IPM June 2026

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It's All in the Prep:

pg.16

Automated Material Handling for Corrugated.... pg. 6 Software Security for AM...............................pg.10 industrialprintmagazine.com

Corrugated Package Printing ....................... pg. 22

#3

DUSTRIAL HINT

JUNE2026

FEATURES [ 16] Shatter-Proof Adhesion

Achieve Quality and Durability with Primers and Pretreatments [ 22] Expanding Production with Digital Corrugated Package Printing

COLUMNS Editor's Letter [Proper Prep] .................................................................. 4 Corrugated [ Handling Corrugated Board] ...........................................6 Target Chart [Finishing Corrugated Board Tools for Production] ...... 9 AM [Smart Algorithms] ......................................................................... 10 Spotlight [ Personalization by Trade] .................................................. 14 Advertiser Index .................................................................................. 15 Companies Mentioned...................................................................... 15

ON THE COVER 3DT LLC offers various pretreatment systems. See page 16

industrialprtntmagazine.com

June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 3

.RIAL 9PRINT

IN DUSTRIALPRI NTMAGAZINE.COM Volume 13, Number 3

EDrTIIR'S LETTER

PROPER PREP Starting off any print process on the right foot is essential to the overall success of the final output, whether it be a corrugated box, glassware, or

EDITOR IN CHIEF Thomas Tetreault 978-921-7850 EDITOR Melissa Donovan mdonovan@rockportpubs.com

three-dimensional (3D) print. Proper preparation of the surface in the in­

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cassandra Balentine cbalentine@rockportpubs.com

looks at the various methods of pretreatment for glass and furthermore

ART DIRECTOR Sarah M. White swhite@rockportpubs.com

stance of glassware is critical. Our cover story, Shatter-Proof Adhesion,

discusses the importance of pretreatment for this particular surface prior to directly printing to it.

Another aspect of prep is identifying the right printer for the job. Take for example corrugated package printing. Are you considering integrating digital technologies into a high-production run? Then a single-pass sys­ tem is your best choice. Prototyping or shorter runs, look to multi-pass flatbeds. Read more in Expanding Production with Digital.

This issue also dives into automated material handing for corrugated board, security software for 3D printing systems, a spotlight on a trade­ focused promotional print provider, and a chart listing automated finish­ ing hardware for corrugated boards.

WEB EDITOR Melissa Mueller CONTRIBUTORS Pete Basiliere, Marco Boer, Kemal Carr, Maria Conrado, Melinda Tetreault ADVERTISING SALES PUBLISHER Thomas Tetreault 300 Newburyport Turnpike, Ste. 11 Rowley, Massachusetts 01969 Ph 978-921-7850 x110 • Fx 978-921-7870 edit@rockportpubs.com SALES Amanda Doyon Ph 978-921-7850 x170 • Fx 978-921-7870 adoyon@rockportpubs.com

Cheers,

ROCKPORT

Melissa Donovan, Editor

CusToM PuBLISHING

CORPORATE & PUBLISHING OFFICE 300 Newburyport Turnpike, Ste. 11 Rowley, Massachusetts 01969 ROCKPORT CUSTOM PUBLISHING, LLC CHAIRMAN Jeffrey Jensen PRESIDENT & CEO Thomas Tetreault CONTROLLER Missy Tyler Industrial Print magazine is published by Rockport Custom Publishing, LLC. Send change of address forms to 300 NewburyportTurnpike, Ste. 11, Rowley, MA 07 969. © Rockport Custom Publishing, LLC 2026. Reproduction by any means of the whole or part of Industrial Print magazine without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Views expressed in the editorial pages do not imply our endorsement.

Subscription Rates: U.S. $41.65 per year, seven issues; single copies: $5.95, Cana­ da and Mexico: $52.22 (U.S.D.), Other international subscriptions: $71.05 (U.S.D.) Vendors: We welcome your product news. Include prices, slides, photos, and digital files with your press release. Please forward product samples and media kits to Reviews Editor, Industrial Print magazine 300 Newburyport Turnpike, Ste. 11, Rowley, MA 01969. We cannot be responsible for unsolicited product samples.

4 [lndustfia/ Print Magazine J June 2026

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#7

CORRUGATED

HANDLING CORRUGATED BOARD End-of-Line Automation

by Melissa Donovan

End-of-line automation eliminates the extra person manually cutting or moving material at the conclusion of a print job.

Corrugated board is prime for automation. Its unwieldy, unpredictable construction leaves room for error. End-of-line automation eliminates material challenges and allows for complex jobs being handled with ease.

Useful Options Automation frees up press operators for other tasks. In a corrugated printing envi1 ronment, end-of-line automation options include mechanisms like material feeders and stackers, robotic Inc. “This lets teams redeploy labor to areas where operators arms, conveyors, and intuitive software. add the most value, while also improving process reliability, “Feeders and stackers reduce labor dependency, enhance throughput, and overall equipment efficiency.” workplace safety, and eliminate inconsistencies caused by faCollaborative robot (co-bot) solutions designed for Zünd tigue, human error, or skill differences,” explains Steven Luedby Robotfactory include the Robot PortaTable 130, which auers, co-owner, Infinite Motion Control (IMC). tomates the removal of cut materials. This co-bot works side Using automation, stronger return on investment is achieved by side with the operator and takes on loading/unloading through higher output and reduced waste, states Lueders. Take tasks—including picking and sorting—as needed. The Robot for example IMC’s Vector Feeder. Adding it to a digital printing PortaTable 130 is extremely flexible. Thanks to its mobility, it line increases production throughput up to 60 percent while can quickly and easily be repositioned around the machine or maximizing equipment uptime, according to the company. moved from one Zünd cutter to another.

“Pre-feeders, stackers, conveyors, bundle forming, palletizAccording to Nimil David, product manager, robotics and ing, and inline inspection keep production continuous, efficient, automation, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems (PCS), auand consistent,” lists Rob tomation is closing the Casella, technical director, gap when it comes to lost SUN Automation Group. revenue. “True producCutter extensions as tivity is defined by how well as robotic picking continuously the knife or and sorting devices can blade of the digital cutkeep material consistently ting table is in the matemoving and free up oprial. In other words, how erators from repetitive long production is actuhandling tasks, shares ally ‘live.’ If the machine — Nimil David, product manager, robotics and automation, Martin Thornton, packagsits idle while an operator Kongsberg PCS ing business development loads or unloads a sheet, manager, Zund America, that’s lost revenue.”

Automation reduces the risk of damage that often occurs during manual handling, while also ensuring a consistent throughput.

6 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

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CORRUGATED

Automation tools eliminate human error and ensure precision with every cut, explains David. Kongsberg PCS offers end-of-line automation for cutting tables with its Feeder & Stacker and Robotic Material Handler. Also helpful, a vision system with top and under side cameras that simplifies operations for print side down applications and scans registration marks or barcodes to automatically pull up correct digital files.

Specialty Media For corrugated board in particular, endof-line automation is important. It keeps production moving and avoids errors that can occur when manually handling the material.

Since the material “is large, unwieldy, and often processed in higher volumes” it makes “manual handling inefficient, inconsistent, and physically demanding,” notes Thornton.

