IK consortium devises standard for print quality

A DIN specification has been published to provide a general standard for assessing the print quality of primary sales packaging made of plastics.

Until now, there have been no standards, rules or guidelines for the assessment of the print quality of packaging made of plastics films and film composites.

Under the umbrella of IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen (German Association for Plastics Packaging and Films), experts from IK member companies together with the association took the initiative to draft a document covering the topic. This document then formed the basis for the development of DIN SPEC 6124.

The aims of the project are not just to reduce subjective factors and to objectivise printing errors that occur, but also to improve mutual trust among business partners. This can result in equal conditions of competition with regard to print quality for all players involved. This DIN SPEC can be used as an applicable document covering quality agreements or specifications.

“We are delighted that the extensive preparatory technical work carried out by our group of experts has now resulted in a DIN SPEC,” said Dr Fang Luan, head of consumer affairs and quality management at IK. “At the same time, it is the very first DIN SPEC covering the area of packaging. It is a great success for the dedicated collaboration within our association.”

A DIN SPEC is a consortium standard developed by a circle of individuals in small working groups within only a few months. DIN ensures that a DIN SPEC does not conflict with any existing norms and standards and can be used as the basis for a standard.