2023 Programme
IPI 2023 will feature 60+ technical presentations about the latest print technology for industrial applications. Major topic blocks include customised print systems, printhead design, ink and ink formulations, UV-LED curing and IR drying, big data management, automation and sustainability.
An additional conference track on 28/11/23 presents results of the international ACT-3D project. Over the last months project partners investigated the optimal combinations for printing of electronic circuits on three-dimensional plastic substrates. On 29/11/23, Alexander Watson Associates (AWA) chair special session dedicated to in-mould labels, in-mould decoration and in-mould electronics.
We will update this page on regular basis with confirmed titles, abstracts and speaker details.
09:00 | Conference introduction | ||
09:25 | KEYNOTE: Advanced printed electronics in mass production of printed security features There are now numerous areas of application in which printed and organic electronics are used. Its advantages, such as compactness, cost and energy efficiency even pave the way for it into the broad mass markets and open up undreamt-of technical and design possibilities for many industries. Although the core area of Witte Technology was (and still is) label and security printing, we decided early on to include printed electronics in our service portfolio. As a result, we quickly realised that there are interesting synergies between the different segments, particularly with regard to digital and printed security features. We offer flexible sensors, leakage detection, sensor elements, and smart labels. We mainly rely on R2R screen and flexo, as well as S2S screen printing in cleanroom conditions. | ||
09:50 | Fully screen-printed capacitive keyboard We will present fully screen-printed capacitive keyboards composed of four different ink layers: two layers of encapsulant inks, one of conductive ink and the final layer of thermoplastic glue. The capacitive keyboards is printed on a sacrificial substrate and then transferred onto the final support (fabric, leather, etc.) by using a printing press, tuned at a set pressure and temperature. The encapsulant ink, characterised by a high dielectric constant, allows that the contact of the operator’s finger on a specific area of the conductive circuit changes the electrical capacity of the system. The variation of the electric field is processed by an electronic controller in order to perform the desired functions. The keyboard is composed by a part that is fixed to the final support and by a part, a sort of an electric cable, that is self-standing and free to move, with a common crimped connector at its extremity. The fully screen-printed capacitive keyboard allows to meet all the customer requirements in terms of design and chemical and mechanical resistance. | ||
10:15 | UV LED curing in screen printing industrial applications UV LED curing has been well established in wide format digital applications; however, we are just starting to see the UV LED revolution and adoption into more complex industrial applications and a more comprehensive range of print technologies like screen printing. We will discuss the implementation process and the challenges associated with new application areas for UV LED curing. | ||
10:40 | Coffee break | ||
11:20 | UV LED inkjet process for the automotive industry Pollution and VOC emissions caused by overspray coating in the automotive industry are a challenge to combat. This study presents a method of printing personalised patterns on non-stick clear-coated (varnished) surfaces using only one UV LED ink to achieve good adhesion and a glossy surface. It includes three processes: surface pre-treatment, an undercoat and a topcoat by varying the parameters of the printer and the UV LED. First, the pre-treatment involves activating the polyurethane coating with the UV LED. Second, a strong adhesion between the undercoat and the topcoat can be achieved by jetting small droplets. Third, a smooth and glossy surface can be achieved with delayed polymerisation. The experimental results of the adhesion test meet the requirements of the industrial application. Moreover, the process is easy to set up, with zero VOC emissions and low energy consumption. | ||
11:45 | Customisation of inkjet inks and systems: A collaborative approach Inkjet printing technologies are getting more advanced, which opens new applications. Often these applications are getting more complex and various factors influence the quality of the final print result. When ink manufacturers and integrators work together these challenges can be solved in the best way for the final customer. In this presentation, IdeeGo and Siegwerk will explain the key success factors for a collaborative approach on customized inkjet inks and systems. | ||
12:10 | Industrial inkjet in manufacturing: Printing onto difficult plastics with UV inks Plastics such as polyethylene and polypropylene have a low surface energy and show low affinity for good wetting and adhesion. Plastics are increasingly made of mixed recycled materials, offering different surface qualities. General recommendation is to use a physical pre-treatment (flame or plasma), to optimize homogeneity and adhesion of the ink layer. Optimising the adhesion functionality poses a major challenge, especially with inkjet printing inks. Usually the use of primers offers an optimized surface and thus better adhesion. However, this makes the print process more complex, less controllable, slower and more expensive. With the UVAJET D80i industrial digital ink, Zeller+Gmelin has succeeded in avoiding the need for primers. It is now possible to print efficiently onto plastics for industrial applications without primers, even at higher ink laydown. The UV ink for industrial print heads is DualCure, for both classic UV mercury and UV LED curing. | ||
12:35 | Direct to shape printing with NC generated trajectories Polytype is one of the pioneering companies in digital direct-to-shape (DTS) decoration on an industrial scale. Often direct-to-shape projects are considered to be overly challenging or risky. In this presentation we will share some insights how complex curved parts can be printed by using state-of-art NC software as known from other manufacturing industries. We will also provide some technical and economic background related to DTS applications. | ||
13:00 | Lunch break | ||
14:30 | Ultrasharp drop visualisation for ink development and printer optimisation The DropWatcher is a key instrument for the development of waveforms for inkjet inks. In this presentation we will explore the DropWatcher’s potential use for the development and characterisation of inkjet inks. Meteor’s DropWatcher UltraSharp optics reveal the jetting and drop formation processes in inkjet systems with an extraordinary detail. We will explore how we can take advantage of this feature to characterise and compare the performance of different ink formulations in terms of satellite formation and jet-to-drop in-flight transition. Individual satellite drops can be identified, measured and quantified; and a direct comparison between two ink formulations in terms of rate and size of satellites formation is possible. Ink satellites are an important source of print defects and jetting instability, and even very small satellites can be assumed to contribute to these issues. We hope that the addition of an ultrasharp DropWatching measuring mode to identify and quantify satellited droplets will help in reducing the negative effects of satellite drops in image quality and jetting stability. | ||