“Automation reduces the risk of damage that often occurs during manual handling, while also ensuring a consistent throughput. By automating the end of the line, shops remove the physical strain on their workers while ensuring every crease and fold is perfectly aligned,” explains David.

Automation plays a crucial role in the corrugated industry, says Lueders. It does so “by converting production from a fluctuating, operator-dependent process into a predictable and repeatable process from job to job and shift to shift. This creates more reliable delivery schedules and boosts confidence in meeting deadlines, ultimately improving overall operational consistency and performance.”

“Corrugated production is high volume, heavy, and fast paced. Automation keeps lines moving smoothly, prevents bottlenecks, ensures consistent stacking, and reduces intensity,” adds Casella.

1. Advanced feeding/stacking with the Zünd BHS180 Board Handling System. 2. Kongsberg PCS offers

end-of-line automation with its Feeder & Stacker and Robotic Material Handler.

industrialprintmagazine.com

2 Solution Sets Corrugated board benefits directly from automated solutions like feeders, conveyor belts, and cameras found on finishing hardware.

A feeder is vital, insists Lueders. “It reliably de-stacks warped sheets from distorted pallets and presents them flat to printers or cutters by holding the front edge until the machine takes control. This is especially important because almost all types of corrugated cardboard—single wall, double wall, or recycled—are affected by temperature and humidity, which can cause warping. Even corrugated plastic can weaken in moist conditions.”

Pre-feeders, stackers, conveyors, strapping, inspection, and palletizing are all key automated solutions for corrugated, lists Casella. “Together, they enable continuous flow, consistent output, and reduced labor, improving efficiency and reliability.”

“Automated feeding and stacking are essential because they remove the biggest bottlenecks—loading large, unwieldy sheets and efficiently managing finished stacks. These solutions ensure consistent, uninterrupted production and allow operators to focus on quality and process management rather than material handling,” says Thornton.

Things to look for in a solution designed for corrugated board, suggests

David, are features that reduce damage while handling the sheets, are able to deal with warps, and support preventing any interruptions in the operation.

According to David, in a corrugated workflow, the goal is to treat the cutting table like a high-speed production factory. “By combining sheet feeders and cameras, you remove the biggest obstacles brought by manual operations— physical exhaustion, alignment errors, and set up delays, which in turn ensures consistent productivity.”

Easy Peasy Not all solutions are created equal. It’s important to work with reputable vendors when considering implementing an automation solution. The majority of the time these vendors have the staff, training, and tools available to minimize any downtime during installation as well eliminate most of the learning curve.

“The ease of implementing end-ofline automation depends on the equipment being automated, the automation options available for that equipment, and which part of the production workflow the customer wants to streamline,” suggests Thornton.

David suggests businesses considering an investment in finishing automation “ensure their tables integrate with

June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 7

CORRUGATED

An Ally in Business

SUMMA L AUNCHES NEW F SERIES VANTAGE Launched in May 2026 at FESPA Barcelona, the new F Series Vantage marks the next evolution in flatbed cutting from Summa. The F Series Vantage is made to accelerate every stage of the workflow, combining enhanced cutting speeds with intelligent automation to deliver the ultimate operator-friendly experience. Its open, modular architecture ensures seamless integration into existing production environments, offering maximum flexibility and compatibility.

Promising 40 percent productivity gains, the F Series Vantage transforms the finishing workflow thanks to automation that anticipates errors before they happen, an open eco-system, and a wide tool library, which features a new high-frequency 3.7kW router, Fast+ and Core+ tangential modules, and rigid material and high precision cutout tools.

Speed improvements run deeper than tooling alone. New motion control, unique blade recognition, and a new media thickness sensor accelerate every stage—from setup to execution. The result is cleaner edges, fewer tool swaps, and a workflow that feels effortless.

The F Series’ safety eco-system is designed to be nonnegotiable and impossible to bypass, protecting operators while also minimizing downtime and ensuring production keeps running at peak performance.

True to Summa’s philosophy, the F Series Vantage integrates seamlessly into any production environment. No lock-ins. No closed systems. Just freedom to build and evolve your workflow on your terms.

current systems and printer speeds to cause the least disruption to operations.”

For example, Kongsberg PCS automation solutions are modular, which allows for ease in adding a loading or loading/ unloading solution to an existing Kongsberg PCS cutting table. Installation and training is completed in a few days because the products are intuitive in nature.

Due to the modularity of Zünd systems, workflow automation—both in terms of software and hardware—can be added after the fact, even years after the initial installation. “This allows for gradual scaling without having to purchase more than immediate needs

C O M PA N I E S M E N T I O N E D

dictate, which helps reduce the initial investment in finishing equipment,” adds Thornton.

“Most automation is modular and easy to integrate, with operators typically up to speed in days. Brief downtime may occur during installation, but long-term uptime improves thanks to fewer jams and automated handling,” admits Casella.

IMC’s automation offers a scalable foundation for modular growth, allowing for gradual expansion, one device at a time if desired. The printer or cutter can be upgraded with initial feeding, followed by a stacker, and a flipper for two-sided printing or print-side-down cutting.

See page 15 for more information.

INFO# Company

Website

110

infinitemc.com

Infinite Motion Control Inc.

111

Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems

kongsbergsystems.com

112

Summa

summa.com

113

SUN Automation Group

sunautomation.com

114

Zund America, Inc.

zund.com

8 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

When we think of automation, minds go to concerns about machines taking over.

However, it’s best to think of automation as an ally.

“Automation should not be considered a threat but rather an ally that takes away manual, repetitive tasks so you can focus on more productive and skillful work. For instance, instead of being the worker who simply moves material, you become the person who manages the process and maximizes the potential of the equipment. This allows you to be more creative and engaged. Ultimately, automation helps you work smarter, not harder,” suggests David.

Thornton agrees. “Zünd automation is designed to support operators, not replace them. It tends to make their job easier and takes over the most repetitive, physically demanding material handling tasks so they can focus on quality control, fine tuning operations, and other higher value responsibilities. In most shops, this ultimately makes the operator’s role safer, less strenuous, and becomes essential in maintaining a smooth, consistent production workflow.”

“Automation enhances operators’ roles, replacing repetitive tasks with higher value work in setup, quality control, and optimization. Production becomes safer, less physical, and more technical,” attests Casella.

The possibility for workplace accidents is reduced, as is the risk of injury, when automated feeding and stacking is integrated. Tasks like manual lifting of heavy or oddly shaped, oversized boards is likely eliminated, adds Lueders.

Natural Next Step No longer a luxury, automating components of the corrugated production process is becoming a necessity. This includes feeders, stackers, robotic arms, and much more that push through the clutter and maximize productivity on the back end. IPM

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ORRU ATE0 BOARD

Tools for Production 115 AXYZ

TRIDENT Series

116

C-190

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

C-170 EL-150 117 Brausse Group

ETERNA ECUT 1650 ELITE SA

brausse.com 118 Colex Finishin , Inc.

✓

Colex Sharpcut Flatbed Cutter

colex.com 119 Carrus stems B.V.

