Welcome to the InkConnection Blog

The InkConnection blog is the definitive guide to managing inks in packaging, labels, wallcovering, textiles and industrial coating. It’s packed with advice for optimising every ink-related process step, with topics on dispensing, press return inks, software, proofing and more.

Dramatically cut ink consumption
Get spot colours ‘right first time’
Gain hours of production time

Become more responsive
Build the future-proof, automated ink kitchen
Focus on value creation – the ‘Lean’ way

Integrating ink management software with MIS for optimum performance!

30 Aug at 10:42

A simple interface enables seamless data exchange between your ink management software and ERP system. It’s the key to true…

Creating and adapting spot colours – made simple for package printers!

27 Jul at 11:39

The ability to add new colours and modify colour formulas is essential in the dynamic world of package printing. A…

Flexo Frühstück event at GSE

13 Jul at 14:06

Initiated by U. Günther Prepress and Follmann, the Flexo Frühstück events offer flexo printers an inspiring platform to discuss topics such as printing…

Automating the print workflow with smart ink logistics

28 Jun at 08:45

Ink management software, combined with the connectivity of the internet, is driving automation in the workflow – making converters more…

The future of Lean manufacturing in a dynamic world

30 May at 09:32

In the second and final part of our interview with two experts on Lean manufacturing, we look at strategies for…

Lean 4.0: the key to competing in unstable times

28 Apr at 12:53

In a special two-part interview by Adrian Tippetts, we explore the future of ‘Lean’ manufacturing and Industry 4.0: how can…

Modular ink dispensers provide the key to staying agile

31 Mar at 10:23

Label converters are switching to new ink sets and formulations, in response to rising operating costs, supply shortages and safety…

Meeting quality standards for packaging inks with GSE Traceability

22 Feb at 09:45

GSE Traceability software module helps the converter create traceability reports instantly, and comply with the most stringent quality standards used…

Ink traceability: the key to safety and compliance in food and pharmaceutical value chains

22 Feb at 09:45

Converters supplying end-user markets where product safety is critical must have a system for tracing ink batches to each job…

How to protect margins against rising ink prices…

26 Jan at 10:39

Why ink logistics is the key for reducing costs and strengthening competitive edge in packaging and label printing Rising ink…

Re-using return inks by the ‘cluster’ method

16 December 2021

Collecting leftover inks of similar colours in one dispensing barrel offers maximum recycling efficiency for wide-web converters The standard way…

Effortlessly reusing press return inks for spot colour printing: a best-practice guide

24 November 2021

A gravimetric ink dispenser and software makes it easy to reuse ‘return’ inks for spot colours in label and packaging…

The five steps to buying the right ink logistics package

26 October 2021

Selecting the ink dispensing and software solution that brings best long-term value is a team effort. It demands careful thinking…

Ink dispensing: the basics

30 September 2021

For printers working with ‘liquid’ inks – flexo, gravure and screen – ink dispensing is a fast, efficient and reliable…

The price of ink: just the tip of the cost iceberg…

25 August 2021

The iceberg is a useful metaphor for describing the total cost of ownership (TCO) – the full costs of purchasing…

Pit-stop perfect production with the 5S Program!

4 August 2021

The 5S Program Has locating a tool or ink container become a time-consuming ‘treasure hunt’? Is the area around the…

Beat the Eight Wastes for competitive edge!

21 July 2021

A central Lean principle is removal of waste within an organization’s processes. Companies that focus on this have a strong…

Understanding the 5 Principles of Lean

7 July 2021

A common misunderstanding is that Lean is just about cost-cutting. As this article explains, cost-cutting is only a part of…

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