Glossary of Terminology in the Graphics Industry
The graphics sector is a technical branch with its own language. It is therefore possible that in a quotation or order confirmation you may come across a term that you do not know the meaning of. We strive within Altrif label to make our communications as clear and transparent as possible. In order to eliminate possible ambiguities which might arise, we have highlighted hereunder a number of (technical) terms.
Base material
The material on which the printing takes place. The base material varies from paper to plastic.
Cliché
An image carrier which is made via a photomechanical process. The non contact part of the cliché’s surface is removed by etching. The cliché is then used to transfer (ink) colour to the label. The desired final picture is obtained by using several clichés to print different colours on top of each other.
CMYK
The 4 base colours used to build up a full colour label. CMYK stands for the following colours: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black.
DTP
Desk Top Publishing is the general name in the graphics industry given to the formatting, layout and touch up activities. We have our own DTP department at Altrif Label.
Full colour
Printing process whereby the colour is built up from the four base colours CMYK. Almost any colour can be reproduced using these four colours.
Core diameter
The core on which your roll of labels is wound. This core can vary in size. The actual size is indicated by the term diameter.
Front side colours
The colours reproduced on the front side of the label. (this term is used in particular for multilayer labels)
Back side colours
The colours reproduced on the back side of the label. (this term is used in particular for multilayer labels)
Base colours
The colours reproduced on the label base. The base is that part of the label having direct contact with the product which the label has to be adhered to. (this term is used in particular for multilayer labels)
PE material
Polyethylene, A plastic material characterised by its frequent use on a flexible background.
PET material
Polyethylene terephthalate, A plastic material characterised by its rigidity and stiffness and also its ability to withstand very high temperatures.
PMS colours
Pantone Matching System, is an American standardised colour matching system, based upon a number of base colours which, when mixed, enable a large variety of new colours to be made. The purpose of this system is that worldwide the same colours can be reproduced.
PP material
Polypropylene, A plastic material characterised by its stiffness and ability to withstand high temperatures.
Radius
Radius means the degree to which the corner of the label has been rounded off.
Roll width
The width of the roll (in mm) on which the labels are supplied.
Roll winding
The roll winding determines the position of label on the roll. Consider for example, an inside- or outside winding, the direction and readability of the label.
Die
The desired shape of the label is cut out of the material using a die.
Varnish
A transparent liquid (ink) which can be added to the ink or printed on top of it ( varnish) in order to give a matte, satin or high gloss finish. This is often used to protect the printed surface against greasy fingers or stains.