14:55 | Big data for inkjet printing optimisation Optimising printing parameters for novel inkjet applications relies on time-consuming iterations by rare specialists, with results entirely dependent on their expertise. Droptimize develops a more robust and reproducible workflow based on the fusion of conventional drop watching with big data software. This unique combination allows to automatically test hundreds of sets of printing parameters, store the resulting drop characteristics in a database, and finally compare them to identify optimums and instabilities. Having full control of the software enables iterations not only over the waveforms, but also over the temperatures, flowrates, and any other relevant parameters. We believe this unique approach is a first step toward the standardisation of inkjet parameter tuning and could lead the way to fully automatized optimisations in the future. | ||
15:20 | The power of image inspection and machine learning This presentation delves into the synergistic potential of image inspection techniques and machine learning to revolutionise inkjet printing quality and digital printer performance. The interplay between image and sensor analysis and machine learning is explored as a dynamic solution for identifying and rectifying print defects and optimising overall system performance. This approach will empower inkjet printers to detect anomalies and optimise print outcomes. The approach combines integration of image acquisition, feature extraction, and model training – culminating in a framework for real-time print quality enhancement. The presentation underscores the impact that image inspection and machine learning can have to inkjet printing applications. | ||
15:45 | Coffee break | ||
16:25 | Accelerating the transition from inkjet R&D to production In this session, ImageXpert will discuss new technologies for evaluating and optimising the inkjet process in R&D and production. These tools allow you to build a better understanding of your inkjet process, improve the performance, and accelerate the rate of development. We will explore the latest analysis tools, from new dropwatching technologies to smarter prototyping printers. | ||
16:50 | Additive, digital processes in electronics manufacturing The production of electronic devices is a wasteful undertaking. Notion Systems has shown with a large and diverse installed base in various industries, that additive processes, in particular functional inkjet printing, already have a positive impact toward production efficiency. Inkjet is used to reduce waste and process steps to make the production of current electronic products more efficient and sustainable. In this presentation we will provide insight into the aspects that drive sustainability in electronics production and will discuss application examples. | ||
17:15 | Impact of Digital Front-End selection for industrial inkjet solutions The selection of Digital Front-End (DFE) systems is critical to success in industrial inkjet solutions. What people think they want, is different from what they really need. This presentation explores the most important questions of DFE selection on the industrial printing landscape, encompassing technological advancements, cost optimisation, customisation capabilities, workflow integration, and future-proofing strategies. It highlights the latest innovations in DFE technology, emphasising their capacity to enhance print quality and productivity. Additionally, it underscores how strategic DFE selection can lead to substantial cost savings through efficient workflows and reduced material wastage, while also addressing the demand for personalised printing solutions. The presentation offers practical insights for stakeholders, providing a holistic understanding of how the DFE selection influence success in the ever-evolving inkjet solutions sector. | ||
18:30-20:30 | Networking reception |
09:25 | KEYNOTE: Digital and screen printing in Human-Machine Interface production Functional and decorative products for global customers in the electronics, automotive and industrial sectors are one of the core areas of CCL Design, a leading manufacturer in this field. The presentation will focus on the current state of the art and future development opportunities of digital printing and screen printing technology in HMI production. After a brief introduction to the history and technology, an in-depth look at the technical aspects of the applications will be given. In addition, the possibilities of digital and screen printing technology will be highlighted and the differences that make the combination of both processes so appealing. Case studies of current products and concepts from CCL Design will give an insight into existing applications and soon-to-be-released concepts. Although HMIs already have a decades-long history, e.g. in the automotive sector, this technology proves its utility, functionality and gains in product quality in daily use. | ||
09:50 | A comprehensive approach to ink development for complex industrial inkjet projects Ink development for industrial inkjet projects presents challenges that must consider unique and demanding application needs, ink interactions with the print system and pre- and post-processes. This presentation asks whether relying solely on a formulation approach is enough to deliver the optimum ink solution. It explores how a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to the ink development can deliver a robust ink solution in the most efficient way, supported by practical examples. | ||
10:15 | Integrating inkjet into your production process: Think INK first Inkjet printing is becoming popular to use for industrial applications, whereby the printing becomes part of the product. The printing step needs to fit within the total manufacturing flow to deliver the end-quality of the product. Inkjet consumables (inks, primers, varnishes) need to be developed in function of the printing unit as well as the application. The world of decorative printing is full of examples whereby inkjet printing is being used successfully to bring value to the industry and the consumers. Several specific cases of decorative printing will be explained in detail. This includes describing the product, the manufacturing flow, the inkjet printing solution, combined with the design of the inkjet fluids to deliver the product quality in all its aspects. | ||
10:40 | Coffee break | ||
11:20 | Inkjet printhead design for industrial applications Shear-mode piezoelectric printheads offer low drive voltages and long lifetime with excellent electromechanical coupling efficiency, allowing for reliable industrial applications in various fields. One key attribute of the shear-mode printheads is their capability to produce fine-tuned droplet size for each individual nozzle to enhance overall gradation and uniformity. Furthermore, the printheads cater to a wide range of jetting viscosity, suggesting a much broader viscosity compatibility when coupling with recirculated ink heating. For high-speed multi-drop operation, we present the features of the printhead adapted for achieving jetting stability at high frequencies. | ||
