Manufacturers are developing a range of accessories to enable fast and easy printing on 3D objects such as golf balls.
What are some of the main factors driving the demand for UV printing today?
KJ: The biggest driver for UV printing demand continues to be consumer trends towards personalization and customization. UV printing allows operators to print on almost any substrate. Though not every substrate or media is perfect for printing on, many pre-manufactured products can be customized to add value. Additionally, UV printers can produce one-offs, or a series of custom items, each with a different graphic. These on-demand orders, typically placed online or via retail walk-in, are produced in a smooth and efficient workflow.
The ability to customize and decorate on-demand, and in whatever quantity is needed, provides an incredible level of flexibility that makes digital UV printing an appealing and cost-effective solution for PSPs and their customers.
How have manufacturers responded to this demand? What are some of the recent innovations in print devices?
KJ: We’re seeing the introduction of UV devices with faster print speeds and better-quality output. Some roll-fed UV printers combine the benefits of high-definition image quality and increased productivity with the flexibility and convenience of integrated print and cut. Additionally, next-generation printers allow for a wider, more customizable ink gamut, and UV flatbeds are deeper and larger than ever, which means they can accommodate an even greater range of printable items.
Over the past four or five years, manufacturers have been filling in the gaps in printer sizes, offering a range of printers from desktop versions all the way up to high-productivity flatbeds, which can handle 1.2- x 2.4-m
(4- x 8-ft) media boards with edge-to-edge printing. Having more printer size options allows users to try out UV printing with smaller models, and, as their businesses grow, upgrade the size and speed of their devices as needed. We continue to see very strong sales of benchtop UV flatbed printers to clients in the small office/home office (SOHO) space.
How would you describe the advancements in UV inks over recent years?
UV inks can be applied to a wide variety of media and 3D objects, including leather, glass, vinyl, canvas, and wood.
KJ: Manufacturers have been able to advance UV inks in three different areas: developing an expanded colour gamut, for improved print quality and colour matching; providing an array of ink formulations designed for specific applications; and offering a variety of configurations for each user’s needs.
The expanded gamut of UV inks offers deep, rich colour options for standard UV printing. Different ink formulations also enable optimal production for certain applications. For instance, “shrink ink” is particularly well suited for labels and flexible packaging. Some inks are also Proposition 65 and Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) compliant, making them safer to use on products for children or pets, or in medical settings.
Configuration options have also expanded. For example, some UV flatbeds and printer/cutters are available with a variety of different ink configurations. This added flexibility allows users to configure their inks in the best way possible for their respective business needs and applications. Further, today’s UV inks are generally more durable, in the sense they offer improved adhesion and scratch resistance. This allows for a greater range of applications, as users can print on a vast array of substrates and products which endure a variety of environmental conditions.
