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�DUSTRIAL OiRINT

FEATURES [ 16] Print Right Round Methods for OTO Cylindrical Printing [ 22] All Packed Up

Corrugated Package Printing Grows with Inkjet

COLUMNS Editor's Letter [Turning Heads] .............................................. 4 News Beat [ Current Industry News] .....................................5 AM [ Constant Vigilance] ..........................................................6 Corrugated [ Ramping Up Finishing] .................................. 10 Target Chart [Automated Cutting] ...................................... 15 Advertiser Index .................................................................. 21 Companies Mentioned...................................................... 21

ON THE COVER DPI Laboratory offers UV fiatbed printers that include rotary systems. See page 1 6.

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June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 3

�-RIAL 9PRINT

IN DUSTRIALPRI NTMAGAZINE.COM Volume 12, Number 3

EDffllR'S LETTER

TURNING HEADS Digital print technologies support directly decorating cylindrical ob­ jects, from drinkware like wine glasses and aluminum beer cans, to sporting goods such as baseball bats or even writing implements like pens and pencils.

Our cover story, Print Right Round, jumps into the two different methods available-dedicated devices and fiatbed printers equipped with special rotary attachments. The choice between the two is determined based on the user's cylindrical printing needs and aspirations-as well as budget.

Another topic supported by digital printing technologies? Corrugated packaging. With advancements in printhead technology, ink, and auto­ mation, inkjet is slowly but surely maturing in this space. Read more in All Packed Up. Rounding out the issue are columns on automating the finishing end of the corrugated print process and software security for additive manufac­ turing, as well as a chart listing cutting tools used for corrugated board.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Thomas Tetreault 978-921-7850 EDITOR Melissa Donovan mdonovan@rockportpubs.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cassandra Balentine cbalentine@rockportpubs.com ART DIRECTOR Sarah M. White swhite@rockportpubs.com WEB EDITOR Melissa Mueller CONTRIBUTORS Pete Basiliere, Olivia Cahoon, Kemal Carr, Maria Conrado, Mark Hanley, 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

CusToM PuBLISHING

Melissa Donovan, Editor 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 2025. 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 2025

industrialprintmagazine.com

INDUSTRY

PHOSEON UV CURING SYSTEMS FROM EXCELITAS AVAILABLE WITH MODBUS TCP COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL Excelitas announces the availability of en­ hanced Phoseon UV LED curing systems with newly integrated Modbus TCP communication protocol for high-speed data exchange and re­ mote access.

This significant upgrade to Phoseon prod­ ucts' robust control architecture allows faster, more intelligent communication with FireJet ONE, FireJet FJ100, FireJet FJ240, Fi reline FL400, and FireLine FL440 UV LED curing sys­ tems. Customers now have the flexibility to choose between RS485 or Modbus TCP com­ munication protocols-ensuring compatibility with a range of automation and process con­ trol environments.

The new ethernet-enabled products retain the proven benefits of Phoseon products, includ­ ing long product lifetime powered by patented semiconductor light matrix technology, superior uniformity, efficient thermal management, and seamless integration with existing systems.

The Phoseon FireJet and FireLine series from Excelitas offer scalable UV LED curing so­ lutions with a variety of cooling options, wave­ lengths, and irradiance levels. With more than 200,000 Phoseon units shipped and over two million hours of LED testing, Phoseon products set the standard for high performance, energy efficient, and environmentally sustainable UV curing.� NFD#161

industrialprtntmagazine.com

THERMWOOD UNVEILS THE MAX5 Thermwood Corporation releases its large scale five-axis CNC machine, the Thermwood MAX5.

Engineered for industries that require size, strength, and precision, the MAX5 redefines what's possible in large format five-axis CNC routing.

Designed to tackle the most demanding three-dimensional (30) machining applications, the MAX5 is ideal for producing large to extremely large components for aerospace, marine, automo­ tive, and construction. From massive molds to complex structural elements, the MAX5 delivers unmatched power, precision, and durability.

The MAX5 is a heavy-duty, high-clearance, five-axis CNC router built to perform in the most ex­ treme machining environments. Utilizing advanced 30 modeling and Finite Element Analysis, the MAX5 is structurally optimized to maintain peak performance even during complex, high-stress, multi-axis operations.

Every element of the MAX5 is engineered, built, and supported by Thermwood in house. This single-source approach ensures complete system accountability, easier upgrades, and the confi­ dence that comes from working with a trusted partner.� NFD#160

BOSTON INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS LAUNCHES NATRON INKS Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. introduces Na­ tron 504N Series UV ink for Epson XP600, TX800, DX5, DX7, and DX10 printheads. This UV LED ink is engineered to deliver outstanding performance on both hard and semi-flexible materials. Addi­ tionally, the Natron 504N is fully compatible with any printer equipped with the aforementioned Epson printheads.

Natron 504N inkjet ink represents a commit­ ment to innovating and bringing cutting-edge technology to the printing industry. It guarantees vibrant, long-lasting prints whether printing on packaging material or rigid prints.� NFD#162

MUTOH INK REGULATION COMPLIANT Mutoh America, Inc. announces that its ink lines-US-11, UH-21, and MP-31-are now com­ pliant with U.S. toy safety regulations, including the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) and California Proposition 65. This com­ pliance allows for the safe use of Mutoh printers and inks in the production of goods intended for use by children and in sensitive environments.

While not a formal certification, the inks meet the chemical content requirements outlined in both CPSIA and Prop 65.� NFD#163 1. The Phoseon Fireline series from Excelitas offers scal­ able UV LED curing solutions. 2. The Thermwood MAX5 features a 17 horsepower liquid cooled spindle.

June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 5

AM

CONSTANT VIGILANCE Protecting AM with Software Security Methods

by Industrial Print Magazine Staff

When three-dimensional (3D) printers are connected to the internet, they become sus­ ceptible to cyberattacks.

"This leaves consumer and corporate networks vulnerable to theft of private data, ransomware attacks, and disruption to normal course of busi­ ness and life. Employing proper security practices can prevent these attacks that result in significant costs to corporations and consumers," explains Christopher Stricklan, CEO/co-founder, Kra­ etonics, LLC. Implementing software with real-time monitoring, authentication, encryption, and other security features helps proactively manage risk. security for AM is important because of the many attack vec­ tors, for example IP theft and the insertion of faults into de­ Additive manufacturing (AM) requires safeguards that protect vices. "Software is both the cause of those attack vectors and with secure, end-to-end solutions, it can protect against them." vulnerable files and data.