Asahi AP-1060

corrus stems.com

Asahi AP-2100

120 Elitron America Inc.

✓ ✓ ✓

Kombo TAV Kombo SD Series

elitron.com 121 Graphco

SD-Ital Au usta Fl 50R PRO SD-Ital Au usta Fl R2 PRO

ra hco.com 122 Infinite Motion Control Inc. 123

la unatools.com CFX-2513

mimakiusa.com

CFX-2531

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

CFX-2550 F1612 F1625 F3232 F1832 F3220 V-lnte ra V-0 tima SUN625 Rota Die Cutter

129 Zund America, Inc. zund.com

10

1,800

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55x75

2550 Router

Q-Line with BHS180 full automated

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125 Mimaki USA, Inc.

127 Sun Automation Group

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Smart Shop MT Elite

summa.com

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126 Summa

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June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 9

AM

SMART ALGORITHMS Security Software for AM Supply Chains

by Melissa Donovan

Machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), and other smart algorithms make it more necessary than ever before to implement security solutions on additive manufacturing (AM) processes. Software solutions enhance resilience against cyber threats, sabotage, and unauthorized manipulation.

While there are many advantages to ML and AI, the fact remains that their presence means security solutions are not optional. “The same connectivity that enables smarter manufacturing also widens 1 the attack surface,” suggests Kyle Adriany, director of business development, Materialise Software.

How It’s Used

quality without manual intervention,” adds Victor Gerdes, VP of global software product strategy, Stratasys.

Adriany says ML is helpful for catching defects in situations and supporting quality certification—which is identifying anomalies during the build rather than relying solely on postprocess inspection. “That’s valuable, but it also means more software is connected to more machines, generating and consuming more sensitive data.”

AI and ML, while helpful, increase the burden of protecting every component of the AM workflow.

“In AM, the design file represents the intellectual property (IP), which is at the heart of the entire process, but it is only one component of the broader digital manufacturing pipeline. Protecting the entire workflow including slicing software, machine firmware, and printer execution systems is critical. Ensuring that only authorized

AM leverages ML for a number of positive reasons, however with its increased usage, systems are more vulnerable to cyber attacks and unauthorized use.

“ML is revolutionizing AM by enhancing process optimization, improving print quality, and offering predictive insights into production trends. These advancements are accelerating AM from an experimental stage to full-scale production across industries,” shares Marcellus Buchheit, president/CEO, WibuSystems USA Inc. Designing and actual printing of parts benefits from AI and ML. “On the design side, AI-driven generative modeling tools reduce trial and error by automatically exploring and optimizing part geometries. During printing, ML algorithms fine-tune process pa— Marcellus Buchheit, president/CEO, Wibu-Systems USA Inc. rameters in real time to ensure consistent output

Security software and hardware will no longer be an optional enhancement; it will be a standard requirement to protect IP, ensure product quality, and maintain trust in AM processes.

10 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

1. Materialise Software’s Identi-

fy3D is an end-to-end cybersecurity and IP control platform built for AM supply chains.

industrialprintmagazine.com

users and systems can access or execute these assets prevents tampering, IP theft, and unauthorized production. As the sec­ tor scales, failure to implement compre­ hensive security systems exposes manu­ facturers to significant risks, including gray market production, IP theft, and the creation of faulty or imitation parts on un­ authorized machines," notes Buchheit. ''Adversaries use AI tools to attempt attacks at scale-probing systems, gen­ erating phishing vectors, and automating intrusion attempts in ways that weren't practical years ago," explains Adriany.

Risk Awareness Risk is heightened when AI and ML solutions are connected to AM. Systems are vulnerable to activities like data manipulation and file tampering.

"The risks that arise when connected AM systems are compromised are no longer theoretic. The core vulnerability in AM environments stems from the conver­ gence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT). Traditional IT moves data. OT moves physical things, and 3D printers fall squarely into that cat­ egory alongside CNC machines, robots, and automated production lines. When these two infrastructure types share the same network, protocols, and security ap­ proaches, the attack surface expands sig­ nificantly. And unlike an IT failure, an OT failure can cause physical damage, disrupt production, or compromise the in­ tegrity of a printed part in ways that aren't immediately visible," explains Gerdes.

When AM workflows are compromised, manipulated designs, altered

specifications, or even counterfeit production can occur. "Unauthorized changes in production parameters, par­ ticularly when design files are shared across various manufacturers or sup­ pliers, make it increasingly difficult to control the integrity of the final product.

Protecting against these risks requires a comprehensive approach to digital asset security," explains Buchheit.

Adriany separates attacks in AM into two categories-tampering and un­ authorized access. "Tampering means builds or files are modified to sabotage output-subtle parameter changes that affect material properties or part perfor­ mance without being visually obvious.

Unauthorized access means confiden­ tial IP is leaked, copied, or used outside its intended scope."

PERFECTING THE ART OF SOFTWARE LICENSING AND SOFTWARE PROTECTION - SINCE 1989!

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June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 11

AM

2 When attacks occur on digital input, Adriany explains, the result is compromised physical output. “And increasingly, agentic AI solutions connected directly to machines open additional avenues for data misuse and leakage.

The more autonomous and ‘connected’ the workflow, the greater the need for granular control over both machine access and IP usage.”

Gerdes agrees. “As organizations add printers, requestors, and supply chain partners to their AM operations, each of those risk categories compounds.”

Safety Protocols Security software is available to prevent unauthorized access, tampering, data manipulation, and other types of activities that are increasingly common thanks to AI and ML.

C O M PA N I E S M E N T I O N E D

According to Buchheit, security software protects not only design files, but the full AM workflow from slicing software to machine firmware and printer execution systems. “It ensures that unauthorized users and systems cannot access, modify, or misuse digital assets used in the AM process.”

In general, security software encrypts and controls the use of an IP from the moment it is authored to the machine where it is printed.

“That means protecting files against tampering, enforcing who can access and use them, and ensuring production only happens under approved conditions—the right machine, material, and parameters. The goal is continuous control across the entire workflow, not just protecting files at rest or in transit, but maintaining the IP owner’s intent through execution,” says Adriany.

Buchheit admits that encryption is a cornerstone of security software, safeguarding files during storage and transfer. Digital rights management and advanced licensing technologies are also sought after features that ensure files can only be accessed and executed under approved conditions, including limits on production volume.

Another way to circumvent risk is localizing AI or ML software. “Security, See page 15 for more information.

INFO# Company

Website

141

assembrix.com

Assembrix

142

Materialise Software

materialise.com

143

Senvol LLC

senvol.com

144

Stratasys

stratasys.com

145

Wibu-Systems USA Inc.

wibu.com

12 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

particularly regarding AM data, is of high concern. ML software as a local install best addresses this concern. It does not connect to the cloud, and you do not even need to be connected to the internet to use it,” explains Zach Simkin, president, Senvol LLC.

Beware of the Consequences The consequences of not implementing security software are severe. Despite how obvious these results are, it seems security software’s use in AM is in a gradual transition.

Adriany believes adoption is reactionary. “Organizations implement it after an attack has already caused harm. By that point, the damage is done.”

Repercussions include IP theft, counterfeit parts entering the supply chain, and, in the worst case scenario, product recalls or failures due to tampered files, admits Buchheit.

