Flow, level & control A


s printing technology advances, so too does the need for sophisticated equip- ment that can handle various types of inks while delivering reliability and performance. Modular valve blocks are


integral to modern ink supply and control systems. In gravity-fed systems, these components are designed to regulate the flow of ink from the reser- voir to the print heads with high precision. As print heads evolve for higher resolution and accuracy, the demands on ink supply systems increase. Circulating print heads offer the best opportunity to optimise ink for these needs. Beyond supplying ink, the system must precisely regulate pressure, vacuum, and maintain optimal ink temperature


MAINTAINING CONSISTENCY The precision offered by ink supply systems ensures consistent delivery, which is crucial for maintaining print quality. Variations in ink flow can lead to issues such as colour inconsistency, streaking, or incomplete prints, all of which can negatively impact the final product. By using high-quality modular valve blocks, printers can achieve more uniform results, leading to greater customer satis- faction and reduced waste.


In many industrial printing applications, inks can be highly aggressive or corrosive, espe- cially those containing solvents or other volatile compounds. Therefore, sealing materials within ink supply and control systems are important, as they ensure the integrity of the ink flow and prevent leaks or contamination.


Seals must be made from materials that can withstand these harsh conditions without degrading over time. Common sealing materials include elastomers such as FKM, EPDM, and PTFE. FKM offers excellent chemical resistance and is often used in systems that handle solvent-based inks. EPDM, especially peroxide crosslinked EPDM, is suitable for water-based inks due to its resistance to swelling in aqueous environments, while PTFE is preferred in high-temperature applications or where low friction is necessary.


INK SELECTIONS


The type of ink used in industrial and commercial printers has a significant impact on the choice of equipment and materials. Different inks—such as solvent-based, water-based, UV-curable, and dye-sublimation inks—each have unique proper- ties that require specific handling. Solvent-based inks are commonly used in applications that demand high durability and water resistance, such as outdoor signage. These inks are chemically aggressive, necessitating robust valve blocks and chemically resistant seals.


Water-based inks are more environmentally friendly and are used in applications like textile


24


A QUESTION OF RELIABILITY


SUPPLY AND CONTROL DEVICES FOR INDUSTRIAL PRINTERS


In the world of industrial and commercial printing, the efficiency and precision of ink supply and control systems are crucial to ensuring high-quality output and minimising operational downtime. OEMs looking to create new models or update existing equipment should pay particular attention to the ink delivery system, which is so integral to the quality of their customers products. Working with an established supplier to the industry, with the technical expertise and facilities to deliver bespoke fluidic control systems solutions, will ensure optimal performance. Troy Stehr, industry account manager at Bürkert, looks at the challenges facing the printing industry and how new developments can be managed successfully.


January 2025 Instrumentation Monthly


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