A Review of Various Print Quality Related Factors in Drop-On-Demand (DOD) and Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) Printing
Abstract
The printing industry is changing rapidly, especially over the last two decades. Inkjet printing is gaining popularity due to its unique capabilities of variable data printing, personalized printing options, non-impact technology, and possible cost reduction of the final print products. Inkjet printing has evolved over time to produce very fine quality printing comparable to offset quality in a quick and cost-effective manner. The suitability of the substrates in terms of printability and runnability is considered to be more in inkjet printing in comparison with the other available printing systems, due to the flexibility offered by this ever-evolving process. This review paper summarizes different research studies carried out in the past on various print quality aspects like colour cast, colour non-uniformity, graininess, mis-registration, moiré, ink drying ability, sharpness, print consistency, runnability, banding, and dimensional stability. This review paper also includes research studies on the growth of inkjet printing and quality comparisons with traditional printing processes, emphasizing the need and importance of adopting various print standards and ink and paper interaction mechanisms to develop an understanding of the key aspects of inkjet printing systems.
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