While this has always been true, with AM expanding beyond Looking particularly at IP, Marcellus Buchheit, president/ prototyping and into "producing critical components for aero­ CEO, Wibu-Systems USA Inc., says protecting digital files for space, defense, medical, and energy sectors," it is now more 3D printing is critical for safeguarding IP, preventing unau­ critical than ever to protect the process, according to Brent thorized use, and maintaining data integrity.

"From concept to the printed object, many stakeholders Stucker, chief scientist, Nikon SLM Solutions. ''As machines become more connected for efficiency, remote contribute to the AM process. The actual digital design of the monitoring, and data-driven optimization, they also become printed object represents or contains the IP of its maker, and today, those digital printmore exposed. Every ,, connected machine be­ � ing files are more often - - - - - - � - - - - - comes a potential entry than not distributed to point for cyber threats the various stakeholders that can compromise in­ via the internet. In many tellectual property (IP), cases, that object is only one part of a finished alter part geometries, or even affect the material product assembled by properties of mission­ another agent in that process-an integrator critical components," continues Stucker.

- Marcellus Buchheit, president/CEO, Wibu-Systems USA Andre Wagner, CEO, 1. Flows workfiow management from Authentise.

Authentise, says software ,,

Importance of Security

Achieving the optimal level of security will provide the necessary protections for the application while not overly restricting the end user processes.

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AM

or perhaps a vendor. In other cases, the actual 3D printing will be handled by a third party service provider. At every step in the process, the digital IP needs to be protected against theft, piracy, and tampering, but still be readily available for legitimate agents to use, process, and reprocess,” continues Buchheit.

There are so many different parts of the 3D printing process that if one section is interfered with, the whole process is ruined. For example, “in metal AM, the digital thread—CAD, process parameters, scan strategies, and build data— holds the recipe for performance. If even one variable is tampered with the end part could fail without warning. That’s why software security isn’t just an IT concern; it’s a manufacturing integrity concern. Secure AM workflows protect

IP, ensure traceability, and guarantee the safety and reliability of printed parts,” states Stucker.

Another example, at 3YOURMIND the company works with defense organizations where securing the production chain is critical. “Data in the hands of malevolent actors could give them an advantage; such as sabotaging parts by altering the print files before production,” shares Felix Bauer, CTO, 3YOURMIND. “Secure AM software is vital to protect IP, ensure design integrity, and prevent malicious alterations. The uptime of machines is the most vital aspect in a manufacturing environment. There has to be a complete 360 degree perspective on all aspects of security in all layers,” says Ajay Bharadwaj, head of software development, Intech Additive Solutions.

Type of Software End-to-end workflow software is one defense against vulnerabilities. Standalone solutions, like in-process monitoring, authentications, and encryption are also useful.

“The system is as secure as the most vulnerable point. So all aspects should be considered in terms of security,” admits Bharadwaj. This means many different software solutions with multiple purposes can be considered, for example, counterfeiting of spares, real-time monitoring solutions like tampering of parameter sets for each print, multistage authentication of parameter sets, end point security, encryption of print files, secure transfer, and audit systems.

According to Stucker, important layers of software security in AM include

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June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 7

AM

2 access control and authentication systems, which restrict and log access to machines, software platforms, and files, ensuring only authorized personnel can make changes. Another is end-toend encryption; data is protected as it moves through the AM workflow—from design to print to inspection. Real-time monitoring and intrusion detection helps track unusual machine behavior or file access patterns that might signal tampering. File integrity monitoring ensures that build files haven’t been modified since approval. Audit logs and version control provide traceability for compliance and forensic analysis in case of a breach.

2. 3YOURMIND’s Part Identification is a software tool

that aids engineers in determining the best manufacturing method for spare parts.

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

“These systems work together to create a resilient and transparent AM environment, giving manufacturers peace of mind and auditors clear visibility,” adds Stucker.

File encryption, digital rights management solutions, and access control systems are also used to protect 3D printing files, says Buchheit. He also notes Advanced Encryption Standard is an industry standard tool used for secure file transmissions. Rivest-Shamir-Adleman uses public key encryption schemes while end-to-end encryption ensures that only authorized parties can access the file during sharing or storage.

“Combining two or more of these mechanisms greatly enhances protection of the IP embedded in the 3D printing files,” continues Buchheit.

See page 21 for more information.

INFO# Company

Website

100

3yourmind.com

3YOURMIND

101

Addiguru

addiguru.com

102

Authentise

authentise.com

103

Intech Additive Solutions

intechadditive.com

104

Kraetonics, LLC

kraetonics.com

105

Nikon SLM Solutions

nikon-slm-solutions.com

106

Wibu-Systems USA Inc.

wibu.com/us

8 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2025

Tools like binary diversification (BINDIV) provide passive protections to computer systems. “Kraetonic’s goal is to support manufacturers to integrate BINDIV into their development operations pipeline to prevent bad actors from being able to massively exploit their systems,” explains Stricklan.

Many software providers collaborate to help with security.

For example, Authentise is part of a government-funded CYMANII project. “It proves that, by combining integrated end-to-end workflow software with separate in-process monitoring suites— we work with Addiguru in this case—we can radically reduce the errors inserted in the process thanks to triangulation of machine data, monitoring data, and Authentise’s workflow data,” explains Wagner.

Stricklan points out that the responsibility of security should be on the printer manufacturers, however consumers can also take ownership. “Consumers can employ network intrusion detection software, firewalls, and anti-virus products. These solutions are reactive and not proactive, but provide some level of protection and situational awareness.

The downside is that they can be expensive, difficult for consumers to deploy, or not supported by the AM platforms. The two most important things a consumer can do is to make sure to perform regular firmware updates when they are provided by the manufacturer and choose a manufacturer that is dedicated and proactive in providing secure products.”

The 3D printer’s firmware should support secure protocols for full traceability. “Ideally, 3D files are decrypted by the printer just before the print. That way, it should not be possible to alter the file or reprint the file without authorization. However, there are some challenges with that. Currently, print vendors

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AM

lack a standard for secure protocols. In addition, 3D files often need to be preprocessed before the print. To ensure full security, the print preparation must be performed by the IP owner and not by the print operator, which can be a challenge,” admits Bauer.

Security Musts Every 3D printing solution should regularly maintain certain security standards.

According to Buchheit it is important to balance between integrating layers of security versus ease of use for the operator. “Achieving the optimal level of security will provide the necessary protections for the application while not overly restricting the end user processes. Ideally, built-in security solutions should provide end-to-end encryption of the digital print file, from design to printed object, as well as ensuring secure transmission of the encryption keys required to decrypt the file for printing.”

