Accelerating Color Approval for Metal Packaging: CanJET Ecosystem by CMA Imaging, Sun Chemical, and X-Rite Pantone
In an innovative leap for the metal packaging industry, CMA Imaging, Sun Chemical, and X-Rite Pantone have collectively launched the CanJET digital proofing ecosystem. This cutting-edge solution is tailored for beverage brands, can manufacturers, and packaging converters. It is designed to provide accurate color and opacity matching on actual cans, a significant evolution from traditional proofing methods. The timely introduction of CanJET comes as brands strive for faster design approvals while maintaining high standards for color accuracy.
The Significance of Color in Metal Packaging
Color plays a pivotal role in how brands express their identity and attract consumers. However, achieving accurate color reproduction on metal packaging is particularly challenging due to the reflective properties of the material which can alter the appearance of colors. This is where CanJET's advanced workflow shines, enabling teams to match colors and opacities directly on the actual cans they will use, leading to more informed and confident design decisions.
How CanJET Works
The CanJET system integrates a range of technologies to deliver a seamless experience. It combines CMA Imaging's innovative printing system with Sun Chemical's specialized inks and digital resources from Pantone. This multifaceted approach allows for a faster, digitally-connected workflow that significantly reduces the time and number of iterations needed for color approval.
Instead of using traditional pilot-line proofing, which often requires extensive material and time, CanJET facilitates quick evaluations of color accuracy and opacity directly on the packaging. The connection to PantoneLIVE digital color libraries enhances the experience, providing packaging teams with access to over 4,000 standard colors achievable across various metal packaging formats.
Real-world Benefits
The introduction of CanJET has been met with enthusiasm within the industry, as highlighted by testimonials from key users. Renaud van Cauter, Operations Director of KCP Connexion, emphasizes that the system not only streamlines color development for new products but also integrates color research into the design and printing conversation. This feedback suggests that CanJET is effectively bridging the gap between design intent and production capabilities.
Innovative Technologies at Play
CanJET incorporates artificial intelligence for color matching, allowing for a more refined accuracy in color representation. By gathering spectral data with X-Rite's handheld spectrophotometer, packaging teams can engage in remote proofing, ensuring that colors align with brand specifications before mass production.
This digital disruption also includes direct-to-can printing capabilities that provide high-resolution prototypes, maximizing visual evaluation and minimizing costly missteps in the production line.
Acknowledgments and Industry Impact
The CanJET system's effectiveness has already been recognized in the industry, receiving the Bronze Innovation Award at METPACK 2026. This acknowledgment reflects CanJET's potential to transform metal packaging proofing processes, which have historically been cumbersome and slow.
Conclusion
As CMA Imaging, Sun Chemical, and X-Rite Pantone unveil the CanJET ecosystem, the metal packaging sector positions itself for a future where color accuracy and approval speed are dramatically improved. This advancement not only enhances operational efficiency but also empowers brands to effectively convey their message and attract consumers through visually striking packaging. The CanJET digital proofing ecosystem is a game-changer and represents a new era in brand packaging solutions.