11:45 | Modular integration from printhead to systems Kyocera has been expanding application field of inkjet technology by offering high performance printhead KJ4 Series. Furthermore, the latest platform KJ4EX Series has raised the standard of productivity of inkjet equipment by the enhanced stability and throughput. After four years from the first introduction of the 600dpi model, 1200dpi is finally added to its line-ups. Design features of this new model is to be discussed. A high resolution printhead is suitable for high-definition printing naturally. But it requires deep technical understanding to maximise its benefit. So, Kyocera Nixka Inkjet Systems S.A.S. has been established to spread the value of the technology for more variety of layers in the industrial printing market by offering print engine products Genix, Lenix and derived printing systems using KJ4EX Series. Technical outline of these products are to be introduced with the design philosophy. | ||
12:10 | Digital textile printing: Preparing for new markets Digital printing is increasingly finding its way into new application areas. Not only for the sake of the environment, advantages are apparent in many respects. The switch to digital printing also speaks for itself in terms of the environment and working conditions for employees in this industry, and with regard to ever smaller batch sizes, one becomes more adaptable and flexible. Whether we are talking about printing on corrugated cardboard, textiles, glass, metal or building materials, decor printing or additive manufacturing, printheads have to respond to the individual requirements of each of the sectors. We will address all of these aspects in his presentation and show how Seiko Instruments have adapted to these new, challenging but at the same time extremely exciting sectors. | ||
12:35 | Advances in inkjet printheads and testing to get the most from your investment As new opportunities continue to grow for inkjet printheads and the pressure increases on their performance, testing capabilities need to also grow and support. In this presentation Ricoh will share how it is pushing the boundaries of inkjet with its thin film printhead and introduce a new advanced test process used to help qualify the ever increasing demands. The test process delivers empirical data, helping customers select the most cost-effective solution and get the most out of their printhead for the chosen application. | ||
13:00 | Lunch break | ||
14:30 | Smooth flow is key: Diaphragm pumps and their journey to low pulsation While diaphragm pumps are well established and offer many benefits for printing systems, pulsation has still been a hurdle for ink transfer. This presentation shows the journey towards new technologies for liquid diaphragm pumps and how they help reduce costs and integration efforts thanks to their remarkably low pulsation. But the road does not end there, as these smooth flow solutions open up new possibilities for intelligent functions that simplify integration even further and allow the pumps to communicate with your system. | ||
14:55 | Jetting functional fluids: Up-scaling from laboratory to industrial production Implementing an inkjet solution to industrial processes can create incredible advantages, as well as open up new opportunities for manufacturing. However, scaling up a solution from a proven laboratory method to a mass-manufacturing environment is surprisingly difficult. In our presentation, we will give a breakdown of some of the challenges that need to be overcome in order to achieve this successfully. Some key aspects covered are: motion system, drop placement, jetting speed and drop size, jetting distance, multiple printhead arrays, printhead alignment, ink supply, curing and drying. | ||
15:20 | World of infrared: Exploring diversity and differences Water-based inkjet applications are becoming ubiquitous. This presentation covers the full range of applicable infrared wavelengths, their applications, differences, and likelihood of success in achieving your goals. Heraeus Noblelight will discuss how to measure and evaluate processes in drying, such as finding the optimal process window between emitting light sources, material absorption, and chemical composition, all leading to our target... effective drying. | ||
15:45 | Coffee break | ||
16:25 | Modular and scalable printhead design based on MEMS technology for a wide range of industrial applications The heart of Epson’s new PrecisionCore printhead technology is a thin print chip manufactured by advanced microelectro-mechanical system (MEMS) microfabrication processes. Every print chip consists of a piezoelectric print actuator, microchannels guiding the ink and up to 800 densely packed nozzles with a nozzle pitch of about 42.3 µm. With a thickness of 1 µm, the piezoelectric actuator on the print chip is the driving force of the printhead when a voltage signal (waveform) is applied. The print chip itself is extremely modular and can be arrayed in various printhead designs enabling applications ranging from compact, cost-efficient desktop printers to large-scale, industrial production systems. Epson’s goal is to bring this same technology to address new applications such as direct-to-shape printing and the deposition of functional fluids, e.g. for electronic or biological applications. | ||
16:50 | Leveraging printheads and UV-LED for 2.5D relief on glass and other industrial applications Inkjet printing for manufacturing using piezo printheads relies on a combination of ink head optimisation through the combination of ink chemistry and waveform and the understanding of the process variables that can subsequently be used to control the output. Using print-to-shape onto glass as a working example we start our discussion by describing the challenges of waveform development across different printhead offerings. We then expand the topic into the area of process control by describing how the tunability of UV-LED has provided a valuable tool for introducing control into inkjet application using UV-cured inks. By combining droplet size selection and curing energy we look at the critical dependence on these variables to influence the ability to build 2.5D structures without the polarisation step often used in 3D scanning machines. | ||
17:15 | New printhead designs and ink delivery system for industrial inkjet printing The talk will discuss the importance of ink recirculation and look at a range of new printhead designs. Other aspects such as ease of integration and improved sensing and monitoring capability will also be discussed. Following this, different approaches to ink delivery system design will be summarised. Finally, a range of typical integration configurations of printhead and ink delivery system enabling printing for different applications with a new ink delivery system will be presented. | ||