Wagner says standards like ISO/IEC 27001:2022 or NIST SP 800-53 must be followed. CMMC is necessary. Furthermore, he states that a software solution in his opinion isn’t viable unless SSO and on-premise compatibility are standard.

Stucker lists role-based access control, secure file transfer protocols, audit trails and logs, encrypted storage and communication, real-time anomaly detection, and firmware validation as important considersations.

Bharadwaj’s must haves are authentication of usability, data encryption, integrity checks, and end point security. He says also helpful is a feature that can limit the number of times a particular part can be built. This prevents unauthorized manufacturing of certain components and limits growth of grey market.

Files encrypted both at rest and in transit, a permission system to allow only authorized personnel to access the files, and software protected using industry standards and practices are all things Bauer recommends as necessary.

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For nice-to-have security features, Stucker suggests biometric authentication, air-gapped printing capabilities, integration with enterprise cybersecurity systems, self-healing software that can isolate compromised modules, and automated alerts with artificial intelligence (AI)-based prioritization.

Also on the wish list, “a zero-trust production chain with end-to-end encryption from CAD tool to printer. However, this is difficult to achieve. In reality it is still often the printer operator or service bureau that need to be trusted by the IP owner,” continues Bauer.

Manufacturers of AM platforms should conduct firmware updates to ensure security is up to date, according to Stricklan. “Manufacturers need to regularly perform red teaming assessments of AM platforms to identify any vulnerabilities. They should provide firmware updates as needed to close known vulnerabilities reported to the cyber vulnerability enumeration database or ones they found internally during their red team assessment process.”

AI in Security AI plays many roles, and one of them is in security. It’s helpful in quickly detecting when something is amiss.

“AI helps identify intrusion events by detecting anomalies,” suggests Wagner.

Ideally, AI functions in a proactive role. “By analyzing vast streams of machine behavior, user activity, and data flow, AI can identify subtle deviations that might escape traditional rule-based systems. For example, a shift in laser parameters that doesn’t match the original build file, or access from an unusual IP address, can be flagged instantly,” explains Stucker.

Bharadwaj agrees. “AI can be a boon in terms of identifying threats such as anomaly detection, predictive threat detection, and even automated action.”

Furthermore, “AI-driven behavioral analysis and predictive analytics can

flag deviations in typical user behavior, such as unusual login locations, access times, or activity patterns that may indicate data compromises. AI models based on historical data are used to predict future threats and vulnerabilities, allowing organizations to proactively strengthen defenses before an attack occurs,” says Buchheit.

“Using AI to augment our ability to solve problems faster will make developers and analysts faster and more efficient,” asserts Stricklan.

Examples of this include vulnerability assessment and network intrusion detection. “Teams have performed custom training of neural network, tensor flow, and large language models to help identify vulnerabilities in source code and machine code to aid in the discovery of vulnerabilities before software is released. Network intrusion detection is an area where AI excels by quickly identifying patterns of network communications that differ from the norm.

Both of these capabilities augment a human’s ability to identify errors early to help prevent exploitation of systems and networks,” adds Stricklan.

“Manufacturers should employ AI models to assess their platforms for possible vulnerabilities, determine if bad actors are attempting to infiltrate a network, and use sidecar capabilities to help improve the security of their software. The proper use of AI can be a significant benefit when used effectively,” says Stricklan.

Software Security Vulnerabilities range from bad actors to ransomware. They are now all common in 3D printing. Implementing software with real-time monitoring, authentication, encryption, and other security features helps proactively manage any risk. It’s up to both the user and hardware provider to stay vigilant as AM becomes more reliant on the internet. IPM

June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 9

CORRUGATED

RAMPING UP FINISHING Automating the Corrugated Process

by Melissa Donovan

Automation takes digital printing to corrugated board to the next level. Digital finishing components automate the back end—and even material handing mechanisms that move the media both at the front as well as the end of the process benefit from evident efficiencies.

Due to the nature of corrugated board—it’s bulky and subject to warping—maintaining a consistent print and finishing process with little to no manual handling is key to processing large production runs as well as shorter, more customized orders.

Importance of Automation Whether inline, near line, or offline, automated finishing and material handling is an important part of the corrugated digital printing equation. It is helpful to rely on automation to 1 move these large sheets of media before and after the printing process. processed with the same precision, accuracy, and efficiency According to Randi Kerkaert, product manager, Summa, as the first sheet eliminating variations caused by human er“automation, whether inline, near line, or offline, is crucial in rors. This is especially important in corrugated digital printmodern corrugated digital printing. It enables both personaling, where maintaining uniformity across large or short runs ization and standardization, reducing the minimum volume is key to meeting customer expectations both in quality and required for customization.” lead time,” explains Nimil David, product manager, robotics “Automation of the corrugated print process is crucial for and automation, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems. maximizing efficiency, reducing labor costs, and ensuring conSpecifically, automating the front end of the process sistent quality,” explains “streamlines job prepaMartin Thornton, execurations, reducing setup tive sales manager, Zund times and errors, which America, Inc. is essential for handling Consistency across short runs. Automated every finished print is im1. The Kongsberg Feeder & perative. “Automation enStacker combination speeds up short-run production by eliminatsures consistency in both ing manual handling bottlenecks quality and production — Randi Kerkaert, product manager, Summa and reduces both material damspeed. For instance, the age and waste, without additional labor costs.

100th or 1,000th sheet is

Automation, whether inline, near line, or offline, is crucial in modern corrugated digital printing.

10 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2025

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CORRUGATED

material handling eliminates bottlenecks in loading materials into printers, ensuring consistent throughput,” shares David.

On the back end, David says “automation guarantees effective and efficient stacking, preventing bottlenecks that could slow down production. In order to achieve a smooth workflow with minimal manual intervention, performance of the automation machine is critical. For instance, the stacker should be able to pick up all cut details to avoid any disruption of the workflow.”

Automating both the delivery and unloading of media is key to achieving maximum productivity and quality.

“Large format boards are easily damaged when manually fed to printers and cutters. Automation not only improves

throughput but also reduces waste and improves the quality of the final product,” explains Rick Stark, owner, Infinite Motion Control, Inc. It’s important to point out how influential automation is today in the labor force. “With rising labor costs and a shortage of skilled operators, front- and back-end automation ensures a 24/7 production workflow, offering a significant competitive advantage, especially in high labor cost markets,” adds Kerkaert.

