New functions and possibilities for coating and print inspection systems

Simplified color printing and improved process speeds

In the manufacture of three-piece metal containers, the aim is to produce visually perfect products that meet the highest hygiene and safety requirements. This requires the use of rectangular metal sheets that are varnished and printed without any defects. ISRA VISION’s well-known 100% inspection systems CoatSTAR and DecoSTAR check the quality of coating and printing at process speed. An expanded range of functions now adds new features to increase production line efficiency while helping operators optimize their processes.

The new “Auto Detect Color Bars” feature of ISRA VISION’s DecoSTAR 100% inspection system not only shortens the process of preparing new print jobs, but also simplifies color inspection itself. This is of particular benefit to the four- to six-colour printing that is increasingly being used in the field of metal printing. The DecoSTAR system is able to autonomously detect and evaluate the color measurement ranges in the trim area of each sheet. In addition, a new optional configuration created by ISRA VISION allows additional color zones to be captured, enabling comprehensive verification of the entire printed image. DecoSTAR guarantees 100% in-line color measurement and detects color differences due to over- or under-application of ink based on density measurements. These are shown as different values of ∆E.

Two other new features have been added to CoatSTAR and DecoSTAR. The “Machine Speed Reporting” function enables these two systems to collect additional detailed information about the process being monitored: the evaluation includes, among other things, data on the average speeds per job or pallet, and records the actual operating speed of the machine for each detected defect. Machine Speed Reporting” data is displayed as part of the inspection log, available locally in the system as a PDF file or via the network. The correlation between machine speed and defect type provides users with essential information to optimize their processes. This allows you to avoid defects caused by speed, such as colour variations or splashes, without having to slow down the process unnecessarily.

The “Maintenance Reporting” function also ensures smooth processes. When it is time for maintenance, the operator is notified via the “Touch & Inspect” graphical user interface. This avoids defects that are normally caused by dirty parts or incipient wear and tear. Thus, the operator can react quickly and anticipate a more serious problem, either by ordering the cleaning of the respective parts or by setting a maintenance date before an unscheduled forced shutdown or a large amount of waste due to system failure occurs.

With the inline inspection systems CoatSTAR for varnish inspection and DecoSTAR for print inspection, ISRA VISION offers high-performance solutions for 100% inspection of metal foils. These systems not only minimize waste, but also support the user with new features for simplifying color inspection, creating speed logs to avoid related defects, and obtaining maintenance notifications.