Ink Yield in Digital Inkjet Presses

Understanding Ink Yield in Digital Inkjet Presses

Overview

This article explains how ink yield is determined e.g. Canon ProStream and varioPRINT iX digital inkjet presses. Unlike wide format devices, these presses do not use variable pass modes but rely on precise colour-managed profiling.

What is Ink Yield?

Ink yield measures the number of square metres printable per litre of ink. This insight enables accurate job costing, inventory control, and forecasting.

Ink Yield Calculation Methods

  1. RIP-Based Analysis

    • Review output data per job.

    • Match to ink usage by colour.

    • Reflects live usage, accommodating complex design variations.

  2. Baseline Test Prints (Optional)

    • Print full-coverage blocks to benchmark consumption.

    • Provides a general yield value, less reflective of live job variability.

Colour Profiles and Ink Distribution

ProStream and iX presses use ICC or device link profiles to manage colour application. A sample profile might appear as:

  • Cyan: 22%

  • Magenta: 18%

  • Yellow: 28%

  • Black: 24%

  • Red: 8%

Assuming 90m² yield at 100%:

  • Cyan → 90m² / 0.22 ≈ 409 m²/L

  • Yellow → 90m² / 0.28 ≈ 321 m²/L

Practical Benefits

  • Provides accurate ink cost forecasting.

  • Enhances stock ordering and usage planning.

  • Improves estimation accuracy for quote validation.


Notes
These calculations will be easier to apply once RIP data and colour profiles are accessible. Proficiency in tools like Excel or pivot tables enhances accuracy.
Alert
Do not use pass-mode-based calculations for Canon ProStream or iX presses, as this method applies only to wide format devices.
Idea
Establish a standardised test file for benchmarking ink usage across presses during commissioning or when testing new media types.

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