“Having the correct machine to get this done quickly and efficiently is vital to a well-functioning shop. Automating the cutting is not only more efficient but necessary for high production or complex contoured cuts,” admits Jason Friesen, national CNC sales manager sign segment, Laguna Tools.

Board Talks Automation can be useful no matter what material is being processed, but corrugated board is a prime candidate.

“Corrugated boards are generally large and bulky, especially in larger quantities, making manual handling inefficient and labor intensive. Automated systems, such as robotic loaders, stackers, and conveyor systems reduce the need for manual intervention, improving productivity and consistent output quality,” says Thornton.

Due to the physical nature of corrugated media, it is susceptible to issues like warping and moisture variations.

“This can significantly affect the quality of the final product. This also poses challenges to automated material handling, therefore, automation solutions should

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June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 11

CORRUGATED

2 be developed in a way that mitigate these challenges,” explains David.

The size and structure of corrugated board makes it nearly impossible to manually load well. “As printing speeds increase it is no longer possible to manually load large format boards to match the throughput of the printer. Automation in

the corrugated industry is essential in reducing human exposure to repetitive motion task injuries. Automatic feeding and stacking virtually eliminates the need for human touch,” says Stark.

According to Keith Verkem, national sales manager/senior product manager, Colex Finishing Solutions Inc., “because

corrugated is usually knife cut it is ideal for conveyor belt systems to load and offload the material.”

Friesen seconds the advantage of using a knife for cutting corrugated. “This material is perfect for CNC’s equipped with a knife system. Corrugated board can be cut quickly and efficiently whether it is straight cuts or complex contoured cutting,” says Friesen.

“Pieces of corrugated board require precise cutting, creasing, and scoring to ensure proper folding and assembly. Automation ensures consistency and accuracy, reducing waste and ensuring structural integrity in packaging applications,” summarizes Thornton.

Options Aligned Automated finishing and media handling components can run inline, offline, or near line to a digital printer.

Each option has its advantages as well as disadvantages.

Inline In this scenario, finishing and media handling mechanisms are connected directly to the printer.

“Inline pallet-to-pallet processing stands out for its efficiency, requiring the fewest touches and even enabling lights-out production,” admits Stark.

3

12 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2025

2. Laguna Tools’ Smart Shop MT Elite is a versatile router platform equipped with Fanuc controls that enable seamless operation, precise movements, and unrivaled reliability. 3. Zünd offers multifunctional, highly modular, and customizable cutting solutions for corrugated.

industrialprintmagazine.com

CORRUGATED

Thornton says a seamless workflow should eliminate the need for manual intervention between printing and finishing. At least in theory, there is a faster turnaround since printed boards move directly into finishing, eliminating any handling delay.

“Inline finishing ensures seamless alignment between print and finishing processes, improving quality control,” notes David.

The issue with inline is speed mismatch, admits Thornton. “More often than not, digital printing and finishing processes differ in speed, which leads to inevitable slowdowns in one or the other.”

Integrating finishing directly into the printing process also creates dust accumulation, which requires continued maintenance, according to Kerkaert.

Another disadvantage to inline is it limits flexibility. “Inline systems are designed for specific processes, making it harder to accommodate complex finishing needs—as opposed to e.g. simple slitting operations,” notes Thornton.

There is higher risk when investing in a fully connected, inline process. “If one part of the system—printer, cutter, automation—fails, the entire production line may be affected,” cautions David.

According to Thornton, the best fit for inline is a high-volume, standardized corrugated packaging operation with minimal finishing complexity.

Offline When finishing and material handling tools are kept completely separate from printing it is referred to as offline.

Maximum flexibility is the biggest advantage here. “Different finishing equipment can be used depending on job complexity. Each system—printing and finishing—operates at its maximum speed, avoiding slow downs of one or the other,” shares Thornton.

“Offline provides the highest level of flexibility, making it ideal for complex or high-value projects. However, it requires additional handling, which may slow down production,” agrees Kerkaert.

Lack of connectivity is also a disadvantage in offline configurations. “Offline requires manual handling or additional automated transport systems, adding potential labor costs and delays.

There is slower overall production workflow compared to inline/nearline solutions,” states Thornton.

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June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 13

CORRUGATED

AI IN CORRUGATED Artificial intelligence (AI) influences corrugated printing and finishing, powering the automated process.

“AI is already making an impact on automated finishing through intelligent proofing, quality control, and optimization in nesting and production processes. However, we are still in the early stages, where experimentation is widespread, but the full productivity benefits are yet to materialize,” admits Randi Kerkaert, product manager, Summa.

Kerkaert cites Gartner’s Hype Cycle. “AI in corrugated printing is currently in the ‘inflated

“There is a longer overall turnaround time and space restrictions could be possible as additional storage and floor space might be needed to accommodate materials from each stage,” suggests David.

Near Line Finishing is separate but close to the printer in a near line configuration, and may be connected via conveyors or some other means of automation.

Reduced downtime is a positive. “If one part needs maintenance, the other can continue operating independently,” says David.

Near line finishing balances speed and flexibility. “It allows for automation without fully integrating into the print line, offering the ability to handle multiple job types efficiently,” explains Kerkaert.

A big advantage here is that if you are considering adopting more complex

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

expectations’ phase. Over the next two to three years, as businesses refine AI applications and integrate them into real-world production, we will reach the ‘plateau of productivity,’ where AI delivers tangible value in automation and efficiency.”

In regards to material handling, Nimil David, product manager, robotics and automation, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems says, “with ample data and predictive tools, AI enhanced technologies can potentially be used with high-resolution cameras, sensors, and with machine-learning algorithms. The technologies can also scan and analyze the corrugated board for

finishing methods beyond slitting operations, it is easier to implement without influencing the printing process, notes Thornton.

A challenge with near line is that it “requires sophisticated technology and space for additional material handling and transport systems,” admits Thornton.

The best fit for near line is “mediumto high-volume production with varied job complexity, where automation is a priority, but inline finishing is not practical,” recommends Thornton.

Stark believes near line offers the best of both inline and offline. “Near line processing retains many advantages of inline while adding the capability to store or accumulate material overflow, which when automated can be seamlessly reintroduced into the workflow when feed rates between printing and finishing are not aligned.”

See page 21 for more information.

INFO# Company

Website

110

Colex Finishing Solutions Inc.

colex.com

111

Infinite Motion Control, Inc.

infinitemc.com

112

Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems

kongsbergsystems.com

113

Laguna Tools

lagunatools.com

114

Summa

summa.com

115

Zund America, Inc.

zund.com

14 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2025

the warp and automatically adjust the settings for the automation systems.”

