Flow, level & control
inks are not permitted in certain industries due to the potential radical reaction mechanism, leaving water- based inks as the only alternative.
The choice of ink also affects the design of ink supply systems, particularly the selection of seals. Changing the ink type in an existing system presents several challenges, including how to minimise downtime during the transition. Printer OEMs need to be able to deliver class- leading customer support and this is dependent on the support they receive from their suppliers. By working with an experienced partner that has the knowledge and facilities to develop not only the prototype, but also production quantities, end users can be assured of the best service levels.
BESPOKE SOLUTIONS
Bürkert has an international engineering network of design and manufacturing facilities that encompass all the skills and knowledge required to develop and deliver bespoke fluid flow solutions. The whole process is managed in-house, from initial designs to prototyping, testing and production. Central to the company’s solutions for the printing industry are the injection moulding facili- ties which are used to create the custom valve and control modules that are key to delivering a ‘drop- in’ solution. Coupled with the extensive product ranges for valves, pumps and actuators, each solution can be delivered by a single source. When it comes to delivery of production quan- tities, it is best if this is done by the same facility, rather than transferring the large-scale manufac- turing to another source where quality control may be less effective. By retaining the entire process within the Systemhaus, Bürkert guarantees the highest quality of every unit delivered.
printing and packaging. However, they require seals that resist swelling and equipment designed to handle their lower viscosity.
UV-curable inks offer fast drying times and excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates, making them ideal for high-speed printing on diverse materials. The equipment used must be able to handle the viscosity and curing requirements of these inks. Finally, dye-sublimation inks are used for printing on textiles and other polyester-coated materials,
requiring precise temperature control in addi- tion to robust flow management.
TRANSFERRING TO NEW TECHNOLOGIES
The choice between water-based and UV-based ink largely depends on the material being printed and the printing application. Each type of ink has specific characteristics: UV ink dries faster, requires less space for the drying process, and reduces costs since no heating devices are needed. However, UV
KEEPING PACE WITH THE INDUSTRY However, this is just part of the story, new printers will often need updates and further design support to meet specific customer needs. Suppliers that retain in-house design and manufacturing facilities under the same roof can deliver this more quickly and cost-effectively.
Supplying all of the components within the ink control module also ensures continued support with individual parts during the service life of the printer. Any supersession can be handled properly to ensure backward compatibility so that existing operators retain spare parts availability and their equipment continues to deliver productivity and reliability. By working closely with trusted suppliers such as Bürkert, printing OEMs and their customers can keep pace with the evolving landscape, imple- menting modifications and improvements quickly and effectively. Together, they can continue to develop new solutions and meet the demands of modern printing applications as they emerge.
Bürkert Fluid Control Systems
www.burkert.co.uk
Instrumentation Monthly January 2025 25
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