18:30-20:30 | Networking reception |
09:50 | Towards full roll-to-roll printing of electronics The world demands smart products with new functionalities and seamless user experiences. However, today’s electronics are the limiting factor for real innovation – they do not allow much form-factor freedom, nor are they sustainable. Printed electronics is a true game-changer which offers form, functionality and desirable user experience, with the added benefit of being sustainable. Roll-to-roll manufacturing of printed electronics is of particular importance, since it enables products that are hitherto not possible, or possible with many limitations. In this talk, the significance, possibilities and challenges of full roll-to-roll manufacturing of printed electronics will be discussed, with concrete application examples. | ||
10:15 | Functionalisation of 3D mechanical components with thin-film printed sensors/actuators using robot assisted inkjet technology Inkjet is an extremely versatile technology, with smart adaptabilities for accurately depositing thin-films which possess electronic functionalities. It contributes to printed electronics (PE) development, on planar and 3D-surfaces. Deposition of these PE thin-films on 3D-surfaces is sophisticated, demands high-precision printing, pre- and post-treatment tools, along with suitable integration strategies, coupled with 6-axis robot. Here, we want to demonstrate realisation of PE applications, focusing on functionalised 3D-mechanical-components (3D-MC) e.g. grippers equipped with PE sensor/actuator, that could be implemented and utilised directly within a production line where the goal is to obtain high degree of variability or addressability. Depositing PE layers on 3D-MC is highly complex, relating directly to 3D-MC’s geometrical surface complexity and robot’s addressability to execute those process-step routines, and hence, the conformability of thin-films to demonstrate necessary sensor/actuator response. Equipment, deposition set-up, integration concepts, process methodology and realisation steps, along with challenges, are shown for achieving thin-film functional sensors/actuators on 3D-MC, for measuring gripping force and inhibiting heating. | ||
10:40 | Coffee break | ||
11:20 | nanoInk: From decorative to functional printing The inks of tomorrow will not only have decorative, but also functional and active properties, e.g. electrical and thermal conductivity or shielding and sensing functions. This becomes possible by the growing technical progress and large-scale availability of nanotechnologies, enabling new innovative products, e.g. in the field of printed electronics. Yet, the development and formulation of such inks remains a complex task and requires a thorough understanding of the relationships between the individual parameters (including printhead, ink and substrate). Further, looking at the ink components alone is not enough to develop a well-thought-out and sustainable print product. Rather, the entire value chain, including process technologies, analytics, recycling, as well as regulatory and safety issues must be considered. To this end, the network nanoInk has brought together interdisciplinary experts from the fields of raw materials, ink formulations, printing processes, and analytics. Jointly the partners realise new high-performance applications and products from decorative to functional, as well as new process technologies and analysis tools for the formulation and characterisation of inks and coatings. nanoInk currently has 14 members and offers companies and research institutions alike a platform for the exchange of technical information, targeted cooperation and the implementation of innovative products and applications. | ||
11:45 | Navigating new frontiers in high viscous inkjet printing for expanded material applications In recent years, printhead technologies have evolved considerably. New printhead manufacturers such as Quantica, but also established manufacturers, are constantly expanding their printhead portfolio – pushing the limits of inkjet. As a result, the range of materials that can be processed is constantly increasing. However, systematically opening up new fields of application with these technological developments also brings new challenges. This starts with the need for extended material characterisation, the adaptation of printing process strategies and extends to the printed product. Using practical examples in the field of 3D-printed electronics and high viscous inkjet printing of dental resins in the dental sector, we will take a closer look at these challenges for materials and processes. | ||
12:10 | Multifunctional fully-printed piezoelectric devices Recent breakthroughs in material science and manufacturing methods have opened new avenues for creating piezoelectric materials using printing technologies, enabling their application as versatile sensors, actuators, and generators. These adaptable devices play a pivotal role in developing advanced robotic skin and flexible medical tools. The spotlight is on printed solutions due to their lightweight nature, pliability, and suitability for high-throughput manufacturing. This revolutionary approach offers significant advantages in integration and a multitude of possibilities for cost-effective industrial applications. This review delves into distinct system parameters, identifying influential factors affecting the production of dependable flexible printed piezoelectric devices. Notably, emphasis lies on screen printing as fabrication method and the established piezoelectric polymer, poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene). Ultimately, we explore the incorporation of these techniques into supple, stretchable substrates via printing, shedding light on manufacturing trends for economical production of pliable piezoelectric devices for electronic skin and smart wearables. | ||
12:35 | High-performance water-based inkjet inks for sustainable printing solution Printing inks have an environmental impact that can be reduced by using eco-friendly inks. Kao established new standards for formulating eco-friendly inkjet inks through research and development on sustainable printing technology. From a cradle-to-grave perspective, inks can have a potential impact at different points in their lifecycle. Kao has different solutions not only in terms of inks, but also in terms of primers and new eco-recycling innovations for printing on plastic substrates. The aim of this presentation is to explain from a technical perspective what the drawbacks of water-based inkjet inks are in terms of sustainability, such as drying power consumption and others, and how Kao is overcoming these challenges using its proprietary technology combined with our latest innovation in terms of recyclability. | ||
13:00 | Lunch break |
