GSE launches Colorsat FCS

The Colorsat FCS (Formula Checkweigh System), featuring GSE Ink manager (GIm) software, manages all conventional inks, including water-based and UV-flexo, offset, gravure and letterpress inks, cutting makeready time and reducing ink consumption by up to 30 percent.

Colorsat FCS’s automatic ink recipe calculations enable spot colors to be prepared, on target and in the exact quantity needed for the printing job. It provides the formula of the base colors in exact weights, then leads the operator through a controlled weighing process, using a precision Mettler-Toledo scale. Inks returned from flexo chamber doctor chambers on previous jobs can also be calculated into new recipes, keeping waste to a minimum.

The GIm software provides the control and information needed to run a cost-efficient, responsive operation. It also includes several optional packages that automate ink-related processes. With the optional GSE Traceability package, the new dispenser brings full traceability of ink batches, especially useful for food and pharmaceutical markets to comply with the strict Good Manufacturing Practice and British Retail Consortium safety standards.

‘In label and packaging production, controlling ink-related processes is vital for staying competitive, but automated dispensing systems, enabling this have only been economical for larger-scale operations till now,‘ said Maarten Hummelen, marketing director at GSE. ‘The introduction of the new, compact Colorsat FCS manual dispenser with Ink manager software puts the boutique enterprise on an equal footing, providing a long-term, viable system for reducing the cost to print while achieving consistent repeatable quality.

‘The FCS and its software can also benefit larger businesses seeking to integrate peripheral operations – perhaps a stand-alone folding carton or envelope converting line – into the corporate management information system.’