Other consequences involve machine downtime, IP loss, and compromised parts, all of which compound further downstream in the manufacturing process—no matter the sector. “A faulty aerospace component doesn’t just fail in isolation; it can ground assets, delay maintenance, and disrupt operations.

Lost IP undermines revenue and trust.

And suppliers who cannot demonstrate secure handling of sensitive manufacturing data increasingly lose eligibility for defense and aerospace work, regardless of their production capability,” notes Adriany.

Attackers gaining access to unsecured printer interfaces create trouble that leads to unfortunate end results.

Things like manipulation of G-code files, altering print parameters, introducing structural defects, or causing printers to overheat are possible. “In research settings, these attacks have produced 2. Senvol ML is ML software for AM. It can be used to analyze data from any AM machine, material, and process to rapidly optimize parameters, develop materials, and predict material properties.

industrialprintmagazine.com

AM

parts that pass visual inspection but fail under stress. In a production environment, that means defective tooling, failed end use parts, or compromised components making their way into downstream products,” says Gerdes.

“AM is a direct link between digital designs and physical products. Without protection, a compromised file can lead to catastrophic failure in the physical product, compromising safety, reliability, and performance. Simply put, unsecured files are a direct threat to both business and consumer safety,” says Buchheit.

AM users in aerospace, defense, and medical drive adoption of security software. These are segments “where the consequences of a compromised part are too severe to leave security as an afterthought. Defense will lead, but the same approach will extend into other regulated sectors as the model proves out,” suggests Adriany.

Buchheit believes that as AM grows beyond prototyping to become a mainstream manufacturing method—especially in critical sectors like aerospace, medical, and defense—security will become non-negotiable. “With an increasing reliance on distributed networks and digital supply chains, the need to secure digital assets is paramount. Security software and hardware will no longer be an optional enhancement; it will be a standard requirement to protect IP, ensure product quality, and maintain trust in AM processes.”

Regulatory frameworks are also accelerating the shift. “Standards including NIST, IEC 62443, and ISO/ASTM 52907 are establishing security requirements specifically relevant to AM environments. Organizations that want to operate in defense supply chains, sell to regulated industries, or participate in distributed digital manufacturing will increasingly need to demonstrate compliance with these frameworks, not just good intentions,” states Gerdes.

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Solution Selection Assembrix addresses the challenge of security with an AM platform designed specifically for secure distributed production. Instead of sending files directly to printers or external partners, OEMs manage production through a controlled digital environment. Build files are encrypted, access is restricted to authorized users and machines, and each print job is executed under predefined rules set by the IP owner. Sensitive data is never exposed as open files, even when production takes place remotely, while real time visibility and full traceability allow OEMs to monitor production, maintain audit trails, and ensure consistency across sites.

Materialise’s Identify3D is an end-toend cybersecurity and IP control platform built for AM supply chains. It encrypts, distributes, and traces digital part data from authoring through machine execution, giving IP owners continuous control over how, where, and the number of times a part can be produced. What sets it apart is machine-level integration.

Rather than stopping at file protection, Identify3D extends control through the last mile, eliminating compliance and security gaps at the junction between the machine and upstream IT systems. The result is a platform that supports cybersecurity, IP protection, and quality assurance as a unified workflow.

Senvol ML is ML software specifically for AM. It can be used to analyze data from any AM machine, material, and process to rapidly optimize parameters, develop materials, and predict material properties. The software is provided as a local install, it does not connect to the cloud, and users do not need to be connected to the internet to use it. This is for software security.

Stratasys’ GrabCAD Streamline Pro is an enterprise software platform for managing AM at scale. It includes several components with distinct security roles, plus hardware and partner options for

the most demanding security environments. For example, GrabCAD Shield is an industrial-grade hardware firewall device installed at the printer. Bi-directional protection defends the printer from the network and the network from the printer. ProtectAM is a hardware and software upgrade for the Stratasys F900 printer that meets U.S. Department of Defense STIG cybersecurity requirements under DoDI 8510.01 and AFI 17-101. It provides an enclave controller running Red Hat Enterprise Linux as the sole network access point, creating a fully separated network area for the printer to operate.

Wibu-Systems provides CodeMeter, a software protection and licensing platform built for industrial environments, including AM. CodeMeter secures the entire AM workflow including design files, file transfer, slicing software, machine firmware, and printer execution systems.

The platform combines encryption, flexible licensing, and secure key storage available both digitally and through physical dongles, providing tamper-resistant, hardware-backed protection. Manufacturers control which machines can print, where and how many parts can be produced, and ensure that files cannot be reused outside authorized environments.

This prevents unauthorized use and gray market production while providing full traceability across distributed manufacturing networks. In addition to security, CodeMeter enables new business models including pay-per-print workflows and secure digital spare parts distribution via ecommerce platforms.

Smart Algorithms While ML and AI enhance AM, their use isn’t without consequences. The entire AM supply chain is susceptible to risk, whether it is file tampering or IP theft.

Security software prevents attacks and protects against unauthorized use. The need for this type of solution will only increase as ML and AI continue to be part of the AM discussion. IPM

June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 13

SPOTLIGHT

PERSONALIZATION BY TRADE Business to Business Customization with OTO

by Industrial Print Magazine Staff

Direct to object (DTO) printing is well suited for producing custom gift products. Innovations in digital print systems, inks, and primers/surface treatments continue to push the possibilities.

Surrey, UK-based Proper Goose provides person­ alized gift products from playing cards to glassware and tins. The company started in 2015 as FDCCov­ ers designing and making its Limited Edition First Day Covers. It soon branched out into the personal­ ized gift market and became Proper Goose in 2016.

Trade Printing In 2021 Proper Goose identified a gap in the market for personalized drinkware and opened up a trade­ focused division of the company, Bottled Goose.

This division offers custom bottles and tumblers, glassware, and homeware products. Decorations are done us­ Helix range of printers allows Bottled Goose to work with ing a Helix Hi-Fi printer, Double Helix printer, and Magicoat leading brands like Duplo, Kew Gardens, Lucozade, and Win­ chester Distillery. pretreatment system by Inkcups.

Bottled Goose specializes in delivering high-quality prod­ According to Inkcups in a published case study about Prop­ uct printing for businesses of all sizes, from small start-ups to er Goose/Bottled Goose, the cylindrical inkjet printers are well large brands. It offers co-branding, print on demand, whole­ suited for digitally printing on drinkware, ideal for premium sale, as well as sample and tooling services. It is supported by glassware, stadium cups, tumblers, barware, shot glasses, wa­ a team of software developers, printer experts, and a state-of­ ter bottles, and candles.

Because Bottled Goose requires seamless printing onto the-art production facility.

One challenge with printing for the trade means there are cylindrical and tapered products, the ability to print onto pre­ sometimes fluctuations in the volume of products required, filled bottles is crucial. "The very nature of supplying to the which vary from items such as spirits bottles for distilleries, per­ trade means that there can be fluctuations in volume of prod­ fume bottles and candle holders for cosmetics houses, or thou­ ucts required. This varies from personalized, one-off items such as specialist whisky sands of units of branded glasses or bottles for events. � bottles for a client, to tens ,,- - - - - � - - - - Bottled Goose finds that the 1. Bottled Goose printed custom Inkcups Helix range of DTO designs with lnkcups equipment on presses is able to handle Klean Canteen water bottles for Whit­ this variability. by & Co. 2. Proper Goose, a person­

DTO in Action The capabilities, quality, and speed offered by the

14 [lndustfia/ Print Magazine J June 2026

... the cylindrical inkjet printers are well suited for digitally printing on drinkware...

