digital presses and variable data printing
• Esko RIP – Packaging and flexo printing
• Agfa Apogee – High-volume CTP workflow integration

 

CIP3 (Computer Integrated Prepress, Press, and Postpress)

Definition:

• CIP3 is a standard for digital data exchange between prepress and press systems.
• The standard uses JDF/JMF (Job Definition Format / Job Messaging Format) to transfer information such as colour separations, imposition, and ink coverage.

Applications:

• Automates ink estimation and press setup
• Reduces human errors and press make-ready time
• Enables integration between prepress and conventional/offset presses

 

CIP4 (Job Definition Format - JDF)

Definition:

• CIP4 builds on CIP3 and introduces comprehensive workflow automation using JDF standard.
• JDF integrates prepress, press, and postpress processes, including finishing.

Advantages:

• Real-time monitoring and management of print jobs
• Enhanced workflow automation and data exchange
• Reduces paper, ink, and production waste
• Supports multivendor interoperability

Applications:

• Print production houses, packaging, label printing, newspaper production

 

G7 Specification

Definition:

• G7 is an ISO-based standard for grayscale colour reproduction in printing.
• Developed by IDEAlliance, it focuses on achieving visual consistency across different devices and substrates.

Key Features:

• Based on neutral grey balance rather than only CMYK percentages
• Ensures consistent tonal reproduction and visual density across multiple presses
• Used for proofing, contract proofs, and print production verification

Benefits:

• Reduces colour variation between different presses and production runs
• Provides a common visual benchmark for printing companies, brands, and designers
• Enhances print quality for high-end packaging, magazines, and commercial printing

 

UNIT-4

Concept of IoT

Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity that enables them to collect, exchange, and analyze data over the internet.

Key Characteristics:

• Connectivity between devices and systems
• Data collection and real-time monitoring
• Automation and remote control
• Intelligence through data analytics and AI

Examples in everyday life:

• Smart home devices (thermostats, lights)
• Wearables (fitness trackers)
• Connected vehicles and industrial machinery

 

Applications of IoT in Printing

IoT can revolutionize the printing and packaging industry by connecting machines, processes, and supply chains for greater efficiency:

IoT Application	Description	Benefits
Smart Presses	Printing presses equipped with sensors for temperature, ink density, and speed	Real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, reduced downtime
Remote Workflow Management	Cloud-connected devices manage jobs, approvals, and scheduling	Increased efficiency, reduced manual intervention
Inventory & Material Management	Sensors track paper, ink, and substrates	Just-in-time inventory, reduced waste
Predictive Maintenance	Sensors detect wear and tear on rollers, motors, or dryers	Reduces unplanned downtime and maintenance costs
Quality Monitoring	Inline cameras and sensors detect misprints, colour variations, or defects	Consistent print quality, less rework
Packaging & Label Tracking	RFID or barcode-enabled IoT devices track printed packaging	Supply chain traceability and anti-counterfeiting
Energy Management	IoT monitors energy consumption of machines	Optimized energy use, cost savings, and reduced carbon footprint
Customer Interaction	Connected devices allow remote order status, print customization, and data analytics	Improved customer service and personalized printing

 

Scope of IoT in Printing

1. Digital Printing Presses:

• Real-time print monitoring, automatic calibration, and predictive analytics.

2. Packaging Industry:

• Smart labels, QR codes, and RFID tags integrated with IoT for tracking, anti-counterfeit, and logistics optimization.

3. Supply Chain & Inventory:

• IoT sensors can monitor stock levels of paper, ink, and substrates, reducing wastage and downtime.

4. Maintenance & Efficiency:

• Data from connected machines allows predictive maintenance, process optimization, and minimized energy consumption.

5. Integration with ERP & Cloud Systems:

• IoT-enabled presses and finishing equipment can automatically communicate production data to centralized systems for better decision-making.