14:30 | ACT-3D: Screen printing and thermoforming results Smartization of existing or new products is a trend that is linked to Industry 4.0 and Internet-of-Things. There are several ways to integrate electronics into or onto 3D products. The combination of printed electronics for circuit layers and the assembly of rigid electronic components onto those circuit layers is one of the solutions that is getting a lot of attention nowadays. However, hybrid electronics (as the combination of both printed and rigid electronics) or structural electronics (as products aim to be 3D), needs adapted materials and processes to achieve functional conductive traces and interconnects. In this presentation we present the process of screen printing of conductive Ag-based inks on different 2D foils and the subsequent thermoforming of the same to achieve 3D circuit layers on which, afterwards, rigid electronics can be placed via the use of pick-and-place and conductive adhesives. Besides the description of the process, the different foils and different inks are discussed in this work and the properties of their combination for functional 3D products is discussed. | ||
14:55 | ACT-3D: Laser coating results MID is a powerful technology for 3D integration of mechatronic systems, such as sensors, actuators or form-adapted radio systems. Most of these systems are manufactured by the injection moulding process in their millions. This usually prevents the production of small lot sizes or individual components. Additive manufacturing technologies can overcome these limitations, as the components can be produced directly and without moulds. This also allows the economic production of individual parts. However, the choice of MID-compatible materials for 3D printing is limited. A disadvantage of these MID-compatible materials is that they do not have the mechanical properties that are required for the application. MID lacquer is an excellent link for these challenges. The mechanical properties can be achieved with the previously specified or approved materials. The functionalisation by means of MID technology is realised by a thin coating of MID lacquer and has no appreciable influence on the stability of the construction. Another advantage is that even existing components can be retrofitted with this coating without having to manufacture or modify them from scratch. | ||
15:20 | ACT-3D: Connection technology results The presentation will show different processes and characterisation results of connection technologies on 3D-capable substrate technologies as part of the CORNET Act3D project. Soldering, gluing with isotropic conductive adhesive (ICA), sintering and wire bonding were investigated. The focus will be on shear testing of SMD-components and on investigations of the mounting angle of SMD on 3D substrates. Furthermore, the presentation will show some options to combine different technologies by hybrid approaches. | ||
15:45 | Coffee break | ||
16:25 | ACT-3D: Enabling challenging electronics and photonics applications with 3D ceramic circuits Ceramic materials have long been used in the electronics industry in various applications ranging from automotive, power electronics, medical, semiconductors, and many more due to their unique properties, including high thermal conductivity, chemical resistance, and mechanical stability. However, traditional ceramic circuits are typically two-dimensional (2D), which limits their flexibility and performance. In this presentation, we will discuss the benefits of 3D ceramic circuits and provide several examples of how they are being used to improve the performance, reliability, and integration of (micro)electronic and photonic devices. We will go over several use cases to show that advantages can range beyond the electronic circuit itself. | ||
16:50 | Demonstrators from the ACT-3D project and an open discussion on the future of structural (in-mold) electronics Tba |
18:30-20:30 | Networking reception |
09:00 | KEYNOTE: The EU Green Deal & Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability: Predicting the impact on the industrial printing sector The EU Green Deal, including the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability ‘Towards a Toxic-free Environment’ was first announced more than three years ago, in the early days of the current European Parliament. As the term of this Parliament draws to a close, the authorities are now in the process of presenting their formal proposals for the new legislation, and industry can more clearly appreciate the potential impacts, both direct and indirect. Apart from significant revisions of the two core pillars of our chemicals legislation (REACH and CLP), several other initiatives are being pursued which are likely to bring changes to how the European printing ink industry functions. This presentation will provide a brief overview of the status of these future regulations, as well as try to predict the impact of these on how our industry formulates and uses inks, as well as considering the role that inks can play in realising the objectives of the Green Deal. | ||
09:25 | The role of biobased components in navigating sustainability demands The need to define and develop the sustainability profile of digital inks is increasing due to both consumer market and regulatory pressure. The importance and impact of utilising biobased components from natural, renewable sources in meeting the sustainability demands of markets and the EU will be discussed. The role of the supplier in establishing full sustainability documentation for their products’ contributions to climate, SHE and microplastic footprints is examined. Examples of the type of sustainability documentation that suppliers can provide to help their downstream users are given, and the extent of background work necessary to produce and maintain sustainability documentation will be outlined. | ||
09:50 | Reduce, reuse, recycle: How UV LED container inks make printing more sustainable The presentation will show how inks can reduce the environmental impact of printing waste, enable container reuse and improve the recyclability of glass. It explains the benefits of UV LED technology for container printing, such as lower energy consumption and longer lamp life. It also presents application examples of direct UV LED container inks in different industries such as cosmetics, food and beverage. The presentation concludes with a summary of key findings and recommendations for the future of sustainable container printing. | ||
10:15 | Sustainability, energy cost reduction and productivity increase with UV LED curing Sustainability in view of climate change has gained top priority, not only for the environment and mankind, but also for brand owners, who are now all having sustainability programmes established, committing their print product suppliers to more environmentally-friendly and resource-saving production processes. Additionally, not only since last year’s geopolitical disruptions, energy cost went through the roof, putting high pressure on profitability and margins in print production. Optimised use of existing production resources is also a main factor to meet the goal of saving energy, emissions and cost. Traditional thermal and mercury arc lamp UV curing have fallen out of time. UV LED curing as the most efficient curing technology available today, is a powerful contributor on hand to address these issues. UV LED curing does not only reduce energy consumption and emissions substantially, it also increases productivity and print equipment uptime to keep cost under control, and to increase tight profit margins. | ||