This isn’t the only possibility. AI is also used “to detect a defective board, so that it can be prevented from being digitally converted and avoid loss of time and directly moving to the next sheet,” adds David.

“AI-powered smart scanners and sensors help detect what the human eye may miss.

AI-powered readers also help with tracking of completed jobs and allow real-time production feedback to customers and management,” adds Rick Stark, owner, Infinite Motion Control, Inc.

Future of Finishing The power of automation continues to expand. It is only logical that its integration into the entire print process closes the gap, moving from offline to near line and eventually inline.

“Automation in near line or offline finishing remains highly important to keep up with the high-speed digital printing process. With further innovations in robotic material handling automation—the critical component that links the two systems—it will no doubt be possible in the future to create flexible, yet fully integrated inline production workflows,” admits Thornton.

Automated inline finishing solutions meet the needs of the industry. “With industry trends favoring shorter runs and rapid delivery, inline and near line solutions are becoming increasingly essential,” states Kerkaert.

To keep pace with the increasing speeds of digital printing and finishing components, “we see the need for automation that allows for lights out production,” notes Stark.

“Looking ahead, it is crucial to stay aligned with emerging corrugated production methods and industry innovations and to have a proactive and adapting approach to these advancements, future-proofing our business,” concludes David. IPM

industrialprintmagazine.com

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1,280x2,100 mm

✓

✓

126x86

20

CM ✓

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CM

✓

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244x98

50

CM ✓

✓

✓

✓

CM

CM

2 in

6.5 fps ✓

✓

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✓

CM

CM

CM

4.38 f s ✓

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60x120

50

120 ✓

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CM

✓

126.4x217.3

30

110 ips ✓

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CM

CM

CM

CM ✓

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$86,999 CM

125 Elitron America Inc. elitron.com 126 Graphco ra hco.com

KomboTAV

✓

Kombo SD Series

✓

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SD-Ital Au usta F50R PRO

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SD-Ital Au usta Fl R2 PRO Vector Feeder/Stacker

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128

Kon sber Ultimate

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129

Smart Shop MT Elite

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CF3-2513 CF3-2531

mimakiusa.com 131 Summa summa.com

132 Sun Automation Group

✓

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127 Infinite Motion Control Inc.

130

✓

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CM

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100x51

20 to 54 1,000 mm/sec ✓

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100x126

20 to 54 1,000 mm/sec ✓

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CM

CF3-2550

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100x200

20 to 54 1,000 mm/sec ✓

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CM

F1612

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64x48

1 in

39.4 ips ✓

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1 in

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V-lntegra

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V0 - tima

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60.5x125

14.3

12,000 ✓

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25x50

22

360 in/hr ✓

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56.5

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SUN625 Rota Die Cutter

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sunautomation.com 133 Vision Engraving and Routing S stems

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visionen ravers.com 134 Zund America, Inc. zund.com

KEY

*Unless otherwise noted CM = Contact Manufacturer fps = feet per second

industrialprtntmagazine.com

✓ ✓

in = inches in/hr = inches per hour ipm = inches per minute

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ips = inches per second mm = millimeters mm/sec = millimeters per second

June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 15

"The two systems are very different, with the cylindrical printer really being designed for production-level volumes and the capital cost that goes with it. You will likely find the inks designed for spe­ cific applications, hence the system may be focused on specific products such as glass bottles or cans," notes Paul Ed­ wards, VP of the digital division, INX International Ink Co.

Dedicated Cylindrical Printing One way to print to cylindrical objects is with a dedicated device.

Edwards lists speed as the top ad­ vantage of this method. "Depending upon the design of the system, you can get throughput up to around 500 prod­ ucts per minute. However, it is likely that people are more often running at

speeds of around 100 to 300 products per minute."

Another advantage of printing direct­ ly to cylindrical objects with a dedicated printer is that it creates a stronger bond to the substrate, as long as the material is compatible, shares Rick Marcelo, technical director, Arcus Printers. "You also get faster print speeds with this method. Some dedicated cylindrical printers even have the ability to print on different surface angles, like a sloped cup instead of just a perfect cylinder."

Quality is another perk. "The quality of the product can be very good from a color and detail perspective, and the printing finish looks nice and smooth.

Depending upon the number of channels in the printer, a range of colors and fea­ tures are available," offers Edwards.

Michale Perrelli, director of sales, In­ novative Digital Systems (IDS), says di­ rect cylindrical printing offers the ability to print in full color range with special effects and seamless full-wrap design, unlike pad printing, silk screen, label, or offset print solutions.

"Digital print is of course also syn­ onymous with a wide color gamut, and this carries through to DTO digital print­ ing," sharesJessica Makrinos, marketing manager, Inkcups.

DTO UV inkjet printers typically print with CMYK, white, and varnish, but Makrinos says Inkcups' Helix range of cylindrical printers have the ability to add light cyan and light magenta. ''Ad­ ditionally, different techniques with var­ nish, varying ink opacity, or base ink lay­ ers make it possible to produce a range

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June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine J 17

image quality. This is where the importance of ink design and system understanding plays a role.”

A substrate may require additional primers to promote adhesion, and in some cases, it may be incompatible, meaning the ink won’t stick, admits Marcelo.

Flatbed Options

1 of striking special effects that wouldn’t be possible with other printing technologies—from etching and luster to mirror print and stained glass effects.”

Perrelli points out that a dedicated cylindrical printer can efficiently print variable data, allowing for fast and accurate customization processes as well as reduced minimums.

Lon Riley, founder and principal collaborator, DPI Laboratory, says some dedicated cylindrical print machines can have a larger ink throw and more easily accommodate and level obscure shapes, as compared to flatbed rotary systems.

They are also fast in one-up printing.

Direct printing eliminates the need for additional production steps, simplifying the workflow, adds Marcelo.

There are limitations to consider.

Dedicated cylindrical print machines are still quite expensive and only perform that one rotary action, adds Riley.

Emilio Rangel, UV product manager, Mutoh America, Inc., agrees, noting that these machines are also typically restricted to cylindrical items, making them less adaptable for businesses that need to print on a variety of substrates.

“They cannot often accommodate flat or irregularly shaped products, requiring companies to invest in multiple printers to meet diverse printing needs.”

Edwards also sees potential challenges with adhesion, ink laydown quality, and system reliability. “Given the nature of the system, it is not very tolerant to losing nozzles without impacting the

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

See page 21 for more information.