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alized gift producer based in Surrey, began producing a range of person­ alized items in 2015 for occasions such as Father's Day, birthdays, and even King Charles Ill's Coronation.

industrialprintmagazine.com

of thousands of units such as branded glasses or bottles for events. The Ink­ cups Helix range offers this flexibility with no compromise on quality. The simple process from receiving the cli­ ent's artwork and then it being sent directly to the printer, offers an easy and streamlined experience for clients.

Speed and efficiency from the first mo­ ment," notes the study.

Testing the output quality for Bottled Goose products is an important element of its reputation for offering a bespoke service. According to Inkcups, tests on the durability of the printed product con­ firm that it is dishwasher safe, scratch resistant, and outstanding quality.

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Whitby&Co. One of the services offered by Bottled Goose is custom prints on Klean Can­ teen water bottles. The company recent created a batch for its client, Whitby & Co., a U.K.-based distributor of outdoor accessory products.

Using its Inkcups printers, the cus­ tom drinkware provider printed 60, 16

ounce colored bottles with a custom de­ sign for the Kendall Mountain Festival.

Designed by a local artist, the artwork­ a full wrap around the bottle-captures a mountain and sea scene, featuring a tent, a hiker, and wildlife elements.

Printed in a denim blue color with a 100 percent varnish overlay, the design

stands out against the matte finish of the container. The water bottles were exclusively sold at the festival.

Continued Evolution Proper Goose and its Bottled Goose divi­ sion continue to look for new opportuni­ ties with DTO printing. 1PM

Get more information from vendors appearing in this issue! Visit IPMagdirect.com.

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COMPANIES MENTIONED Company

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Company

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131 100 141 101 102 103 132 104 110

lnkcuos lnkcuos Innovative Diqital Systems Kento North America Koenia & Bauer Durst Konqsberq Precision Cuttino Systems Materialise Software Mimaki USA, Inc. Mimaki USA, Inc.

133 139 134 105 106 111 142 107 135

Plasmatreat GmbH Senvol LLC Stratasys Summa SUN Automation Grouo SURA Instruments GmbH swissQorint Wibu-Svstems USA Inc. Zund America, Inc.

136 143 144 112 113 137 108 145 114

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June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 15

ACHIEVE QUALITY AND DURABILITY WITH PRIMERS AND PRETREATMENTS

G

by Cassandra Balentine

lass provides a convenient and beautiful sur­ face for decoration. However, it can be tricky for ink adhesion. For glass decoration expect­ ed to last beyond initial handling, pretreat­ ment is a critical part of the digital direct to object (DTO) printing process.

Success with Glass For digital DTO printing on glass, pretreatment is generally essential if the end application requires strong

16 [ lndustfiaf Print Magazine J June 2026

adhesion and long-term durability. "Ink chemistry has come a long way, but glass is still a demanding sub­ strate. If the printed part needs to withstand handling, abrasion, washing, or environmental exposure, pre­ treatment is usually a key part of building a reliable process," stresses Ken Tyler, national sales manger, En­ gineered Printing Solutions.

Above: Engineered Printing Solutions' XD-360' is a multi-color, UV LED, high-resolution inkjet printer built for decorating cylindrical objects.

industrialprintmagazine.com

"While some glass surfaces may al­ low ink to adhere initially without pre­ treatment, long-term durability require­ ments such as scratch resistance, wash resistance, and environmental exposure almost always require surface prepara­ tion," echos Sandi Baginski, creative di­ rector, Innovative Digital Systems.

According to Hugo Gonzalez, se­ nior segment specialist, Mimaki USA, Inc., glass, while a printable substrate, has variability. "Its printability varies widely depending on the specific for­ mulation, coatings, and manufacturing methods. Varieties of glass should be approached like any range of printed material, each type may require its own solution."

Surface treatment ensures dura­ bility and lasting image vibrancy, but also helps remove dirt, debris, or other

coatings that may affect adhesion. Tom Lang, digital product manager, Ink­ cups, explains that the limited resin in digital inks makes adhesion to glass challenging and following annealing-a controlled slow-cool heat treatment pro­ cess that is part of glass manufacture­ glassware is often sprayed with either a hot- or cold-end coating. "This coating is used to protect the glass during transit, but while this coating protects the glass, it also prevents inks from sticking to it."

Bas Buser, global segment manag­ er, printing applications, Plasmatreat GmbH, believes that it's a little more nuanced. Pretreatment is essential for UV-curable inks, but not for ceramic inks. "Glass objects sometimes have a coating that makes it possible to print on with UV curing inks directly. It de­ pends then on the coating, which can

for example be an anti-scratch coating or a color varnish. But in general, a pre­ treatment on glass is needed."

Tyler points out that for ink to prop­ erly adhere, it needs to wet out and an­ chor to the surface in a controlled way.

"Glass can be difficult because the sur­ face is not always naturally receptive enough for that to happen consistent­ ly. On top of that, two glass parts that appear very similar can behave quite differently depending on coatings, con­ tamination, manufacturing variation, or even how they have been handled be­ fore printing. That's why experience in handling glass is essential for success in DTO printing."

Lang suggests that 24 hours after a graphic has been UV digitally printed onto the glass, some adhesion testing, including scratch, tape, and dishwasher

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June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 17

1 tests, is recommended to assure that the ink has properly adhered to the glass, the edges are completely smooth, and the surface stays fully intact. “Getting pretreatment right demands an understanding of the end application and have enough knowledge of the right substrate to pair the right technique with the right ink and technology. This is why it’s advisable to work with an equipment manufacturer with expertise in pretreatment across a range of applications, inks, substrates, and printing methods.”

Understanding Surface Properties Adhering UV-curable digital inks to glass is challenging due to its inherent surface characteristics. Glass is extremely smooth, non-porous, and features a low surface energy without pretreatment.

1. Innovative Digital Systems takes an applicationfirst approach to digital glass printing. 2. Innovative

Digital Systems works with customers to understand their substrates, durability requirements, production goals, and workflow needs.

18 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

Several key properties work against strong ink bonding including low surface energy; a smooth, non-porous surface; chemical inertness; surface contamination sensitivity; presence of a hydrated surface layer; and high surface tension mismatch, suggests Buser.

Unlike porous materials, ink cannot penetrate the surface, so adhesion depends entirely on how well the ink bonds to the exterior layer, offers Baginski.

Poor adhesion on glass surfaces results from protective coatings or formation of glass corrosion during storage and transport, shares Dr. Arnd Schimanski, managing director, SURA Instruments GmbH. The transition from inorganic glass to organic coating (ink) must be generated without mechanical stress in the coating for good adhesion, adds Schimanski.

Contamination is also a concern, as many glass products—especially containers—are subject to surface contaminants through the manufacturing process.