10:40 | Coffee break | ||
11:20 | Driving (inkjet) inks towards sustainability and circularity using nature’s building blocks Developing (inkjet) inks from scratch is often not an easy feet. Over the years, ChemStream has been developing and improving in-house methods for designing and formulating (inkjet) inks and its components such as dispersing agents, binders etc. Using this know-how, ChemStream is incorporating sustainable and circular solutions into both water-based and UV-curable inkjet inks, through the design and synthesis of new polymeric dispersing agents (with an extra focus on bio-based building blocks). These allow for an improvement on dispersion/ink sustainability as well as an increase in flexibility for ink formulation. In this lecture, we will shed some light on the development and implication of this know-how and how it benefits ink quality and performance. | ||
11:45 | Sustainability to the point. OEKO-TEX standards for input, process, and output control What goes in, must come out. Chemicals and dyes used in the production of textiles and leather are not typically food grade quality, nor do they have pharmaceutical purity. Impurities and harmful substances found in textiles, leather, foams, adhesives, prints, metal items and other components of apparel, footwear, and home goods can have a negative impact on worker and consumer health. If chemicals used in production do not remain in or on the product, they are released into the environment during manufacturing or consumer use. Either result can harm humans and ecosystems. Being an ink development and manufacturing company, working with test institutes in order to certify our water-based pigment inks as “green” and safe for use in textile production pushes us to develop better and cleaner products while using the best possible raw materials. | ||
12:10 | Shining a light on sustainable printing: The power of infrared drying The presentation will first cover the topic of infrared radiation, including its various wavelengths, differences, and modes of operation. It then focuses on the specific area of shortwave infrared radiation, also known as NIR. Its high-energy mode of operation makes it highly effective in the printing industry, outperforming conventional hot air-drying methods. NIR radiation has the ability to penetrate ink, resulting in faster drying times and improved product quality. Using a recent practical case study, the audience will learn how to optimise energy efficiency and production speed on a printing press. Electrically powered NIR-infrared systems offer the opportunity for the use of renewable energy sources, which can help to reduce the dependency on fossil fuels and to lower the emission of CO2. By implementing these systems, companies can make significant strides toward meeting their environmental goals while improving their bottom line. | ||
12:35 | UV LED measurement for print applications: Why, how and what do I measure? The use of UV LEDs for industrial print applications continues to increase. In many print applications, UV LEDs are a printer’s interaction with a UV source. LEDs are a stable, high power, long lasting and dependable source. If UV LEDs are stable, then: Why should I measure the UV output from a LED?; How do I measure UV LEDs?; What would I do (besides panic) if my print process stopped curing tomorrow? This presentation will address the “why”, “how” and “what” of measurement including key terms, radiometer basics and the differences between measurement of an UV LED and mercury source. It will cover process variables in print applications, tracking and communication of data and instrument selection, use and care. UV LED measurement and process control is an important part of your success that contributes to your bottom-line success. | ||
13:00 | Lunch break | ||
14:30 | NIR hybrid drying technology: Effective energy input in the circulation process The market for drying systems will change in the coming years. Energy and emissions are key drivers. Analogue drying systems, as they are currently still used in many printing applications, will have to disappear. The answer is digital drying technology – and the very flexible and targeted use of hybrid elements. By selectively combining NIR and IR with air, hybrid drying technology works for a variety of surfaces and with more functionalities. For the digital printing process, correct cross-linking of the prints is required after drying. This process can be done in one step with hybrid dryer systems. | ||
14:55 | UVC-LED update and influence on UV curing During the last years some completely new branches of UV curing technology have found their way in the adhesive, printing and coating industry. As an alternative to conventional UV curing through medium pressure lamps we can now make use of UV-LEDs. Long wavelengths of UVA-LEDs have already found their place in many curing applications. But long wavelengths also show disadvantages, like insufficient surface curing. UVC-LEDs may help to solve this issue, as short UV-irradiation is known as surface active and helps to improve crosslinking densities on the surface of the coating, ink or adhesive. Thanks to increasing power and efficiency, UVC-LEDs have now become more interesting for UV-curing applications. This paper will give an overview of the state-of-the-art of UVC-LEDs and possible use for UV-curing applications. | ||
15:20 | Thermal laser processes for printed electronics Diode lasers are by far the most efficient method of applying thermal energy to NIR absorbing materials. Fortunately, most conductive inks absorb the 940 nm of the Hamamatsu cw SPOLD laser, allowing a homogeneous and fast sintering result comparable to current thermal post-processing methods. In addition, the laser is versatile for other processes relevant to the printed electronics market, such as laser soldering or encapsulation. The use of line beam optics favours scalable, yet supremely sustainable high volume production, for example in R2R machines or ITO touch display manufacturing. |
09:00 | KEYNOTE: Scalable manufacturing process of perovskite solar cells by inkjet printing Perovskite solar cells hold immense promise in the renewable energy sector, offering high efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Nonetheless, the journey towards commercialisation has been riddled with hurdles, with one of the primary challenges being the transition from laboratory-scale coating processes to large-scale production. Addressing this challenge head-on, Saule Technologies has emerged as a pioneering company specialising in the production of perovskite solar cells using inkjet printing technology on thin, flexible substrates at low temperatures. In this presentation, we will delve into the exciting possibilities of upscaling perovskite solar cell technology through inkjet printing. Leveraging our extensive industrial experience, we will shed light on both the advantages and disadvantages of employing inkjet printing in the research and production of thin film solar cells, offering valuable insights into the path ahead. | ||