INFO# Company

Website

150

arcusprinters.com

Arcus Printers

151

DPI Laboratory

dpi-lab.com

152

Inkcups

inkcups.com

153

Innovative Digital Systems

ids-digital.com

154

INX International Ink Co.

inxinternational.com

155

LSINC Corporation

lsinc.com

156

Mimaki USA, Inc.

mimakiusa.com

157

Mutoh America, Inc.

mutoh.com

158

Roland DGA Corporation

rolanddga.com

18 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] June 2025

In addition to dedicated cylindrical printers, UV flatbed printers with rotary attachments allow for printing onto or around cylindrical objects.

Cost is a consideration. Perrelli notes that flatbeds may be more affordable than a dedicated cylindrical press.

Versatility is also an advantage, as flatbed printers offer the ability to print on a variety of cylindrical objects such as mugs and bottles, without needing a specialized machine. “You can convert back and forth between cylindrical and traditional flatbed goods. You can easily switch between printing on cylindrical objects and flatbed items. A print shop can quickly adjust settings to accommodate different objects or projects, allowing for efficient transitions from one print job to another,” adds Perrelli.

“These devices can print on flat substrates and cylindrical objects, making them ideal multi-purpose investments,” agrees Philip Chu, UV printer product manager, Roland DGA Corporation.

Bullington notes that flatbed printing may have a quality advantage if the media contains a flat surface that deviates from the swept cylinder by more than the jetting distance.

Printing directly to the substrate using a desktop flatbed printer can also result in a strong bond, provided the material is compatible, says Marcelo. “There are no extra production steps required, and you can achieve photo-quality prints with unlimited color options.”

Similar to dedicated presses, Marcelo points out that primers or specific surface 1. A kebab option is available on the Mimaki UJF

Series printers to support cylindrical printing.

industrialprintmagazine.com

#4

preparation may be needed to ensure good adhesion.

Hugo Gonzalez, senior segment specialist, industrial products, Mimaki USA, Inc., points out that printing di­ rectly to a cylindrical object on a flatbed printer enables printing more objects at one time, especially using a jig. "In this case, a printer can reasonably print a full table in about the time it would take one or two full wrap prints on a kebab tool."

2

Rangel admits there are some limita­ tions primarily with object shapes and sizes. For example, cylindrical objects with handles-like coffee mugs-are un­ able to run through a rotary due to clear­ ance restrictions. "Despite these limita­ tions, a rotary attachment significantly expands the range of products users can customize."

Riley agrees, adding that once you level it, the process is repeatable and rotary printing is only one of many functions that flatbeds can perform.

"You can make very high-quality rotary prints and still have the benefit of a printer that can customize promotional products, produce signage, and everything else that these machines are designed for.

Marcelo feels the process tends to be slower because the printer only uses a portion of the printhead to maintain a consistent focal length. You also can't print on surfaces with angles, since any change in focal length results in blurry images. Finally, most desktop flatbeds can only print on one object at a time."

Scenario Based

TEQUILA

E:L TRUENO

20 [ lndustfiaf Print Magazine J June 2025

Depending on a print provider's cylindrical printing needs and aspirations, as well as budget, the choice between a dedicated press or flatbed with rotary op­ tion might be obvious.

"Some businesses may find that adapting one of their existing flat­ beds to have some cylindrical print­ ing capability may be something that works for them in the short term when they are first exploring the possibilities of DTO cylindrical printing," suggests Makrinos.

Rangel says customers often prefer the versatility of a desktop UV printer with a rotary option due to the range of objects that can be printed on, noting that its flexibility is valuable for businesses that serve

diverse markets and need to accommo­ date various product types.

If quality is essential, Bullington ad­ mits that the image quality of a cylindri­ cal printer on cylindrical and pseudo­ cylindrical media will always be better by following the curvature for a consistent print gap than what can be achieved on a flatbed where the print gap varies. How­ ever, if the media contains a flat surface and it is the only surface to be decorated, a flatbed solution may be simpler to use.

"This will depend on the media and how the cure lamps interact with the support fixtures for the media as to how success­ ful one will be."

A dedicated cylindrical printer is bet­ ter suited for printing on multi-planed surfaces or objects with angle changes.

"These printers are also ideal for larger cylinders with varying depths and pro­ files. If you're doing high-volume work, a dedicated cylindrical printer is definitely the way to go," states Marcelo.

Learning Curves When moving from an analog process to digital there is a learning curve.

Edwards admits that learning how to utilize the equipment to get the best results on a specific product type can take some time. "There are image de­ sign complexities, for example. Some designs are more achievable with a digi­ tal system and some less. Since this is a process color system, you need to en­ sure that the system is correctly profiled to achieve accurate color reproduction."

Marcelo suggests print providers may go through several test runs and waste parts until the correct measurements are determined. "But once parameters are established for a specific cylinder, you can save that configuration and use it again in the future."

Specific to dedicated units, Marcelo admits it's hard to generalize the learning 2. LSINC produces the PeriOne, PeriQ360, and Peri­ vallo360m, which are all capable of printing on cylin­ drical and tapered media.

industrialprintmagazine.com

curve because there are so many differ­ ent printing technologies out there. "With a flatbed printer, the learning curve is relatively simple. You're just adjusting the artwork size and placement, so there's no need to conduct image separations."

One area that requires some knowl­ edge is design. Rangel explains that setting up artwork for a curved surface requires a different approach than de­ signing for a flat print, as users must consider distortion and alignment.

During art development the same traditional techniques of art stretching apply as required for offset and screen printing. "If one wants a logo to look like a circle from the front, the art must be stretched from side to side so one's eyes perceive it as a circle from the viewer's perspective. Simple online tutorials can have an artist fully functional upon completion," explains Bullington.

Riley also feels that some people struggle a bit upfront with visualizing

the orientation and placement of art on objects when moving between flat and rotary. "With our Catalyst printers, the rotary is simply an extension of the flatbed so the actual process of embel­ lishing a cylindrical object is exactly the same as printing a flat object. We can also use the same repeatable tem­ plates, making it easier for operators to print two, three, or four objects on the rotary at the same time, or call up prior jobs and easily repeat them."

Rangel says the printing process itself is user friendly given that Mutoh provides detailed instructional videos and implements features in its RIP soft­ ware, VerteLith, that allow users to out­ put jobs without the need to make many changes on the fly.

When working with a kebab option on the Mimaki UJF Series printers, Gonzalez feels that the learning curve is quite short. Mimaki authorized dis­ tributors offer training, and there's a ten

minute video available from Mimaki on installation of the kebab option.

