Durable, precisely applied colour on a variety of surfaces is a hallmark of UV printing.
What about the new printer accessories becoming available to users?
KJ: Manufacturers are developing printing accessories that are opening up new markets, such as attachments which allow printing on specific types of 3D objects. For example, rotary rack accessories are now available to enable printing on cylindrical objects. Users of benchtop UV printers love the ease of use and effectiveness of these devices, which has resulted in the expansion of these offerings to include models for 762-mm (30-in.) and 1,625.6-mm (64-in.) flatbeds.
These larger accessories are easy to use, and with the expanded format, users have the flexibility to either print one large product or multiple small products at once. They also allow users to add unique textures, gloss, and other enhancements, as well as vibrant cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK) graphics. These accessories are extremely versatile and robust, which makes them perfect for small businesses, print professionals, and even industrial manufacturers.
Additionally, there is another accessory which allows 360-degree printing on golf balls and other small balls. UV printer users continue to bring forward more creative ideas for applications, and manufacturers will continue to develop new and innovative accessories to help them achieve their goals.
What other innovations have you seen in the marketplace?
KJ: Manufacturers are also coming up with creative solutions to apply UV prints to objects with non-standard surfaces, such as rims or edges. For example, a print can be transferred directly to an irregularly shaped object or surface, such as the interior of a bowl or the surface of a rimmed plate. These graphic transfers are extremely durable and can withstand washing. They also allow users to employ all the same gloss and texture effects as they would with a direct-to-object UV printing application.
What do you see ahead for the UV printing market?
KJ: Continued evolution and continued innovation. Today’s roll-to-roll printers lay down high-quality prints faster than ever, and we anticipate speeds will continue to improve. We’ll also see further evolution in ink formulations, with additional colours such as fluorescents and metallics coming into use.
Additionally, the lower costs of today’s UV printers, coupled with a post-pandemic shift to local or in-house manufacturing, has led to an increase in the use of UV printing by industrial manufacturers and other non-core markets. In turn, printer manufacturers are creating insightful solutions such as individualized training and support programs.
Increasing demand for UV-printed products means manufacturers will continue to work to meet the needs of customers with advanced print technology, software, inks, and print accessories. Providing a range of printer sizes and ink configurations will further customize the user experience and enable users to satisfy a wider variety of print requirements. Finally, print manufacturers will continue to find new ways to support businesses that are incorporating UV printing, through online and in-person training.
Notes
1 For more information, visit https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/uv-led-printers-market.
Ginny Mumm is a freelance consultant for digital inkjet printer/cutter provider Roland DGA. For more information, visit www.rolanddga.com.
