One Printer Multiple Configurations
Take your ideas from concept to process
| Take your ideas from concept to production |
| with the DICElab process development printer |
| Find out how |
Single pass inkjet printing is ideal for a wide variety of high-volume manufacturing applications. The DICElab Process Development Printer is a modular print system that uses the proven DICE™ inkjet sub-system to deposit inks and other fluids onto a variety of substrates. This enables manufacturers to quickly bring new inkjet applications from concept to production, using real world production printheads.
Applications include:
- Materials and process development ("from lab to fab")
- Ink & functional fluid performance testing with different substrates
- Printhead performance testing
- Cure lamp testing
- Visual inspection of roll-fed products
- Narrow web product printing (e.g. labels, tickets, tags) with fixed or variable data and barcodes
- Printing on 3D objects (with conveyor option)
The DICElab is built up from a series of modules, so it is highly configurable and expandable. A basic configuration includes the following:
DICElab Video
- Two Core Chuck Servo Blocks
- Web Extension Block
- Machine base
- Printbar with mount space for 6 printheads, with automatic nozzle-plate cleaning
- Motorized Printbar Mount (X-Z stage with theta cams)
- Compact Recirculating Ink Supply with Mount, Cables & Controls, supporting Autofill, Autoflush, Temperature & Flow Control
- Control Rack with Drive Electronics Power distribution, Ink Support Modules, PC & Software
Items 1 and 2 form the basis of the roll-to-roll material transport system, and items 4-7 essentially comprise the well proven DICEbase inkjet print engine. Additional material user exchangeable transport options:
- Conveyor
- Slide-table
Superior Technology
Many small web printers use cheap motors and pneumatic brake/clutch systems to control web speed and tension. The DICElab printer uses two core chuck servo blocks for precise web control to:
- Run at constant linear web speed from the beginning of the roll to the end
- Run forward and backward without removing material from the system, allowing the system to backup and review printing without removing material from a roll.
- Provide precise tension control avoids damage to delicate substrates
- Allow the introduction of additional processes such as coating stations and lamination stations while maintaining uniform web tension.