09:25 | Plasma treatment for perfect printing Printing on polymers, but also on glass and metals, can be very challenging in regards of achieving good adhesion of the print, as well as good wettability of the inks on the surface for perfect readability and brilliance. We will explore the difference between corona and plasma treatment, and adhesion mechanism involved in good adhesion. We will discuss how plasma treatment improves adhesion and wettability, especially in terms of de-wetting and pinholing behaviour and how to get the best treatment results when using plasma treatment, especially on polymers. Furthermore, we will explore the cleaning properties of plasma treatment and how plasma technology can be implemented and successfully used in production. | ||
09:50 | Aqueous printheads and inkjet ink: Resolving development hurdles Developing an aqueous printhead presents significant challenges, particularly concerning material compatibility tests and the shelf life of bulk piezo printheads. The rapid diffusion of ink into the printhead channels through barrier layers exposes critical components like insulated electrodes, wire bonding, and electronics, leading to performance deterioration, nozzle plate delamination, and printhead failure. Water’s presence introduces its unique bulk and dynamic properties, such as speed of sound and dynamic surface tension, impacting fluid interaction within the printhead micro-channels during waveform actuation. This poses further challenges during ink formulation and jetting reliability. We will explore (i) challenges related to prolonging the shelf life of aqueous printheads and the key features adopted to mitigate ink diffusion and component exposure, and (ii) optimisation of aqueous inks for reliable jetting using advance ink fluid map characterisation procedures. Understanding how these dynamic ink properties influence the process will aid in formulating and fine-tuning dependable inkjet inks and expedite waveform development, ultimately enhancing overall printing performance. | ||
10:15 | Optimising ink stability: How to mix the perfect ink formulation The stability of any ink formulation is important to ensure consistent quality during storage, transport, and the printing process. Inks can be classified as liquid dispersions, consisting of a main liquid phase, in which particles are dissolved. The stability of liquid dispersions describes how long a dispersion retains its original properties, such as particle size and particle distribution, under given storage conditions. To analyse liquid dispersions quantitatively and in their original concentrations, DataPhysics Instruments present the MultiScan MS 20 Dispersion Stability Analysis System. Smallest changes in particle size and particle distribution can be analysed with its optical stability measurement method, even in opaque mixtures and at temperatures between -10 °C and 80 °C. To validate the application of the MultiScan MS 20 in the printing industry, we will present a comparison of sample inks using different stabilisers and show how to contrast the destabilisation rates of both samples. | ||
10:40 | Coffee break | ||
11:20 | Particle sizing with DLS and SPOS – valuable tools for ink characterisation In order to optimise the grinding process in ink manufacturing, particle size information is crucial. Whereas Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), based on Brownian motion reveils the center of ink particle size distributions which is typical in the 200-400 nm region, the Single Particle Optical Sizing (SPOS) technique measures precisely any particle above 0.5 µm. Especially ink quality control relies on SPOS in order to identify unwanted oversized particles that might block the nozzle in inkjet printers causing high replacement cost. Typical measurement results will be presented. | ||
11:45 | How to optimise particle suspensions using Hansen solubility parameters Formulating stable particle suspensions is of great interest to the ink industry as it allows them to enhance the properties and the lifetime of their products. Overall, the choice of the stabilisation medium is the key factor to avoid particle agglomeration before adding additives (surfactants, polymers etc.) which are, most of the time, quite expensive. Hansen’s approach can be adapted to describe the particle stability in various solvents by using three different parameters δD, δP, and δH which are representative of the interactions between the particle and the dispersion media. | ||
12:10 | Integrating inkjet chemistry into digital printing solutions for metal applications Digital printing with inkjet technology has many advantages over analogue printing but also has some disadvantages and often some technical challenges. Thus, inkjet has already found success in many areas of print, such as ceramic tiles, sign and graphics, décor and labels, yet some other sectors of print are yet to receive a workable digital solution. Printing of metal packaging is one of these sectors in which digital print has yet to find much success. This presentation and discussion looks at how collaboration between Sacmi and Sun Chemical has not only created a viable solution for metal packaging but also unlocked and created a completely new industrial opportunity for digital printing. | ||
12:35 | UV-LED: Applications and pitfalls Users love the idea of saving energy by using LEDs instead of UV arc lamps and optimising downtimes by eliminating the need to change lamps regularly (and other wearing parts). For all new applications that use UV for the first time, this may be possible without further restrictions. But what does this mean for users who have already invested in a UV system based on UV arc lamps and now want to convert? Here, in addition to ecological (no mercury) and economic (energy savings on the one hand, possibly higher expenses for the paint/varnish systems on the other hand) considerations, it is also important to have the technology under control. The (electronic/conventional) ballast has to be replaced, the inks/pigments/ varnishes have to be matched to the LED wavelengths and, finally, the legal regulations have to be observed. “LED colours” are not yet approved in all cases. Here it makes sense to have a rescue parachute, i.e. not to carry out a final change from UV arc lamp to UV LED, but to rely on a variable “insert/changeover” system which then allows a quick change from UV arc lamp to UV LED and back. Special electronic ballasts that can control both UV arc lamps and UV LEDs, as well as interface cards that work between the existing controls and the UV sources, provide a remedy here. | ||
13:00 | Lunch break | ||
14:30 | White pigment concentrate for digital ink with focus on a wide range of water-based applications When raw material specialists work together, the end customer will profit from increased benefits with focus on DTG & DTF textile and packaging applications. Based on market requirements and customer needs KRONOS and Covestro/Lamberti teamed up to test the compatibility and stability performance of different binder systems in combination with a novel aqueous white pigment dispersion “KRONOS 9900 – Digital White” for white digital inks. This presentation also shows the success story of optimised white water-based inkjet ink formulations to achieve excellent properties such as high opacity and brightness, best-in-class storage stability as well as printability. | ||