“Glass may be treated during manufacturing with protective coatings designed to reduce scratching, may have residual mold release, or packaging materials used to improve transport durability. While beneficial for the glass manufacturer, these contaminants can have an adverse effect to ink adhesion if they are not properly addressed through surface preparation prior to printing,” states Baginski.

Contamination can happen during other steps as well. Baginski points out that oils from handling, dust, moisture, and invisible residues can all negatively impact adhesion if proper cleaning and preparation procedures are not followed.

Also, all glass is not created equal.

“For example, glass used for solar panels is a different chemistry than one might use for bottling liquids. Each additive compound has its own characteristics, each use might require a different coating that drastically affects its printability,” explains Gonzalez.

Growth of Digital The growth of digital DTO printing influences pretreatment requirements and pushes their advancement. Faster line speeds and shorter cycles reduce the time available to pretreat the object.

As digital DTO printing continues to grow, expectations are dictated by and evolve based on market demands. “The requirements for a glass drinkware product vary greatly from an industrial-use glass panel, for example. Today’s customers expect prints that can withstand dishwashers, aggressive chemicals,

industrialprintmagazine.com

heavy handling, extreme temperature changes, all while maintaining a long product lifecycle,” says Baginski.

Tyler adds that the increase in digital DTO printing has changed how people think about pretreatment.

“Pretreatment has always been important in glass decoration, even in traditional analog processes. Digital has made pretreatment more integrated into the overall production workflow. In some cases, it can be brought inline as part of a digital cell, which helps with consistency and throughput.”

Further, digital DTO printing enables a variety of items to be decorated, and 2 as such has expanded into new areas including packaging. Because of this, many operators need to understand how to decorate a broader range of different substrates and items than ever before. “This requires specialist knowledge and expertise into what level of adhesion and abrasion resistance each item requires, and this is why working with an equipment manufacturer is advisable to ensure the desired result is achieved,” states Lang.

increases surface energy and alters the surface chemistry to improve wettability and adhesion.

Schimanski says flames remove impurities like water, dust, and protection

agents from the surface. Flame silicatization like Pyrosil forms a reactive silicate layer on the glass surface.

Surface tension after flame treatment is in the range of 50 to 60 millinewton

Treatment Options A variety of pretreatment options are suitable for digital DTO printing including chemical primers—wipes and sprays; flame and flame silicatization/Pyrosil; as well as corona and plasma.

Flame treatment works by cleaning and activating the glass surface. “The heat removes contaminants and increases surface energy, allowing ink to wet out more effectively,” shares Baginski.

Tyler explains that flame-based methods thermally activate the surface and Pyrosil deposits a silicon dioxide layer onto the substrate, which both

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#1 June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 19

a bondable ink receptive layer between the ink and glass. “These are cost effective and easy to implement but can be labor dependent.”

Alternatively, jettable primers offer a more controlled approach by applying adhesion promoters only where ink will be printed. “This reduces waste and improves process efficiency,” notes Baginski.

Tyler adds that chemical primer wipes can also improve adhesion, although they are generally less practical for high-speed production environments.

“All of these treatments are trying to move the surface into a better adhesion window. The difference is in how they get there and how suitable they are for a given application, which is where the expertise of the supplier comes in,” concludes Tyler.

Determining Surface Treatment

3 per meter (mN/m) depending on flaming parameters. Pyrosil coating reaches 72 mN/m on glass surfaces and after primer application surface tension is between 48 and 56 mN/m depending on application parameters, adds Schimanski.

Pyrosil-type treatments chemically modify the surface to create stronger bonding sites for ink. “These systems are often used when durability requirements are especially demanding, which is critical for DTO printing on glass. Plasma

C O M PA N I E S M E N T I O N E D

and corona treatment operate similarly by modifying the surface at a molecular level, typically in automated production environments,” explains Baginski.

Corona uses a high-frequency, electrical discharge to raise the surface energy of the substrate, notes Tyler.

Each pretreatment approach used in digital glass printing is designed to solve adhesion challenges in different ways. Baginski says hand-applied primers and adhesion promoters create See page 15 for more information.

INFO# Company

Website

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3dtlld.com

3DT LLC

132

Engineered Printing Solutions

epsvt.com

133

Inkcups

inkcups.com

134

Innovative Digital Systems

ids-digital.com

135

Mimaki USA, Inc.

mimakiusa.com

136

Plasmatreat GmbH

plasmatreat.com

137

SURA Instruments GmbH

sura-instruments.de

20 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

The most appropriate pretreatment method depends on several features including glass and coating type, durability requirements, production speed and volume, ink chemistry, cost, and handling.

How well an ink bonds to a substrate depends on coatings, surface energy, dyne levels, and other bonding requirements. Lang says clean, untreated glass typically has a surface energy between 30 to 72 dynes, while most UV inks have a surface tension between 35 to 45 dynes.

“As a rule of thumb, the surface tension of the ink should be about ten dynes lower than the surface energy of the glass. For optimal adhesion, a surface energy of around 35 to 45 dynes is ideal.

A dyne pen or a tensiometer can then be used to measure surface energy or surface wetting. Achieving the target dyne 3. The HeliDyne is a corona treatment system from 3DT. 4. Plasma energy is at the core of 3DT’s PlasmaDyne Pro, revolutionizing surface treatment and adhesion performance in manufacturing.

industrialprintmagazine.com

level does not guarantee adequate surface tension or adhesion.

We always recommend validating ink bonding in conjunction with pretreatment by performing print testing, rather than relying solely on dyne level measurements,” offers Lang.

Lang says primer wipes can be effective for applications where durability and automation isn’t a priority, whereas applications that require strict adhesion testing or high levels of washability rely on flame treatment or automated systems to ensure high levels of adhesion.

When printing directly onto glass, Erik 4 Kiel, president/owner, 3DT LLC, believes the choice of pretreatment method depends on several factors, including the type of glass being printed, the ink and ink system used, and the configuration and speed of the printing process. “Glass surfaces are extremely smooth and easily contaminated, so achieving adequate surface energy and cleanliness is critical for reliable ink adhesion.”

Both corona and atmospheric plasma treatments can increase surface energy when treated immediately prior to printing. “Corona treatment is often suitable for relatively wide, flat surfaces and certain production setups where speed is important. Atmospheric plasma can provide more concentrated cleaning and activation, which may be beneficial for complex shapes, localized treatment areas, or applications requiring very

industrialprintmagazine.com

consistent adhesion. Integration with the printing line, part handling, and process speed are also important considerations,” explains Kiel.

For short-run customization or single-use products, a manual primer may be sufficient. For high-volume industrial production, automated flame or chemical pretreatment often delivers better consistency and scalability, comments Baginski. “Ultimately, the right answer is the one that supports reliable production—not just successful samples.”

Pretreatment selection is also driven by structured testing. “The right choice usually comes down to the part, the line, and the performance requirement. We look at the type of glass, the shape of the part, the production speed, whether the process needs to

run inline, and what kind of durability the customer needs. A decorative indoor application may not require the same approach as a product that will face repeated washing or exposure to the elements. Cost and practicality matter too, but we always start with what works technically and then narrow it down from there,” notes Tyler.

Direct to Glass Printing to glass is challenging, but also rewarding. Pretreatments ensure adhesion and durability of digitally decorated glass objects.

