Having FM screening on MetaDimension means it is available as part of Printready, Heidelbergs replacement for Prinergy.
As well as offering FM for the first time on MetaDimension, Satin Screening works with Heidelbergs Delta workflow and is said to offer a higher-quality result than its original FM option, Diamond Screening.
Heidelberg will support spot sizes down to 20microns with Satin Screening.
After carrying out several print tests using both 10 and 20micron dot sizes we found that there is no visible difference between the two, said Heidelberg UK product manager CTP and workflow Guy Elliott. As there is also extra control required on the press when using a 10micron dot for no perceivable gain, Heidelberg is only going to support a minimum 20micron dot.
Satin Screening costs 7,000, with Diamond Screening users able to upgrade for 1,800. The software doesnt work with hardware screening towers, but Delta users with towers will be offered Satin with a Xitron RasterBlaster interface for 15,500.
Printers wanting to switch to Satin Screening can also call on Heidelbergs print colour management team to make sure they correctly set-up their press and pre-press to get the most from the technology. A typical consultation would take two to three days.
Story by Barney Cox
