As of this test, UltraChrome K3 inks are used in the Epson R2400, 4800, 7800, and 9800

* This round of tests simulated exposure for 51 years. A result of over 51 years means that at the time the test was terminated, no appreciable fade was recorded.

† UltraPro Gloss was not tested directly. However, it is made from the same base stock as UltraPro Satin without the luster finish on its surface.

‡Aurora will be retested due to product changes in early 2006.

Summary and Thoughts

Our latest print life tests have arrived and the news is good. Using the basic tests for light stability from our independent testing facility, Red River wanted to evaluate the Epson UltraChrome K3 system. The new UltraChrome inks are better than the earlier Epson pigment inks in a number of respects. We like the smoother look on resin coated glossy and satin in particular. More natural color as well as true neutral black & white capability make UltraChome K3 a wonderful tool for the digital photographer/printmaker.

We used six of our most popular papers for the K3 test expecting a decline in print life. We assumed that because of the better color gamut and media compatibility as compared to the original UltraChrome, print life numbers would take a hit.

Our tests show UltraChome K3 suffered a minor decline in print life as compared to the UltraChrome HiGloss system in the R800. For example, Red River UltraPro Satin reached its first endpoint at 47 years on the R2400 as compared to 50+ years on the R800. However, to our surprise and delight, the results were a significant increase as compared to the Epson 2200, which yielded only 33 years on similar media.

A print life of 47 years unprotected is acceptable to most users and can be improved significantly with display under glass, in photo sleeves, or in a book. This point is amplified when you consider many lab and dye sublimation prints are assumed to fade before the 50 year mark.

All of our tests were performed without the benefit of glass protection or spray coatings. We do this to simulate a "worse case" senario and to present a more honest picture of how an everyday inkjet print might be expected to last. Obviously, images can be exposed to numerous elements such as humidity, and atmospheric contaminents that will affect print life. While humidity and temperature are controlled in our tests, gasses like ozone or cigarette smoke are not factored into the print life estimates. For best results, always try and keep your prints in climate controlled, clean environments.

As always, Red River Paper does not guarantee these print life estimates because they are simply scientific estimates. Many variables like sun exposure, humidity, pollution, and the like will be at play differently in each users home, work, or gallery. We cannot take them all into account and still offer these print life tests.

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