Baginski adds that the conversation is no longer just about making ink stick to the surface. It is about creating a more robust and streamlined manufacturing process. IPM

June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 21

p CORRUGAT

N KAGE PRINTING

multi-pass printing is now credible for a broader production mix than before."

Digital's use in corrugated packag­ ing wouldn't be where it is today without the help of multi-pass digital printers.

"Multi-pass systems are the preferred on ramp-they allow production teams to adopt digital printing gradually, master­ ing workflow, color control, and substrate behavior before moving into high-volume applications. Users often begin with multi-pass printers because it fits natural­ ly into their existing production mix," ex­ plains Dieter Jancart, segment manager high-end systems, printing systems, Agfa.

Erik Norman, president, swissQprint America, agrees, citing multi-pass flatbed systems as already well established in short-run production, sampling, version­ ing, and display packaging. Single pass

is increasingly positioned for medium to longer production runs where speed is critical. With this in mind, Norman notes converters adopting a hybrid strategy.

"They continue to rely on flexography for very long runs while using digital­ especially multi-pass UV flatbeds-for short runs, fast turnarounds, and high­ value applications. The shift is not about replacing flexography entirely, but about expanding production flexibility and prof­ itability," suggests Norman.

Hugo Gonzalez, senior segment spe­ cialist, Mimaki USA, Inc., echoes his peers, noting that multi-pass does "play an important role, especially in prototyp­ ing, short runs, mockups, and specialty applications. In this space, it is not so much about replacing flexographic sys­ tems, but about providing a faster and

economical option to go from concept to finished product."

On the single-pass printing side, Chuck Slingerland, VP, Barberan US, says this technology is already in full industrial use.

"Today's systems deliver high line speeds suitable for mainstream corrugated jobs, consistent and repeatable quality that meets brand expectations, and integra­ tion with automated board handling for continuous production."

"Single-pass technology is an excel­ lent solution for profitable corrugated work, versioning, retailer-specific graph­ ics, seasonal campaigns, and increasing­ ly for repeat production where converters need flexography-like productivity with digital agility," shares Bill Myers, market­ ing manager, Domino Digital Printing North America.

swissapri nt

MADE FOR WINNERS LOVED BY THOUSANDS

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June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 23

2 Another example, Daniel Velema, managing director, Koenig & Bauer Durst, says single-pass inkjet systems like the Delta SPC 130 platform print tens and tens of million sheets per year.

“Digital is no longer limited to prototyping or short runs. Converters now run digital lines around the clock for both primary and secondary packaging. These are not experimental setups; they are part of serious production strategies.”

Kristen Minlschmidt, product marketing and NPI strategy manager, HP Inc., believes that great printing alone is not enough to transition to full industrial levels of digital corrugated printing. “Converters must bring together workflows that are often siloed today, from planning and ERP, graphics and prepress, the digital press, quality inspection, through to downstream corrugation and converting, so the entire system runs as one efficient manufacturing process. Once the broader production workflow is aligned, corrugated digital printing becomes a scalable manufacturing model, not a specialty capability.”

All that being said, “industry adoption is still early—worldwide digital print in 2. The Domino X630i digital aqueous inkjet corrugated press is a single-pass corrugated press engineered for everyday production printing 4,500 sheets per hour at 600 dpi. 3. The Barberán Jetmaster 2.0 is a sheet‑fed, single‑pass industrial inkjet platform designed for true high‑volume production.

24 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

corrugated remains only a very small percentage of total volume, so the technology is ready faster than the market has fully transitioned,” admits John Kelley, managing director, Kento North America.

Thriving System Updates Engineering developments from ink sets to printheads allow digital printing to compete with analog presses in the corrugated packaging space. These updates enable a positive outcome despite the challenging nature of corrugated board.

Ink sets used for corrugated board must demonstrate specific feature sets.

“Corrugated boards are inconsistent— they warp and vary in porosity. Ink sets must be engineered to deliver exceptional jetting reliability even at high printhead gaps, ensuring clean, consistent droplet placement despite surface unevenness. The ink’s formulation should support long open printhead times, stray light robustness, and excellent jetting.

This reliability directly mitigates issues like dot gain and inconsistent absorption,” notes Jancart.

A consideration post-print is that the ink set withstand bending and creasing without cracking. “Optional inline overprint varnish can enhance surface protection and appearance so printed packaging can withstand conversion, handling, and transit,” adds Minlschmidt.

“The newest single‑pass corrugated presses tackle ink absorption, dot gain, and surface variability by engineering the primer, ink, printheads, and curing as one system. Together, these advances turn highly variable liner board into a more predictable, repeatable print platform,” explains Slingerland.

Printhead improvements include “improved recirculation technologies and more robust nozzle design, which help maintain consistency even in dusty corrugated environments. In practice, this means more stable print quality across varying liner board qualities without sacrificing productivity,” shares Kelley.

UV LED curable inks meet the needs of corrugated board. They offer a combination of durability, color performance, and energy efficiency. “UV LED technology enables instant curing, excellent adhesion, and strong abrasion resistance. High pigment density supports vibrant colors even on brown or kraft liner board. In addition, UV LED curing reduces energy consumption compared to traditional mercury lamp systems,” states Norman.

When printing with UV LED curable inks, an inline primer acts as a sealer, reducing the absorbency of high‑recycled liners and creating a more uniform surface so pigments don’t sink into the fibers or wick along the grain. “UV LED curable inks cure on this primed surface almost instantly, which limits dot gain and keeps pigments near the surface for higher color density and better durability. The primer’s surface energy is matched to the ink and to modern printhead jetting, presenting controlled wetting, clean edges, and more consistent halftones. Meanwhile multi‑zone LED curing is tuned to line speed and ink load to lock the image in place with minimal heat and warp,” explains Slingerland.

Primer technology helps standardize the print surface. “The priming station widens the usable range of top liners, improving print quality, sharpening fine

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detail and text, optimizing color gamut, and enabling flying job change with spot priming. That is highly relevant to corru­ gated because the real challenge is not only absorption, but also the variability between coated,uncoated,brown,white, and lower grade liners," says Lynn.

In addition, Koenig & Bauer Durst's digital primer provides controlled sur­ face energy and absorption uniformity.

"By stabilizing the print surface, the primer increases achievable optical den­ sity and can reduce ink consumption by up to 20 percent compared to non­ primed printing," explains Velema.

Water-based ink chemistry is also used in corrugated board printing. Cer­ tain formulations are monomer free, organic pigmented, odor free, and abra­ sion resistant, lists Lynn.

"True water-based and high-viscosity aqueous ink systems align with corru­ gated sustainability requirements and increasingly stringent regulatory expecta­ tions for direct food contact packaging.

At the same time, advances in pigment dispersion and ink formulation deliver higher color density and durability, while reducing penetration into the substrate.

This results in better print performance with lower ink consumption and improved recyclability profiles," states Kelley.

The evolution of aqueous pigment ink chemistry is significant,certain particles allow for enhanced printing reliability. "i­ Tech PolyM is a polymeric particle tech­ nology designed to print reliably on both coated and uncoated corrugated without a separate primer or bonding agent.That is significant from both a productivity and sustainability standpoint-it simpli­ fies the process, reduces consumables, and supports strong color performance while maintaining the mechanical prop­ erties needed for corrugated packaging," explains Myers.

