Unlocking a greener future

The industrial sector is facing increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices. As environmental concerns rise, manufacturing businesses in all sectors are looking for innovative technologies that reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower their carbon footprints.

So, how can industrial inkjet technology help?

Inkjet technology has come a long way in recent years, now having a vital role in industrial applications, including textiles, electronics, labelling, prototyping, and more. Unlike traditional printing methods, inkjet printing has a range of benefits that help users to be more sustainable.

One of the most significant advantages of inkjet technology is its ability to minimise material waste. Traditional printing methods often require large set ups that create substantial excess materials, particularly in the form of wasted ink and substrates.

Inkjet systems will print on-demand without the need for plates or extensive set ups. This production approach reduces waste and allows for more efficient resource use.

Manufacturers can produce the exact quantities they need, enhancing their sustainable practices.

In comparison to traditional printing technologies, inkjet printing is generally more energy efficient. Conventional methods use large, heavy machinery, consuming significant amounts of electricity.

Inkjet printers, on the other hand, achieve high quality results with comparatively lower energy consumption. For instance, research by the European Commission shows that switching to inkjet technology can lead to energy savings of 20% to 50%.

Water use is a crucial issue in industrial processes. Many traditional printing methods require significant water for cleaning and operation, resulting in waste that can harm local water sources.

In contrast, inkjet technology significantly cuts down water use. Without the need for plates and extensive cleaning, inkjet printing typically only uses water for ink formulation and minimal maintenance.

On top of this, the 'straight to press' process means that no chemicals are needed to produce processed printing plates, so users no longer need to store, use and then find safe ways of disposing of harmful chemicals.

The inkjet industry is actively developing eco friendly inks too, made from renewable resources. Many manufacturers now offer inks that do not rely on petroleum based components.

These sustainable inks enhance the ecological benefits of inkjet printing. They reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, and incorporate biodegradable materials.

Traditional printing methods often consume significant resources and time for customisation too, so it is not cost efficient or plant friendly to produce one offs. With inkjet, businesses can modify prints at any stage of production without incurring major waste. This flexibility not only supports sustainability but also helps brands provide tailored solutions to meet changing consumer preferences, leading to more responsive and agile markets.

Inkjet technology promotes a cleaner workspace by generating fewer airborne pollutants. Traditional printing methods often release high levels of VOCs, which can impact the health of workers and the environment.

Investing in eco friendly practices can lead to significant long term savings. By adopting inkjet technology, companies can reduce costs associated with wasted resources, energy consumption, and labor.

Less material waste translates into lower spending on unused supplies, while decreased energy use can help lower utility bills. Additionally, since inkjet printing supports cost effective short runs, companies can diversify their product offerings without incurring excessive costs. This economic advantage not only improves competitiveness but also drives further sustainable practices, creating a positive cycle of eco consciousness.

As the demand for sustainability continues to rise, inkjet technology's potential in the industrial market will grow. Future innovations are likely to lead to improvements in printing speed, ink formulations, and energy efficiency, making inkjet an even more attractive option for environmentally focused manufacturers.

Companies that embrace these advancements will position themselves as market leaders while contributing to a healthier planet.