14:55 | Bio and non-CMR material applied in the digital ink In the realm of modern printing technologies, the choice of inks plays a pivotal role in determining the quality, sustainability, and safety of printed materials. This study presents a comprehensive abstract about the two prominent categories of inks: bio-inks and non-CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic) inks. Bio-inks, derived from renewable resources, offer a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based inks. They exhibit reduced environmental impact and biodegradability, while maintaining acceptable print quality. On the other hand, non-CRM inks address concerns related to hazardous ink components by excluding carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic substances, ensuring safer work environments and consumer products. This abstract delves into the characteristics, benefits, and limitations of both ink types, highlighting their impact on print quality, environmental sustainability, and human health. The findings emphasise the significance of informed ink selection for diverse printing applications in an increasingly environmentally conscious and eco-friendly society. | ||
15:20 | Optimising electronics manufacturing: The technical advantages of high-viscosity printing The manufacturing landscape in electronics has long been dominated by analogue printing technologies, notably screen printing. This dominance stems from the necessity to strike a balance between device performance and production efficiency. However, the constraints inherent in these traditional methods have impeded the exploration of novel opportunities. The emergence of inkjet printing for depositing ultra high-viscosity materials is ushering in a transformative shift, facilitating the digitalisation of additive manufacturing in actual product production and integration into innovative product lines. This presentation will explore the technical advantages of high-viscosity printing, spotlighting its potential to unlock new dimensions in electronics manufacturing. We will take a look at instances of successfully printing high-performing materials in both 2.5D and 3D formats, granting unparalleled freedom to designers and manufacturers. |
09:25 | Market data insights: In-mold technology in labeling, decoration, and electronics This presentation will provide an in-depth analysis of the in-mold technology industry, focusing on In-Mold Labeling (IML), In-Mold Decoration (IMD), and In-Mold Electronics (IME). The aim is to deliver an updated, independent, and comprehensive assessment of the market for these technologies, which are experiencing diverse growth rates across various industry sectors on a global scale. Our presentation will offer a holistic view of the market, encompassing both global and regional perspectives. Furthermore, we will delve into key application sectors within the market and present a detailed analysis of the value chain. | ||
09:50 | From the BOPP process to the development of film trends The complex BOPP film manufacturing process is able to support the injection mould labelling industry, with a variety of aesthetics and features that deliver a range of unique post moulding finishes. This presentation will offer a cradle-to-cradle view on how films are manufactured, what are the challenges to overcome in order to meet the targets of converting and moulding industries, what visual and tactile characteristics appeal to consumers and finally how these films can contribute to create a sustainable packaging. | ||
10:15 | In-Mold Decoration and Film Insert Molding for printed electronics: State of the art in printing process and ink-layer combinations This presentation will show the advantages of screen printing versus other printing techniques. The IMD/FIM process steps, from screen printing, through to high-pressure forming, UV curing, trimming and back moulding will be shown by means of serial automotive parts. The requirements on the final automotive parts are getting tougher. Therefore, the adhesion in compound (ink/film/injection moulding material) needs to be nearly undetachable and the surface hardness of film or first surface lacquer needs to be chemical and abrasion resistant. We will present layer constructions to improve cohesion and will display the resistance properties of dual cure screen printing lacquers. Last but not least, IMD/FIM automotive parts are functional. Therefore, the printed inks must be non-conductive. We will show a range of non-conductive colour shades to prevent interaction and interference with the conductive pastes. | ||
10:40 | Coffee break | ||
11:20 | Decoration of puzzle pieces directly from the moulding tool straight into the printing process In inline production, where cycle times have a significant influence on the profitability of the investment, attempts are often made to print components which come directly from the moulding tool. In this case, the components still have high temperatures and are not yet completely cured. The surface properties are therefore warm and not yet fully cooled. Printing on this surface is a great challenge for digital printing. Whether there are solutions or not will be described in this presentation –based on a system developed for a project. | ||
11:45 | Fully automatic screen printing solution for FIM and large format frontends Historically, film insert molding (FIM) has been used in the automotive sector for interiors and smaller components e.g. panels. With the introduction of electric vehicles, car manufacturers have the opportunity to use the installation space of the traditional radiator grille to integrate camera and safety technology and at the same time use this as a design element. Thieme’s solutions include extensive options such as traceability management, MES connection, cleaning options and automatic screen humidification. This presentation will not only provide insights into the technology of the future, but also present exclusive information about the next generation of screen printing machines. | ||
12:10 | Panel discussion: The future of in-mould technologies |
Tabletop exhibition
The expanded conference is supported by the complementary tabletop exhibition. Current exhibitors include Agfa, Armor, Borregaard, Arcolor, ChemStream, Cyan-Tec, DataPhysics, DoDxAct, Droptimize, Dr. Hönle, EFI, EIT, Encres Dubuit, Epson, Eurecat, Evonik, Formulaction, Fraunhofer IPA, Fraunhofer ENAS, Fujifilm Specialty Ink Systems, Global Inkjet Systems, Hamamatsu, Hasselt University, Henkel, HMR Expert, Heraeus Noblelight, Hohenstein Laboratories, IACS, ImageXpert, Inkatronic, IST INTECH, KIWO, KNF, Kronos, Kyocera, Lambda, Mankiewicz, Marabu, Meteor Inkjet, Micor, Momentive, Mutoh, Nanoinitiative Bayern, Nazdar, Neatjet, Notion Systems, Nur Ink, Pall, Phoseon, Polytype, Proell, PVF, Quantica, Ricoh, RKS, Roki Group, Seiko Instruments, Siegwerk, Soliton, Sugino, Sun Chemical, Teca-Print, Thieme, Tigres, Toshiba, Tracxon, Trijet, Uviterno, Zeller+Gmelin.
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