Hybrid architectures are also note­ worthy, as they marry the advantages of flexography with digital printing in one device. This means "using flexography

industrialprtntmagazine.com

for solids, back­ grounds, whites, and spot colors, while using sin­ gle-pass inkjet where digital adds value, such as high-defini­ tion graphics, variable content, and fast changeovers. The hybrid model di­ rectly attacks the traditional economic weakness of digital in corrugated by reducing expensive digital ink consump­ tion while preserving the benefits of plate-free production," says Kelley.

Handling Media Advances are also made in regard to material handling-across every part of the process. "There are fully automated systems with loading and unloading arms, pneumatic and fixed registration systems, as well as hands free and zoned vacuum controls," lists Gonzalez.

"Automation is essential. Corrugated converters are dealing with more SKU proliferation, more substrate variation, and tighter lead times than ever before;' states Myers.

Thanks to automation, operators eas­ ily switch between different grades, flute sizes,and thicknesses."This is increasing­ ly important as they face a growing variety of board types driven by segmentation, customization, and sustainability initia­ tives;' saysJancart.

"Innovations in board stabilization­ such as optimized media guide systems on multi-pass hybrid printers and high vac­ uum tables on multi-pass flatbeds-help keep even warped or lower grade boards flat during printing. This significantly im­ proves registration, ink placement, and color consistency;' explainsJancart.

Stabilizing the board is not just a convenience feature in multi-pass sce­ narios, notes Lynn. "It is critical when the substrate itself is inconsistent in caliper, flatness, or flute profile. Better board control directly helps reduce print

defects that operators might otherwise blame on dot gain or absorbency."

'With so many board grades and flu­ te sizes in use, reliable automation in hardware and software simply keeps production predictable and profitable," adds Velema.

High-volume, single-pass print lines also use fully automated board handling.

It helps them "move seamlessly from mi­ croflute to double wall, with recipe-based setups, automatic vacuum and alignment adjustments, and warp management tuned for lightweight and high-recycled boards. T his allows plants to switch quickly between E, B, and C flutes for display and packaging work and heavy BC or double wall for shipping cases without creating bottlenecks at the press.

On the back end, automated stackers and material handling systems manage programmable stack formats, automatic counting and separation, and integration with existing conveyors and logistics for hands-off, continuous high-speed produc­ tion," states Slingerland.

Automation and workflow work hand in hand. "The physical movement of rolls, sheets, and stacks has to stay synchro­ nized with the movement of data. Auto­ mation only delivers productivity when material handling and digital job intelli­ gence work as one system, so the correct substrate,job sequence,and downstream instructions arrive together, right when they're needed," shares Minlschmidt.

"Across both multi- and single-pass printing, improvements in automation, software integration, and color manage­ ment have made digital systems more pre­ dictable and production ready. The result

June 2026 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 25

is reduced waste, faster job changeovers, and more efficient handling of variable data and multiple SKUs,” shares Norman.

For example, Gonzalez shares how front end software simplifies everything from design to print to processing—all from one interface. This increases production and reduces waste by eliminating touch points for operators.

Existing Barriers There are challenges to overcome in terms of digital printing’s wider adoption into corrugated manufacturing facilities.

According to Norman, the main barriers are still cost structure and production mindset. “Flexographic printing remains highly cost effective for very long runs.

Digital must justify itself through flexibility, reduced inventory, faster turnaround, and versioning capabilities. Another barrier is integration into existing workflows.

Converters need confidence in uptime, operator training, and predictable performance across varying board materials.”

“Digital ink cost is still a concern compared to flexography, particularly for large coverage areas. In addition, many converters are still evaluating where digital fits best within their production mix.

The transition is not just about investing in equipment—it requires changes in workflow, prepress, production planning, and commercial strategy. While the demand for shorter runs and higher SKU variation is clearly growing, the shift toward digital is happening progressively rather than overnight,” admits Kelley.

C O M PA N I E S M E N T I O N E D

Lynn suggests digital does not have to imitate flexography exactly to compete with it. “In corrugated, value increasingly comes from versioning, variable content, reduced tooling, shorter make ready, and fast changes between jobs or substrates.

So the competitive equation is no longer just ‘cost per square meter at one long repeat run,’ but overall plant efficiency and responsiveness across a job portfolio.”

“Converters need confidence in the business model—where digital fits against flexography, what run lengths make sense, how to schedule mixed analog/digital production, and how to sell the value of shorter runs, versioning, and inventory reduction to brand owners,” states Myers.

Another barrier is substrate and process complexity. “Corrugated is not one substrate; it is many. The variation in top liners, absorbency, flute construction, thickness, and converting requirements means digital success depends on engineering the process correctly—including board quality, priming, drying, color management, and finishing,” shares Lynn.

According to Minlschmidt, the challenges associated with digital adoption are more about what it takes to industrialize digital within the existing ecosystem of a corrugated plant. “Substrate variability and the production environment can all challenge consistency, so systems must be engineered and maintained for robust, repeatable production. And because corrugated manufacturing is built around highspeed material logistics, success also See page 15 for more information.

INFO# Company

Website

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agfa.com

Agfa

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Barberán US

jetmasterseries.com

102

Domino Digital Printing North America

dominodigitalprinting.com

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Durst Image Technology US

durstus.com

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HP Inc.

hp.com

105

Kento North America

kentodigitalprinting.com

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Koenig & Bauer Durst

koenig-bauer-durst.com

107

Mimaki USA, Inc.

mimakiusa.com

108

swissQprint

swissqprint.com

26 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2026

depends on seamless integration with the physical flow of rolls, sheets, and stacks staying synchronized with the flow of data, automation, and downstream instructions across the plant.”

“The primary barriers are organizational, not technical. Most converters already recognize the reliability and quality of industrial digital systems, but they are still aligning their workflows, estimating models, and production planning to fully exploit the possibilities of manufacturing digitization. Digital printing is only solving a part of the puzzle, that is also why working together with the customer and its other suppliers during a project is in our natural DNA,” admits Velema.

For multi-pass systems, Gonzalez believes the primary barrier is economical.

“While it may make sense for a smaller PSP to have a multi-pass digital system for short-run applications, it may not likely make sense for volume corrugated printers to incorporate multi-pass digital.”

Full Reach Physical upgrades to the newest digital presses from board handling to ink chemistries, as well as workflow software aid in creating a a successful environment for any corrugated packaging provider.

A hybrid approach allows for canvasing the full range of corrugated packaging, whether that be long static runs (flexography), prototypes and sampling (multi-pass digital), or high-speed multiple versions and/or SKUs (single-pass digital). While it may not be a feasible economic investment to incorporate all three at one facility, acknowledging how each technology complements the other is key.

“The plants that recognize digital as a core part of a modern hybrid production strategy—rather than a niche add on—are already using single pass as a mainstream tool and demonstrating that these remaining barriers are transitional, not structural,” suggests Slingerland.

Visit industrialprintmagazine.com in June for a webinar on this topic. IPM

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