Glossary

The PRINTING United Alliance Glossary serves as an excellent industry terminology resource. It is the language by which we all communicate. Without it, universal understanding would be impossible.

To keep our constituents well informed about changes to the increasingly complex industry terminology, PRINTING United Alliance has developed this glossary of terms. Definitions are for general reference only. Usage may vary between companies, individuals, or national and country customs. The information presented is as accurate as the authors and editors can ascertain and PRINTING United Alliance assumes no responsibility for the use of information presented herein.
  • Cold cracking
    Deterioration of a plastic from cold temperatures causing stiffness and even brittleness, breaking or shattering under stress as temperature is lowered.
  • Cracking
    A breakdown in which cracks penetrate at least one coat of an ink layer and which may be expected to result ultimately in complete failure.
  • Racking
    The placing, manually, of screen printed sheets on racks for drying.
  • Tracking
    (1) The degree of lateral movement of a belt such as a conveyor on a belt dryer; (2) The adjustment of overall spacing between all text characters in a word or words.