The Direct Print on Corrugated Substrates series consists of two courses, Monitoring and Controlling Color in the Pressroom and Introduction to Flexography and Print Assessment, that explain how flexography is used to enhance corrugated containers to sell more product.  

Held during March 2017 in Renton, Wash., USA, these courses are ideal for anyone who would like a formal opportunity to understand the process that places images on boxes as well as those who need a refresher or a method of viewing the process differently.

This hands-on course allows participants to mix and match ink colors in the lab and then demonstrate their comprehension and abilities on press.  In other words, participants are able to apply learned color theories in an environment that provides the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge. This real world application allows for the retention of material and the ability to implement this knowledge using a deliberate and efficient process when returning to the sponsoring facility. 

This course covers the definition of color, viewing conditions, and color evaluation tools and equipment as well as how to: identify a color, request matched ink from the ink manufacturer, interpret color data, and manage ink on the press to maintain color.

This one-of-a-kind program is conducted on the production floor of a manufacturing facility.  Students will engage in press side activities including the review of printed sheets with print defects to determine cause and solution. This course focuses on the basics of flexography and its five core variables: Anilox, Paper, Plates, Ink ,and Machine. 

Participants will gain an understanding of press set up, print assessment, target evaluation, ink management and housekeeping, as well as troubleshooting print issues. Core concepts will be presented in both lecture format and hands on class instruction covering the five core variables of flexography. 

Cordes Porcher brings more than 25 years of experience as a leading Process and Graphics Specialist in flexographic printing. His instruction and research have led to improved equipment functionality and advanced material utilization both nationally and internationally.

Cordes is known industry-wide for his former position as the facilities director for Clemson University’s Printing and Converting Research Center. As director, he developed the successful direct print corrugated program for instructing both the university students and the corrugated industry staff.

As an authority in flexographic printing, he is often seen judging print competitions and conducting speaking engagements at various TAPPI, AICC, Package Printing, and FTA events. Cordes is an internationally published author of numerous articles on the flexographic process. He has been honored by Clemson University for services to the Graphic Communications Program.