In brief

A supplier specification becomes useful only when the buyer defines how it will be measured on the real substrate, over a representative run and after every relevant process step.

Separate positioning repeatability from printed registration

Camera, table and feed mechanisms can each have a repeatability figure, but the printed result also depends on the mark, screen, substrate, tension, ink and drying. Define registration between printed layers or between print and a cut or formed feature. Measure multiple positions across the sheet or web and at the beginning, middle and end of the run. Report the measurement system and environmental conditions.

Test the full material path

For roll-to-roll equipment, include unwind, liner peeling, tension control, print, drying, guiding, laminating and rewind. Check web wander, telescoping, surface marks and dimensional change after heat. For sheet equipment, include feeding, double-sheet control where applicable, CCD alignment, print, unloading and downstream cure. A short isolated print test does not qualify the full production route.

Measure the deposit and functional result

Record wet or dry deposit where it matters, edge definition, pinholes, open lines, adhesion and cure. Conductive or sensor layers also require resistance or functional testing; decorative layers may require colour, gloss, adhesion, abrasion or forming checks. Agree sample preparation and test methods before the trial so that a visually attractive print is not accepted without the required function.

Calculate accepted throughput

Time a representative run and separate scheduled production, changeover, cleaning, material changes, stoppages, inspection and rework. Useful throughput equals accepted output divided by the available production time. State the artwork size, repeat length, number of colours or layers and cure route alongside the result. Do not transfer a speed measured on one job to a different material and layer stack.

Challenge the line with realistic variation

Include a planned roll splice or sheet batch change, screen cleaning, stop-and-restart, material change and the longest expected run. Review whether registration and cure recover without hidden adjustment. For web systems, inspect several positions across width and along length. For sheet systems, sample different stack heights and positions in the feeder.

Write the acceptance record

The record should identify the machine configuration, software or recipe version, material lot, artwork revision, screen and ink system, utilities, settings, sample plan, results, deviations and responsible reviewers. Separate machine capability from the qualified process window. Any number supplied by LICHAO or another manufacturer should be confirmed against the agreed customer sample and final product requirements.

Related LICHAO equipment

References and fact sources

Original buyer guidance. Confirm equipment fit, performance and final acceptance with representative customer samples.

LICHAO PrintTech

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