47 Issue 258 - April / May 2025 email: editor@signlink.co.uk both roll and rigid applications.” And the development does not stop there. Earlier this year, Mutoh announced the launch of Mutoh Hydratron, which, powered by AQUAFUZE, is an advanced UV-curable water-based ink technology developed by Fujifilm. “This hybrid ink system combines the benefits of water-based and UV-curable inks, utilising Fujifilm’s proprietary dispersion technology to achieve low-VOC, low-odour, and non-hazardous printing,” Kneale explains, adding: “While eco-solvent and UV will always have a place, I believe this is a sign of things to come.” Continued Growth Regarding the performance of inks, Xaar is a specialist developer of printheads. Director of sales, Justin Noble, says the future of DTO printing looks promising, with continued growth expected as OEMs integrate inkjet technology’s many advantages into new print machinery solutions. “These advancements enable printing on a diverse range of substrates, delivering exceptionally fine details, and accommodating irregular surfaces through non-contact printing,” Noble says, continuing: “Additionally, the development of high viscosity inks tailored for different materials will further expand the versatility of DTO printing, allowing for high-quality customisation across various industries from luxury packaging to life-saving medical devices.” Noble agrees growth is primarily being driven by manufacturers responding to consumers’ desire for bespoke and personalised products. He says this trend is particularly evident in the luxury wine, spirits, cosmetics, and perfume industries, where packaging plays a crucial role in helping products stand out on crowded retail shelves. “High-impact visuals and tactile effects are essential in attracting consumers’ attention and enhancing brand perception, with the latest inkjet technologies and inks helping to meet this demand,” he comments, adding: “Beyond aesthetics, direct-to-shape printing can offer significant cost advantages, with premium packaging producers able to reduce costs and streamline production. The combination of efficiency, and sustainability, alongside the ability to create striking, customised packaging, is fuelling the rapid adoption of DTO printing.” With this in mind, Noble says the latest printheads provide the quality and speed required for DTO printing productivity and enable reliable printing in different directions on curved or complex surfaces. He gives the example of how Xaar’s printheads can print in any orientation, including vertically, thanks to its TF Technology. By recirculating fluid at a very high flow rate and ensuring nozzles remain continuously primed and operational, Noble says this makes them ideal for challenging DTO applications. Going into further detail on Xaar’s innovations, Noble highlights High Laydown and Ultra High Viscosity Technologies, which have supported Kammann’s machine advancements in digital printing. “By integrating Xaar's printheads, Marabu's Ultra High Viscosity fluids, and Kammann's innovative digital print technology, it has been possible to create embossed effects on glass bottles and other packaging with a laydown build height of up to 3mm – and without compromising intricate details or sharp contour edges,” he explains. “This innovation was driven through the collaboration of all three partners, with printhead manufacturer, ink supplier, and machine builder using their expertise to open new possibilities that traditional analogue printing methods cannot deliver. Such digital processes are transforming packaging design, offering unprecedented customisation options beyond the reach of traditional methods.” These closing comments will only generate more excitement about the future of DTO and what this may hold for those companies active in the sector. Those seeking to make a move into the market should consider reaching out to manufacturers and suppliers such as these featured here to learn more about entrylevel solutions, while those looking to strengthen their current offering should also evaluate the latest options to see how these can help them evolve. ► Available from Graphtec GB, the Mutoh collection of flatbed printers has bed sizes ranging from 1,420mm x 700mm to 483mm x 329mm. Pictured: the XPJ-1462UF ▼ According to Xaar, the future of DTO printing looks promising, with continued growth expected in the coming years DIRECT-TO-OBJECT PRINTERS According to Epsilon, 80% of consumers are more likely to make a purchase from a brand that provides personalised experiences Factoid
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