 

IoT and Sustainability in Printing

IoT promotes sustainable practices in the printing and packaging industry:

Area	IoT Contribution	Sustainability Benefit
Energy Efficiency	Monitors and optimizes machine energy use	Reduced carbon footprint and energy costs
Waste Minimization	Tracks ink usage, paper waste, and rejects	Less material waste and reprints
Resource Optimization	Just-in-time inventory management	Reduces overproduction and storage needs
Preventive Maintenance	Reduces machine failure and downtime	Minimizes energy-intensive emergency repairs
Smart Packaging	IoT-enabled recyclable packaging and tracking	Promotes circular economy and traceability

Example:

• A connected press can automatically adjust ink density, substrate feed, and dryer settings based on real-time sensor data, reducing paper and ink waste while saving energy.

 

Green Printing

Definition:

• Green printing focuses on environmentally friendly printing practices that reduce energy, water, and chemical consumption.

Key Practices:

• Use of soy-based or vegetable inks instead of petroleum-based inks.
• Recycled or FSC-certified papers.
• Digital or on-demand printing to reduce waste.
• Energy-efficient machinery and waste minimization.

Benefits:

• Reduced environmental impact
• Compliance with environmental regulations
• Enhanced brand image

 

Erasable Printing Technology

Definition:

• Printing technology where printed text or images can be erased and reused.

Applications:

• Reusable calendars, notebooks, and educational materials
• Temporary labels and packaging

Technology:

• Special thermochromic or photochromic inks that can be erased by heat or UV light

 

Online Printing Platforms

Definition:

• Web-based platforms that allow customers to design, customize, and order printed products online.

Features:

• Template-based design tools
• Real-time proofing
• Instant price calculation
• Direct ordering and shipping

Examples:

• Vistaprint, Printful, Moo.com

Benefits:

• Convenience and accessibility
• Personalized products
• Reduced need for in-person interactions

 

Augmented Reality (AR) in Printing

Definition:

• AR integrates digital content with printed materials to create interactive experiences.

Applications:

• Product packaging with scannable AR content (videos, instructions, games)
• Marketing brochures, magazines, and posters
• Education and interactive books

Benefits:

• Engages customers and enhances marketing impact
• Adds digital layer to physical print

 

Concept of Yellow Bar

Definition:

• In newspaper printing, the yellow bar is a visual marking on the edge of a printed newspaper indicating the end of the page or section.

Purpose:

• Helps press operators identify page position and alignment
• Quality control in high-speed web printing

 

Printed Electronics

Definition:

• The integration of electronic components directly onto substrates using printing techniques.

Applications:

• RFID tags and smart packaging
• Flexible displays and sensors
• Wearable electronics and health monitors

Technologies:

• Inkjet printing with conductive inks (silver, carbon)
• Screen printing and roll-to-roll processes

 

DI (Direct Imaging) Presses

Definition:

• Direct Imaging presses transfer digital images directly onto the printing plate or press cylinder, eliminating film-based processes.

Applications:

• High-quality commercial and packaging printing
• Variable data printing

Benefits:

• Faster setup
• Reduced errors and prepress steps
• Better colour consistency

 

Lenticular Printing

Definition:

• A printing technology that creates images with an illusion of depth or motion when viewed from different angles.

Applications:

• 3D postcards, packaging, point-of-sale displays
• Animated graphics for advertising

Technology:

• Printed interlaced images + lenticular lens sheet

 

Customized Printing

Definition:

• Printing tailored to individual customer requirements, including content, size, colour, or design.

Applications:

• Personalized gifts, labels, packaging, books
• Variable data printing for marketing

Benefits:

• Enhanced customer engagement
• Reduced overproduction
• Supports on-demand business models

 

Hybrid Printing

Definition:

• Combines conventional printing methods (offset, flexography, gravure) with digital printing to leverage both speed and personalization.

Applications:

• Short- to medium-run packaging
• Personalized promotional materials
• Labels with spot graphics and numbering

Benefits:

• Cost-efficient for medium runs
• High-quality base print + digital personalization
• Reduced waste and inventory