Abstract of the Offer
Inkjet printing technology. R&D in new applications for Inkjet printing.
Description
Inkjet printing is a versatile and precise digital printing technology that enables the deposition of inks, coatings, and functional materials onto a variety of substrates. Domino Printing develops and manufactures industrial inkjet systems, including hardware, software, and specialised inks, offering high-quality and robust solutions for diverse applications. These systems are widely used in sectors such as food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, and they have significant potential for adaptation within the space industry.
Domino’s inkjet technology offers the following key functions:
- High-precision printing: Depositing inks and coatings with micron-level accuracy for applications requiring fine details and minimal material waste.
- Variable data printing: Real-time printing of serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes, and other unique identifiers to enhance traceability and customisation.
- Non-contact marking: Enables printing on delicate or uneven surfaces without causing damage, ideal for complex aerospace components.
- Durable and specialised inks: Formulations resistant to extreme environmental conditions such as UV radiation, extreme temperatures, and mechanical stress.
- Automation integration: Seamlessly integrates into existing manufacturing processes for space component production and logistics.
Inkjet printing technology works through the precise ejection of ink droplets onto a surface using one of two primary mechanisms:
- Drop-on-Demand (DOD): Ink is ejected only when needed, either by thermal or piezoelectric actuation. This method offers high resolution and efficiency, suitable for printing fine details on spacecraft parts and electronics.
- Continuous Inkjet (CIJ): A continuous stream of ink droplets is generated and selectively directed onto the target surface. Ideal for high-speed, high-volume applications, such as labelling spacecraft components during assembly or testing phases.
The technology supports various ink formulations, including conductive, insulating, and high-temperature-resistant inks, enabling functional applications beyond simple marking and labelling.
Advantages and Innovations
Domino Printing’s industrial inkjet technology provides high-precision, non-contact printing solutions that enable advanced marking, coating, and functional material deposition. It offers micron-level accuracy, variable data printing. Durable, space-grade ink formulations suitable for spacecraft manufacturing and operations can be designed.
- High-resolution printing: Achieves feature sizes down to 20-50 microns, enabling fine detail applications such as printed electronics and micro-coatings, surpassing traditional methods like screen printing.
- Non-contact and conformal printing: Adapts to complex and delicate surfaces, minimising mechanical damage and improving compatibility with lightweight spacecraft structures.
- Customised inks: Potential inks include radiation-resistant, thermal-resistant, and conductive formulations, reducing weight and improving durability.
- On-demand digital printing: Enables real-time printing of variable data such as serial numbers and QR codes, reducing production cycle times.
- Low material waste: Precision drop placement minimises ink usage, reducing material waste. Compact system design: Modular and scalable solutions reduce equipment footprint, making them easier to integrate into existing manufacturing workflows.
Key advantages over alternative technologies:
- Higher precision, reduced waste, and improved automation compatibility compared to screen printing, adhesive labels, or laser engraving.
- Enhanced durability and performance in extreme space environments, offering long-term reliability and cost efficiency.
- Lower operational costs and environmental impact due to efficient ink utilisation and lightweight coatings.