Why use a colorimeter to evaluate printing quality
The core of using a colorimeter to evaluate printing quality is to achieve "objectivity, standardization, and precision" in color judgment, solve the subjective error problem of manual visual evaluation, ensure consistent color of printed products, especially suitable for mass production and brand color control needs. Specific reasons can be explored from three key dimensions.
The core of using a colorimeter to evaluate printing quality is to achieve "objectivity, standardization, and precision" in color judgment, solve the subjective error problem of manual visual evaluation, ensure consistent color of printed products, especially suitable for mass production and brand color control needs. Specific reasons can be explored from three key dimensions.
1、 Replace subjective judgment and eliminate human error
The manual visual evaluation of color is greatly influenced by the environment and personal perception, while the colorimeter can avoid subjective bias by quantifying data, which is its core value.
Avoid environmental interference
The human eye's judgment of color is influenced by light (such as natural light, lighting) and background color. For example, red printed materials tend to be orange in warm light and purple in cold light; The colorimeter comes with a standard light source (such as D65 international standard sunlight), which can measure under uniform lighting conditions, ensuring consistent measurement results at different times and locations.
Reduce individual differences
Everyone has different sensitivity and resolution to color, some are not sensitive to red deviation, while others can detect subtle differences; The colorimeter captures the RGB or Lab values of colors through optical sensors such as gratings and CCDs, and converts the "similar appearance" into specific data (such as Δ E color difference values) to avoid quality disputes caused by "judgment based on intuition".
2、 Quantify color differences to achieve precise control
One of the core requirements for printing quality is "color consistency" (such as brand logo color, packaging main color), and colorimeters can quantify color differences, making quality standards measurable and traceable.
Set clear quality thresholds
The "standard color value" of printed materials can be set in advance (such as the Lab value of brand colors). After measuring with a colorimeter, the deviation value (Δ E) between the sample and the standard color is calculated and compared with a preset threshold (such as Δ E ≤ 1.5 as qualified) to quickly determine whether it meets the standard. For example, for the red main color of food packaging, if Δ E exceeds 2, the difference can be clearly perceived by the naked eye, and the printing parameters need to be adjusted immediately.
Track color stability throughout the entire process
Before printing (ink blending), during printing (first article inspection), and after printing (finished product sampling), a colorimeter can be used to monitor color in real-time. For example, if Δ E gradually increases during printing, issues such as ink concentration, printing pressure, and drying temperature can be promptly investigated to avoid mass production of non-conforming products and reduce rework costs.
3、 Adapt to standardized production and meet industry requirements
The modern printing industry (such as packaging, books, labels) has increasingly high requirements for color consistency, and colorimeters are necessary tools for achieving standardized production and meeting customer and industry standards.
Meets industry standards and customer needs
Most industries, such as cosmetics packaging and drug labeling, have clear color standards, and some international clients may also require color difference testing reports; The data measured by the colorimeter can directly generate reports (such as CIE Lab color space data), proving that the printed matter meets the standards and enhancing customer trust.
Adapt to different printing scenarios
Whether it's flat printing (books and magazines), flexographic printing (packaging), or digital printing (personalized labels), colorimeters can adapt to the surface characteristics of different materials (such as paper, plastic, metal foil). By adjusting the measuring aperture (such as 2mm, 8mm), they can accurately capture the color of printed patterns of different sizes, avoiding measurement deviations caused by material reflection and pattern size.