"Understanding the mechanics and the technical applications of the cylin­ drical printer are the key to shortening the learning curve," states Perrelli.

IDS' technical team is dedicated to installing and training customers as well as providing continuous support for its solutions to minimize the learn­ ing curve and ensure a smooth and ef­ ficient process.

Cylindrical Focus The potential of digital DTO cylindrical printing is notable. From cans to glass­ ware, these objects are decorated quickly with the added bonus of customization capabilities. For high volumes and odd shapes, a dedicated press has advantages if the economics support it. If you're look­ ing to add versatility and print to a variety of objects-cylindrical or not-a flatbed press may be the way to go. /PM

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

- P(Vldirectl With just a few clicks, order FREE information from dozens of companies covered in this issue.

AD INDEX t

9 1 2 10 3

Barberan Corruaated NA Canon U.S.A. Inc. Infinite Motion Control Inc. Koenin & Bauer Durst GmbH Laauna Tools

.. ..

25 27 11 23 13

ietmasterseries.com usa.canon.com inflnitemc.com koenin-bauer-durst.com laaunatools.com

4 5 6 7 8

COMPANIES MENTIONED Company

3YOURMIND Addiouru Arcus Printers Authentise AXYZ Barberan Corruaated NA Bavsek Machines lncornorated Brausse Grouo Calex Finishina Solutions Inc. Colex Finishing Inc. CorruSvstems B.V. Domino North America DPI Laboratorv Elitron America Inc. Granhco

industrialprtntmagazine.com

I INFO# 100 101 150 102 120 140 121 122 110 123 124 141 151 125 126

Company

HP Inc. Infinite Motion Control Inc. Infinite Motion Control Inc. lnkcuos Innovative Diaital Svstems lntech Additive Solutions INX International Ink Ca. Koenia & Bauer Durst GmbH Kongsberg Precision Cutting Svstems Kongsberg Precision Cutting Svstems Kraetonics LLC Laauna Tools Laauna Tools LSINC Corooration Mennaiet

..

•.,

19 17 2 28 7

LSINC Mimaki USA Inc. Mutoh America Inc. Sinns365 Wibu-Svstems USA Inc.

I INFO# 142 127 111 152 153 103 154 143 112 128 104 113 129 155 144

Company

.

.

lsinc.com mimakiusa.com mutoh.com sinns365.com wibu.com/us

Mimaki USA Inc. Mimaki USA Inc. Mutoh America Inc. Nazdar Nikon SLM Solutions Roland DGA Corooration Roland DGA Cornoration Summa Summa Sun Automation Grouo Vision Engraving and Routing Svstems Wibu-Svstems USA Inc. Xaar □le.

Zund America Inc. Zund America Inc.

I INFO 130 156 157 145 105 146 158 114 131 132 133 106 147 115 134

J

June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine 21

Corrugated Package Printing Grows with Inkjet

by Melissa Donovan

dvancements in printhead technology continue to change the game in terms of how and when inkjet printing is used for corrugated packaging. T he newrugated plants money and time.

Past to Present In the past, inkjet was not able to provide the quality, reli­ ability, or speed that corrugated package printing required.

Today, we are well on our way with digital hardware meet­ ing analog technology in all three categories.

22 [ lndustfiaf Print Magazine J June 2025

According to Kristen Minlschmidt, product marketing manager, HP Inc., when digital printing entered into cor­ rugated production in the early 2010s with multi-pass ink­ jet technologies it enabled high print quality, but this was at the expense of production speed.

Nevertheless, the attraction of digital was there. "Early users of the technology were quick to migrate low-volume, high-value applications where even a limited production speed could generate returns," explains Minlschmidt.

Above: Xaar's Ultra High Viscosity Technology results in more vibrant and opaque prints.

industrialprintmagazine.com

Throughout the late 2010s, engineers worked hard to “significantly improve production speeds while retaining high quality by using single-pass inkjet. This improvement reduced production costs and allowed converters to economically produce higher volume orders. As the technology continues to rapidly advance, inkjet is now a transformative solution that’s swiftly changing the dynamics of box production,” admits Minlschmidt.

Jochen Sproll, strategy and business development manager, Koenig & Bauer Durst GmbH, agrees, stating that with the water-based inks and high-resolution printheads found in printers like Koenig & Bauer Durst’s Delta SPC 130, quality, reliability, and efficiency standards are met.

“Historically, inkjet printing faced challenges in meeting the quality, reliability, and speed demands of corrugated package printing. However, advancements over the past decade have significantly bridged this gap,” adds Bill Myers, marketing manager, Domino North America.

Neil Cook, business development manager, Xaar plc., believes “inkjet technology can meet and even surpass analog printing in many cases, providing the added benefits of digital flexibility, customization, and sustainability.”

Independent, peer-reviewed research from Swansea University’s Welsh Centre for Printing and Coating back up Cook’s statement. Its study validated the impact of Xaar’s Ultra High Viscosity Technology with its Aquinox printhead, which

can jet fluids of up to 1,000 centipoises at ambient temperature.

The study reported up to a 67 percent increase in color density on coated white corrugated substrates, achieving more vibrant prints without additional processing. The high-viscosity inks used also matched the intensity of conventional inks but required less volume, needing up to 50 percent less ink than standard viscosity inks on both primed and unprimed media. This translates into faster drying times and lower energy consumption.

Corrugated Board Challenges Corrugated board presents unique challenges, for example printhead nozzles may get blocked from dust. Luckily, inkjet manufacturers are eliminating or at least minimizing these issues.

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June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 23

1 First, we must understand how crucial it is that the printer is placed in a clean and controlled environment. “The clean room not only protects the print engine from corrugated dust, it also creates a stable environment related to temperature and humidity,” shares Chuck Slingerland, VP, Barberan Corrugated NA.

Automated cleaning and capping systems are key to preventing or minimizing printhead nozzle blockages from cardboard dust. The Domino X630i includes the i-Tech CleanCap, an automated cleaning and capping system that reduces maintenance needs and ensures consistent print quality.

Xaar’s TF Technology also ensures continuous ink recirculation, reducing nozzle blockages from cardboard dust and maintaining reliability in high-production environments.

“Dust, board warp, and inconsistent stacking are challenges,” lists Sproll.

Koenig & Bauer Durst addresses them with a forgiving feeder, preprint sheet cleaning, and tight control of board quality throughout production.

