Bounce

In the printing industry, bounce refers to the inconsistent positioning of the printed image on the sheets of paper as they travel through a printing press. This misalignment can result in blurry or uneven prints, negatively affecting the overall quality of the printed materials.

Synonym

Image misalignment

Examples

  1. Offset Printing: During an offset printing run, if the paper isn't fed consistently through the press, bounce can occur, leading to images that are slightly shifted or not perfectly aligned.
  2. Screen Printing: In screen printing, bounce might happen if the screen frame shifts slightly between prints, causing inconsistencies in the printed image's position on each item.
  3. Digital Printing: Even in digital printing, if the paper feed mechanism is not properly calibrated, bounce can lead to misaligned images, especially in high-speed printing environments.

Recommendations

  • Regular Maintenance: Ensure regular maintenance and calibration of printing presses to minimize the risk of bounce and maintain consistent print quality.
  • Quality Control: Implement stringent quality control measures to monitor print alignment during the production run and make adjustments as needed.
  • High-Quality Paper: Use high-quality paper that feeds consistently through the press, reducing the chances of misalignment.

To learn more about this or other print industry terms, contact AP&B today.