The Inelme I-ICS (Independent Ink Control System) is a closed-loop process automation platform for flexographic and gravure printing presses. Unlike conventional viscometers that track a single variable, the I-ICS measures true pigment and solids concentration by combining precision dart drop-time viscometry with real-time temperature measurement. A PLC and industrial PC manage the entire loop — sensing, computation, and actuation — storing job recipes for instant recall on repeat print runs. The system is configurable for solvent-based or water-based inks and scales from a single stand-alone station (I-ICS TD) to a fully centralized plant-wide installation covering up to 12 printing units.

How does I-ICS differ from conventional viscometers?

Standard viscometers measure viscosity alone and infer concentration indirectly. The I-ICS takes a fundamentally different approach — it measures concentration directly by correlating dart drop time with fluid temperature, then controls pigment and solids content through automated solvent dosing. Key differences include:

What control modules does the I-ICS platform support?

The system is modular and scalable, allowing printers to add functionality as production requirements evolve:

• CC Color Control — maintains stable pigment concentration throughout the print run
• CT Temperature Control — closed-loop ink temperature regulation with ±1 °C tolerance; reduces solvent evaporation and allows lower dryer temperatures
• pH Control — ±0.2 precision for water-based ink applications
• MS Solvent Mixer — manages up to four different solvent formulas per station
• CS Solvent Control — tracks and reports solvent consumption per job for cost analysis
• FT Special Filter — captures magnetic particles with stainless steel mounting
• Network Stirrer/Mixer — reduces foaming and improves ink homogeneity
• Pre-Cleaning System — automatic wash-up of ink trays, feed lines, and chrome rollers

How does temperature-controlled ink affect print quality and cost?

Ink temperature directly influences viscosity, dot gain, and color density on the substrate. Without active temperature control, ink viscosity drifts as press speed and ambient conditions change — leading to visible color shifts within a single print run. The I-ICS CT module stabilizes ink temperature to ±1 °C using closed-loop heat exchangers, which also reduces solvent evaporation rates. The practical outcome is twofold: consistent color from the first impression to the last sheet, and reduced solvent consumption — typically enough to pay back the system investment within months. Stable ink temperature additionally permits lower dryer temperatures, cutting energy consumption without compromising drying performance.