Optimization of flexographic process parameters using Taguchi’s grey relational analysis technique

Abstract

This paper is an experimental and statistical approach to find out an optimal solution for the best print quality reproducible by flexographic printing on coated and uncoated substrate using Taguchi’s Grey Relational Analysis method. The halftone image composed of round and square shaped dots with AM screening and the anilox roller with three different screen rulings are employed at different trial runs of experiment. Total of 12 numbers of experimental runs with different combinations of paper grades, halftone dot shapes and anilox roller rulings are employed in the experiment to investigate its influence on the final print quality. The print quality evaluation is based on the assessment of Solid Ink Densities, Dot Gain, Hue Error and Print Contrast using Taguchi’s Grey Relational Analysis method. Based on the Taguchi’s GRA score, the optimal solution for the best print quality is prioritized. This work aims to distinguish the influence of substrate, halftone dot shape and anilox cell ruling in the final print quality of flexographic process. Also, it demonstrates the scope of applying Taguchi’s Grey Relational Analysis in the printing field to find out an optimal solution for the multiple criteria based decision making activities.