ISO 12647-2:2013 – Process control for the production of half-tone colour separations, proof and production prints

Key Definitions in ISO 12647

1. Half-Tone Colour Separation: The process of converting continuous-tone images into dot-based images for CMYK printing
2. Proof Print: A simulation of the final print used to verify colors and layout before mass production
3. Dot Gain (Tone Value Increase): The increase in dot size from plate to printed sheet, impacting tonal accuracy
4. TVI (Tone Value Increase) Curves: Used to measure and compensate for dot gain across tonal ranges
5. Solid Ink Density: Measurement of the thickness of ink applied to paper to ensure consistency across colors
6. Grey Balance: Achieving neutral greys through the appropriate mixture of CMY values

Structure of ISO 12647-2:2013

The standard provides technical specifications for:

These requirements ensure consistent reproduction across different substrates, inks, and machines.

What are the requirements of ISO 12647?

1. Calibrate CtP (Computer-to-Plate) systems and RIPs to generate separations aligned with TVI curves
2. Establish a press fingerprinting process to determine optimal press settings and verify stability
3. Use color measurement instruments (e.g., spectrophotometers) for inline and offline color control
4. Integrate process control charts to track key parameters like solid ink density and grey balance
5. Maintain proofing devices (e.g., inkjet proofers) to simulate production press output accurately
6. Train pressroom staff in measurement procedures, tolerances, and corrective actions
7. Conduct regular quality audits and revalidation tests to maintain ISO 12647-2 compliance
   
   Need support in preparing for process audits or compliance documentation? Contact support@pacificcert.com.

Documentation Required

For organizations aiming to implement ISO 12647-2:2013 successfully, the following documents are typically required:

1. Print process control manual
2. Tone value increase (TVI) curve documentation and calibration logs
3. Solid ink density measurement records
4. Proofing verification reports and ICC profiles
5. Press fingerprinting records and validation charts
6. Grey balance and overprint control documentation
7. Training logs for prepress and press staff
8. Maintenance schedules for imaging and measurement equipment

What are the benefits of ISO 12647?

The print industry continues to evolve with innovations in hybrid printing, variable data workflows, and sustainability. Despite these shifts, color consistency and process stability remain non-negotiable, especially for packaging, publishing, and brand-critical print, ISO 12647-2 helps them to:

• Ensure predictable color reproduction, reducing variation between proof and print
• Reduce press setup time and material waste, leading to cost savings
• Align print production with international buyer expectations and quality certifications
• Enhance color consistency across different machines, shifts, and locations
• Support client satisfaction and brand color integrity for packaging and corporate prints
• Facilitate compliance with ISO 9001 quality management systems in print operations
• Promote data-driven decision-making through measurable color metrics and process control
• Improves training, standardization, and accountability across print and prepress teams
• Enables participation in certified supply chains and print tenders requiring ISO-aligned output
• Supports integration with G7, FOGRA or other regional color standards

ISO 12647-2:2013 is increasingly integrated into automated workflow systems, with cloud-based RIPs and inline color measurement tools using its parameters as a calibration base. It is also being incorporated into supplier qualification programs, especially for multinational brands that require global color conformity.

With rising demand for short-run, high-accuracy prints (driven by e-commerce and customized packaging), ISO 12647-2 provides the framework to ensure quality across offset workflows, regardless of run length or substrate type.

Looking to future-proof your print quality systems? Contact support@pacificcert.com.

How Pacific Certifications Can Help?

Pacific Certifications is a globally recognized certification body offering audit and certification services for ISO standards relevant to the printing and graphics sector, including:

• ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems
• ISO 14001 – Environmental Management
• ISO 45001 – Occupational Health & Safety
• ISO 27001 – Information Security (for print data integrity)
• ISO 12647-2 – Audit assessments as part of ISO 9001 or print quality programs

We support:

• Verification of process control systems for color consistency
• Assessment of documentation, proofing protocols, and calibration logs
• Integration of ISO 12647-2 parameters into ISO 9001 QMS, certificate of compliance
• Supplier assessments for brand color and print quality standards

Still have questions or want to schedule a print process audit? Contact support@pacificcert.com.