Business from technology

Web control and digital printing

Competence

VTT focuses on improving the effectiveness of printing processes as well as utilizing printing technology as a manufacturing method for customized consumer-oriented and cost-effective products with novel functional properties. The key competence is the understanding of the critical factors affecting web performance in paper production, converting, and printing. VTT has long experience and the means to improve runnability and productivity. VTT also has vast knowledge of digital printing processes. We have a unique, state-of-the-art inkjet research environment for studying jettable fluids, different substrates, material interactions, and applications. Our activities cover printed matter and packaging and a wide range of other products.

Challenges

The printing industry faces major challenges globally under pressure from the electronic media. Productivity and flexibility through the whole production chain must be improved. The typical means used here are wider and faster printing presses equipped with advanced automation systems. This requires excellent paper and printing press runnability. Another challenge is the diversification of printed products leading to shorter runs, which requires customized on-demand production. At the same time, new applications incorporating printed functional components, such as electronics, place even higher requirements for web handling and print quality.

Solutions

• problems in production solved by simulating the process and by studying the interaction mechanisms of paper and press
  
• on-line measurements, e.g., web tension, web dimensions, and nip pressure
  
• modelling and simulation of new concepts in printed intelligence
  
• digital printing for customized production
  
• inkjet research environment, comprising industrial Fujifilm Dimatix printheads driven by the Apollo II / iTi XYMDS 2.0 integrated system
  
• understanding of dynamic interactions between ink and substrate in digital printing
  
• process performance and cost management
  
• tools for efficient package communication in production chain and with consumers
  
• hybrid media, interaction between the printed product and electronic world
  

Benefits

• better productivity and machine performance in conventional and intelligent printing
  
• effective means for customized products and short runs
  
• new business by evaluating economical and technical viability of manufacturing when using conventional and alternative methods
  
• new added value, functional printed products, including service concepts
  

References and merits

• Knowledge available from large multi-national research projects
  
• More than 50 paper runnability studies for European and North American paper mills and printing plants
  
• Jasper Mardon Memorial Prize at Appita Conference.