Types of Printing Defects

Printing defects in corrugation can be caused by a variety of factors, including the quality of the materials used, the accuracy of the printing equipment, and the skill of the printing team. These defects can take many forms, each with its own set of implications for the functionality and aesthetics of the finished corrugated packaging.

Misregistered print is a common corrugated printing defect that occurs when different colors or images are not properly aligned, resulting in a blurry or misaligned image. Scumming is another defect that can occur when excess ink builds up on the plate or blanket, causing unwanted marks or smudges on the finished product.

Dot gain is a type of printing defect that results in the expansion of small ink dots during the printing process, causing them to merge together and create a darker, less-defined image. Ghosting, on the other hand, is a defect that occurs when previously printed images or text appear as faint, ghost-like impressions on subsequent prints.

Mottling is a defect that results in an uneven distribution of ink, causing the finished product to appear splotchy or uneven. Finally, feathering is a defect that occurs when the ink spreads beyond the intended boundaries, resulting in a blurry or distorted image.

Identifying and addressing these printing defects in corrugation is crucial to ensure that your packaging meets the desired quality standards. By understanding the various types of printing defects and their implications, you can take steps to improve the functionality and aesthetics of your finished product, which can have a positive impact on your customers and brand.