An empirical study on the print suitability of hybrid modulated screen and digitally modulated screen in offset printing process

Abstract

DM Screening is the advanced stochastic screening. It combines the best features of other screening technologies like AM, FM, and XM and is compatible with heat-set, cold-set and sheet-fed offset presses. The aim of this research is to identify the print suitability of hybrid modulated screen (XM) and digitally modulated screen (DM) in the offset printing process on a coated substrate by comparing different quality parameters like SID, trapping, print contrast and dot gain. Coated sample sheets are printed with the same solid ink density by using XM and DM screening to make valid comparisons. Around 150 sheets are printed to achieve the target solid ink density value (+ 0.05) during printing. After the density values are attained in accordance with standard SID values, next 50 sample sheets are printed, measured and evaluated.