Streamlining Color Matching with Automated Ink Dispensers: What You Should Know

Accurate color matching is one of the most critical—and often most frustrating—parts of high-quality pad and screen printing. After investing time and effort into perfecting a design and selecting the ideal color, discovering that one print run doesn’t match the others can be a costly and gut-wrenching setback.

Whether you’re working with standard Pantone shades or custom formulations, color matching demands precision, consistency, and technical know-how. Many companies rely on external color matching services or hire in-house experts, but as print volumes grow, these solutions can lead to delays, bottlenecks, and rising costs.

If your team is mixing ink multiple times a week, it might be time to consider automating the process. Much like the paint mixing machines at your local hardware store, automated ink dispensers can streamline production, reduce waste, and eliminate human error—saving you time and money.

At Marabu, we’ve tested many dispensers over the years, and our top pick is the COROB EVOPWR CX Ink Dispenser. It pairs seamlessly with Marabu’s Color Management Software, storing and managing all your color formulas so you get the right mix every time. But no matter which dispenser you choose, here are six essential questions to ask before making a purchase:

1. What type of ink does the dispenser support?

If you’re screen or pad printing, you’re likely using solvent-based or UV-curable inks. Make sure the dispenser is compatible with your preferred ink type—this is non-negotiable.

2. How long is the dispense time?

Time is money, especially in high-volume print shops. Most dispensers mix ink faster than any human could, but not all are built equally.

Ink dispensers hold several different canisters, each with different, standard colors of ink. When it’s time to mix a particular color, each canister dispenses the precise amount of ink, which are all combined to create the final, desired color.

Most machines dispense colors from each canister one at a time, but the EVOPWR CX dispenses ink from all canisters simultaneously, completing the job 8-12 times faster than other ink dispensers on the market.

3. How easy is it to use?

An ink dispenser should simplify your workflow, not complicate it. If your go-to Color Matcher is unavailable, your production shouldn’t grind to a halt. Look for a machine that’s intuitive and doesn’t require advanced technical skills. The EVOPWR CX is designed for quick onboarding—most users are up and running in just a day or two.

4. What’s the cost—upfront and long-term?

While sticker price matters, long-term savings are where automated dispensers shine. Overall pricing comparisons of different dispensing units is important, but also be sure to look at long-term savings as well, particularly the savings from reduced waste.

Often, when companies mix colors in-house, they make an excessive amount “just in case.” The excess isn’t used, and it’s thrown out or forgotten. A big reason we recommend the EVOPWR CX is because not only does it dispense the exact amount you need for a particular job, but the unit itself is half the price of most other dispensers.

5. What does the setup and install process look like?

Once you’ve decided on a dispenser that fits your needs and budget, don’t forget to ask about setup and installation. Even the best machine is useless if it’s too complicated to install. The EVOPWR CX is one of the simplest dispensers available, with setup and training typically completed in just one or two days—and it’s included at no extra cost.

6. What kind of maintenance and care should I expect?

Like any equipment, dispensers need upkeep. Complex machines with lots of moving parts can be prone to issues. The EVOPWR CX keeps it simple: just check the nozzle weekly. And if something does go wrong, COROB’s tech team can diagnose and fix many issues remotely.

If you’re curious about how the COROB EVOPWR CX Ink Dispenser can transform your workflow, contact the team at Marabu. We’ll help you assess your needs, answer your questions, and guide you through the ordering process.