ISO 12647-4:2014 PDF

Overview

ISO 12647-4:2014 - Graphic technology - Process control for the production of half-tone colour separations, proof and production prints - Part 4: Publication gravure printing - defines process parameters and measurement requirements for four‑colour publication gravure printing. It covers the full workflow from colour separation and creation of the printing forme (engraved cylinder), through proof production, to production printing for magazines, catalogues and commercial publications. The standard is intended to ensure predictable, repeatable colour and tonal appearance of gravure prints and compatible off‑press proofs.

Key technical topics and requirements

• Scope and workflow: Parameters are chosen for the entire gravure process chain - colour separation, engraving, proofing and on‑press printing.
• Printing conditions & substrate categories: Defines substrate categories (S1–S5) and gamut types to associate typical coated, lightweight coated, super‑calendered and newsprint papers with target colour gamuts.
• Data and file requirements: Digital files should conform to PDF/X (ISO 15930‑4/6/7) or ISO 12639 and must identify the intended printing condition; inclusion of an ICC output profile or characterization data (ISO 12642‑2) is required.
• Proofing: Off‑press hardcopy proofing shall follow ISO 12647‑7; proofs must include control patches (solid primaries/secondaries, half‑tone patches, tertiary grey patches) to simulate gravure results.
• Engraving pitch: Specified ranges for cell frequency per colour (e.g., yellow, cyan, magenta, black) to guide cylinder engraving.
• Tone value and totals: Maximum tone value sum is specified (typically