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Print Quality Starts with Viscosity Monitoring


Consistent print quality does not happen by chance; instead, it depends on precise, continuous process monitoring. Because ink viscosity controls flow and layer thickness, operators must manage it carefully to maintain repeatable results.

Rheonics RPS InkSight actively measures viscosity in real time, giving operators accurate data that maintains stable color and consistent press performance. Consequently, printers reduce waste, save materials, and improve efficiency. In addition, continuous monitoring allows teams to detect deviations early, so that they can correct problems before the finished product is affected.



Even though modern presses include automation and quality systems, many operators still rely on manual viscosity checks. As a result, feedback arrives too late, which increases variability and compromises print quality. This situation often causes inconsistent ink flow, uneven layers, color shifts, higher ink consumption, and unnecessary rework.

Therefore, operators require a real-time, inline viscosity monitoring solution. InkSight provides continuous and accurate readings, ensuring consistent quality while also supporting cost efficiency and sustainable production. Furthermore, predictive tracking allows operators to anticipate changes, which reduces setup time and eliminates trial-and-error adjustments.

Viscosity measurement on highly automated presses is still done manually and with low precision nowadays

viscosity monitoring sensor for printing

By continuously measuring ink properties, InkSight allows operators to maintain narrow viscosity tolerances. This real-time control ensures that color adjustments rely on precise data rather than guesswork. Consequently, presses deliver uniform results even during long or complex print runs.

Moreover, continuous monitoring improves efficiency because operators act proactively rather than reactively. As a result, downtime decreases, rework drops, and ink and solvent usage declines. Overall, viscosity monitoring directly connects quality control to operational productivity, which enhances profitability and press reliability.


Rejected jobs due to inconsistent color can significantly harm profitability and reputation. Therefore, the primary goal of viscosity monitoring is to maintain print quality from start to finish. At the same time, operators gain efficiency by reducing setup times, eliminating unnecessary ink adjustments, and improving press utilization. By reaching the correct ink condition faster, they increase productivity while lowering waste.


To deliver repeatable results, a viscosity monitoring system must meet two essential requirements. First, it must include a highly accurate sensor capable of detecting the smallest viscosity changes that affect color and print quality. Second, the system must monitor continuously and in real time, accounting for temperature fluctuations, solvent evaporation, and other variables—without operator intervention.

Rheonics RPS InkSight satisfies both requirements by providing precision, reliability, and consistent performance under demanding conditions.


2021 FTA Technical Innovation Award

InkSight fundamentally changes the nature of the flexo printing process, from initial job setup all the way to jobs that, once delivered, secure a clear path to repeat business… It can produce a change in the very culture of the flexo industry by adding job-length consistency, accuracy and efficiency.

Viscosity sensor RPS InkSight is awarded by the Flexographic Technical Association for its innovative character

2021 Gravure Awards for Sustainable Packaging by ERA

Printers can achieve unmatched color accuracy and quality with the InkSight system and ColorLock™ software –which is designed in collaboration with printers, for printers. Viscosity automation and predictive tracking control with InkSight reduces waste and materials consumption, as it increases efficiency and improves quality.

Viscosity sensor RPS InkSight has been awarded by the ERA for its sustainability

At the core of InkSight lies a compact, symmetric torsional resonator. It performs high-speed, microscopic vibrations without altering ink behavior. As a result, the sensor delivers stable, repeatable measurements that are unaffected by press vibrations or ink contamination.

This design ensures job-to-job reproducibility and high accuracy, making InkSight ideal for demanding printing applications. In addition, the fully balanced resonator maintains accuracy regardless of environmental conditions, which guarantees reliable results every time.


InkSight combines precision with usability. Its intuitive touchscreen interface and user-friendly software give operators real-time visibility into viscosity trends. In addition, the system integrates seamlessly with press automation, which allows operators to act confidently and consistently. Consequently, teams achieve uniform results across shifts, operators, and print runs.

The user friendly viscosity data monitoring software can be operated through a touchscreen provides online real time viscosity data.

Viscosity RPS sensors installed on press

InkSight installs inline, between the ink pump and doctor chamber, which allows it to monitor ink flow directly. The system resists pressure fluctuations and press vibrations, and industrial-grade cables connect the sensor to its electronics and automation systems. As a result, operators can maintain precise viscosity control without manual adjustments.


InkSight requires no manual cleaning. The system automatically cleans itself during standard ink line and doctor chamber wash cycles. In addition, it does not need recalibration during production. Consequently, printers enjoy long-term accuracy, reliability, and uptime without extra maintenance.


By adopting Rheonics RPS InkSight, operators gain precise, continuous, and reliable viscosity monitoring. As a result, they maintain consistent color, reduce waste, improve efficiency, and optimize press performance. In short, InkSight transforms viscosity monitoring into an active tool that drives quality, efficiency, and sustainability in modern printing operations.


The Rheonics RPS InkSight viscosity monitoring sensor is suitable for:

Flexographic Printing machine
Gravure Printing machine
Corrugated Printing machine