At Aldridge Solutions, we have refined a process and toolset over the years to calibrate offset press output to industry standards. Most often, these standards are based on ISO 12647-2 and are commonly referred to by the ECI ICC profile names FOGRA 39, FOGRA 47, FOGRA 51, and FOGRA 52. Our expertise enables printers to easily match CMYK press output to the standard or to a FOGRA-compliant digital proofing system.

For a detailed look at the issues involved and the process we follow please take a moment to read our article explaining offset press colour management in detail.

We understand that taking a press out of production for detailed calibration can be challenging. However, it is an essential process to enable your press operators to quickly reach target colour or match proof. It is absolutely worth it in the long run to allocate time every 6 to 12 months, or whenever you change ink or paper, to ensure your output aligns as closely as possible with industry standards.

Calibrating the output of a single printing press for two paper stocks (coated and uncoated) can be accomplished in approximately 4 hours. For those requiring a detailed compliance report or proof that a particular print run complies with a standard, additional print runs can be added, bringing the total press time to around 6 hours.

Typically, we require a minimum of 2000 sheets of each target stock in SRA size. We can work more quickly if we have additional spare sheets, if costs allow.

In addition to calibrating for final colour, we can improve the accuracy of your CIP3 ink key presetting system by refining your paper characteristic curves. This enhancement can shorten make-ready times and reduced waste evern further.

To discuss your needs or book a calibration visit please contact us.