The physical nature of corrugated board is unwieldy and complicated. “Corrugated substrates vary in texture, thickness, and absorbency, which can directly impact print quality and consistency. Ink absorption into the substrate was always a challenge, leading to duller colors and increased ink usage,” explains Cook. Xaar’s Ultra High Viscosity Technology addresses this as the pigment in high-viscosity fluids sits on the surface rather than being lost to absorption, resulting in more vibrant and opaque prints.

Minlschmidt also suggests variability in board/paper thickness, warp, surface texture, and moisture content as challenges that can complicate achieving consistent ink application and image quality when printing to corrugated board.

HP technology is designed with these challenges in mind. Printhead designs, featuring improved nozzle protection and ink recirculation systems, minimize the impact of dust and ensure reliable ink delivery. Board handling capabilities and precise tension control accommodate a range of board/paper thicknesses and surface variations.

“In addition, cardboard is full of air and has uneven printing surfaces,” notes Philip Chu, product manager - UV printers, Roland DGA Corporation.

Printheads on the Case Printhead improvements advance inkjet in corrugated package printing.

Historically, first generation, singlepass printheads were limited, operating at 360 dpi with large droplet sizes in 1. HP printhead designs feature improved nozzle protection and ink recirculation systems. 2. Samples

from the Domino X630i digital aqueous inkjet corrugated press.

24

industrialprintmagazine.com

the range of 12 to 13 picoliters, according to Slingerland. “In contrast, second generation printhead technology offers significantly higher resolution and much finer droplet sizes, enabling sharper detail and more lithographiclike image reproduction.”

A printhead efficiently jetting fluids is a key component to inkjet reaching analog speeds, precision, and quality. “Xaar’s printhead technology enables the jetting of much higher viscosity fluids than ever before. This innovation redefines what’s possible for users, unlocking new opportunities in print, and setting a new standard for the industry,” explains Cook.

“Advanced piezoelectric printheads with recirculation ensure uptime, precision, and long-term stability—even in 24/7 operations. They’re key to minimizing

clogging and supporting high-speed, high-resolution printing,” says Sproll.

The newest iterations of HP Thermal Inkjet printheads offer high nozzle density, scalability, and reliability, which enable high-speed, high-resolution printing. HP’s latest generation industrial printhead technology on the PageWide T1195i and T700i Presses offer improved reliability that benefits system productivity and reduces operating costs all around.

Printheads and precision go hand in hand. “Advancements in printhead technology are pivotal for inkjet printing in corrugated packaging. The Domino X630i utilizes i-Tech StitchLink technology, which ensures precise alignment of printheads, delivering seamless and high-quality prints across the substrate.

This precision enhances image quality and reduces setup times,” states Myers.

Further Advancement Besides printheads, other components of the corrugated printing process advance inkjet.

Ink updates are one. “Water-based white ink—including Koenig & Bauer Durst digital water-based white for corrugated substrates in primary food packaging, as well as efficient drying systems and workflow automation are driving performance, flexibility, and sustainability,” says Sproll.

“The Domino AQ95 aqueous ink set enables printing on both coated and uncoated corrugated materials without the need for pretreatment, expanding application possibilities,” says Myers.

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June 2025 [ Industrial Print Magazine ] 25

support every stage of the digital print workflow," explains Minlschmidt.

Automation

3 Cook cites Nazdar's HighV Aqua Coro high-viscosity water-based ink, which minimizes absorption into the board to deliver superior color vibrancy and reduce overall ink usage. "Since less ink soaks into the substrate, graph­ ics printed in a single pass appear sig­ nificantly more striking compared to those using standard viscosity inks."

"These benefits are relevant for cor­ rugated packaging, where high-viscos­ ity inks enable a broader color gamut without the need for coating or primer, reducing costs and resource usage while improving efficiency. Additionally, by reducing water content in inks, dry­ ing energy requirements are lowered.

This makes the process more efficient and environmentally sustainable," con­ tinues Cook.

3. Koenig & Bauer Durst's Delta SPC 130 offers quality, reliability, and efficiency.

C O M PA N I E S M E N T I O N E D INFO# Company

Another important component is fluid management systems from companies like Megnajet. "These are also important for advancing inkjet for corrugated print­ ing by maintaining optimal ink conditions throughout long print runs, ensuring con­ sistency and reliability," says Cook.

Inspection systems help to elimi­ nate registration errors. Barberan S.A. employs its proprietary MasterVision camera inspection system which not only aligns printheads automatically, but also enables real-time monitoring of print quality to ensure consistent output, notes Slingerland.

Workflow plays a role. "HP One Package software is designed to le­ verage digital efficiency and flexibil­ ity, while effectively connecting an HP PageWide Press with existing factory systems. With the HP One Package software, converters have a wide choice of proven HP and partner solutions to

" 'fl____difii:11 See page 21 for more information.

Website

140

Barberan Corrugated NA

jetmasterseries.com

141

Domino North America

domino-orintina.com

142

HP Inc.

ho.com

143

Koenig & Bauer Durst GmbH

koeniq-bauer-durst.com

144

Megnajet

megnajet.com

145

Nazdar

nazdar.com

146

Roland DGA Corooration

rolanddaa.com

147

Xaar pie.

xaar.com

26 [ lndustfiaf Print Magazine J June 2025

Driving efficiency across the entire cor­ rugated production configuration is automation, whether it's on the back or front end of the process.

"To ensure a smooth transition to digital printing for corrugated produc­ tion, converters place a premium on preserving operational efficiency and minimizing costly disruptions to estab­ lished workflows. Automation emerges as a strong enabler of this goal, driving efficiency gains through streamlined processes, reducing manual interven­ tions, and improving consistency," notes Minlschmidt.

Automation is pivotal. ''Automation directly boosts efficiency and productiv­ ity. The corrugated industry isn't looking for gimmicks. Converters demand per­ formance, cost efficiency, and consistent quality. A smooth and reliable printing process is essential, but it's just one link in the packaging supply chain that helps brand owners attract attention and win over their consumers," shares Sproll. ''Automation in media handling and finishing streamlines production, reduces manual intervention, and en­ hances efficiency," adds Myers.

Chu agrees. "Increased automation as well as other front- and back-end im­ provements translate to increased speed and efficiency, which means faster turn­ around times. Proper material treatment and handling makes everything faster;'

Into Future Use Inkjet is changing how corrugated board is printed. Compared to a decade ago, speed and quality have matured consid­ erably thanks to advancements in print­ heads, inks, and automation components.

We discuss this topic in more detail in our upcoming webinar, taking place in June. Visit industrialprintmagazine.com to register today. 1PM

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