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Prints are printing out smaller than the file size

HP Latex 300 Series

#1 pideas1 7 years ago

On my past few prints, i've noticed that the size of my prints are actually smaller than the file. When I run 4 prints together, sometimes the size of the image is 1/2" to a full inch smaller. I've already checked and the size is correct on FlexiPRINT. I am running 2 vertical prints (24x36") on a 54" wide sheet so there's room on the left and right of the page. I've only noticed this recently with prints within the past few months.

Is this a software or hardware issue? Is there a way to fix this issue

#2 HP-MarcM 7 years ago

HI Pideas1,

There is a chapter that talk about this kind of issues in the User Guide. I'll recommend you to have a look to the chapter "The substrate has shrunk or expanded" (Page 85). Below you can find the recommendations from the User Guide:

"During the printing process, some substrates may shrink, while others may expand. If this happens, the dimensions of the print will not be correct.

As a general rule, you can expect the following percentages of shrinkage:

  • Banner: less than 2%
  • Self-adhesive vinyl: less than 0.5%
  • Backlit: less than 0.5%
  • Paper: less than 0.5%
  • PP & PE synthetics: less than 1%

The framing problem may be solved by printing a sample and adjusting the size of the image in the RIP. You may reuse this value for all your future prints with the same substrate, although special care must be taken when using banners, as the shrinkage may vary up to 1% depending on the amount of ink used in the print.

You can expect the following variations from one print to another:

  • Banner: less than 0.3%
  • Self-adhesive vinyl: less than 0.1%
  • Backlit: less than 0.05%
  • Paper: less than 0.1%
  • PP & PE synthetics: less than 0.4%

To solve the tiling problem and improve the repeatability of the printed size, you are recommended to ensure
that the substrate-advance sensor is enabled in the RIP's substrate preset, as this will improve the stability of
the prints over time. You are also recommended to tile together areas with similar amounts of ink. If this is
not possible, print the areas with different amounts of ink as different jobs and modify the length of the job
with less ink in the RIP to match its size with the job with high ink content."

Let me know if this helps you.

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