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.
  • Standard (std)
    A acceptable measure of comparison for quantitative and qualitative value.
  • Standard colorimetric observer
    An entity described by the CIELAB color model consisting of three spectral sensitivity curves called color matching functions.
  • Standard condition
    The condition of a test specimen that has attained equilibrium under specified temperature and humidity. (Usually recognized as 23°C / 73°F) and 50% RH.
  • Standard designs
    Artwork that is readily available; clip art.
  • Standard deviation
    A measure of dispersion of a frequency distribution.
  • Standard fading hour
    A specification for the exposure of a coating to ultraviolet light under standard conditions, refer to fadeometer.
  • Standard reference material (SRM)
    A physical sample that has been calibrated to an accepted primary standard or set of standards.
  • Standby time
    The period of time during which a press is ready for printing, but not producing prints; idle press time.
  • Star target
    A quality control aid with pie shaped wedges of lines that converge to the center.
  • Starved area
    A section in a molded plastic part that has insufficient amount of resin to wet out the reinforcement completely.
  • Starved glaze
    A glaze that lacks shine from thin application or insufficient firing.
  • Starved joint
    A junction of two members that have insufficient adhesive to form a permanent bond.
  • Static
    Bound electric charge on the surface of an insulating material.
  • Static decay
    Time required in seconds for a charge placed on the surface of an insulating material to decay to a percentage of the original charge, performed at specified relative humidity conditions.
  • Static electricity
    A built-up electrical charge on the surface of a substrate, or other surface, usually induced by friction, and most evident under low humidity conditions.
  • Static eliminator
    Equipment or device for removing or neutralizing and electrical charge.
  • Static frame
    A screen frame made of metal or wood where the mesh is tensioned separately and then attached to the frame using an adhesive; refer to rigid frame.
  • Static pressure
    Pressure of a fluid whether in motion or at rest, sensed in a small hole drilled perpendicular to and flush with the flow boundaries so as not to disturb the fluid in any way.
  • Static shield
    A printed membrane switch conductor pattern or separate aluminum or copper film used to reduce the effects of static discharge.
  • Station tension
    The tension existing within a screen mesh that has been stretched taut, but without additional applied force.
  • Statistical process control (SPC)
    The application of statistical methods and techniques to the control of quality.
  • Statistical quality control (SQC)
    A process sampling and charting method for quality assurance.
  • Status A
    The acceptance standard for reflection densitometers for measuring photographic color prints.
  • Status E
    The acceptance standard in Europe for color reflection densitometers.
  • Status I
    A densitometer response referred to as narrow band or interference type response.