TTP has developed Vista inkjet technology to satisfy demand from customers who need to deposit precise patterns of viscous chemistries that are integral to novel manufacturing processes.
Context
Inkjet technology is increasingly required to print functional fluids that may be viscous and have significant particulate content.
Solution
TTP has invented Vista, a novel chamberless inkjet architecture that prevents clogging and ensures full fluid circulation during the application of modern functional inks.
Result
TTP’s Vista technology allows automotive manufacturers to apply paint without masking; in 3D printing Vista enables parts to be printed in true engineering plastics rather than modelling resins.
Many commercial opportunities for inkjet technology are currently constrained by the properties of the inks and go under-exploited because conventional inkjet printheads are sensitive to viscosity, surface tension, bubbles and particulate content. This prevents the use of inkjet printing in many valuable industrial applications.
We have invented Vista, a chamberless inkjet architecture in which the nozzle plate vibrates to eject droplets. This prevents clogging and ensures full fluid circulation during the application of modern functional inks.
Vista inkjet technology goes far beyond product decoration, allowing the deposition of a wider range of functional industrial fluids such as flexo and gravure printing inks, paints, adhesives, sealants, coatings and photopolymers, as well as metallics and electronic materials. Vista printheads allow more industrial processes to transition from analogue to digital and will become a key enabler for Industry 4.0.
We are working with both industrial application partners and printhead manufacturers with the aim of launching Vista inkjet technology commercially.
- Comprises a patented, “chamberless” open architecture with ink flowing freely behind the nozzels.
- Prints a wide range of complex and active materials including: ceramics, adhesives, biological cells, metallic flakes and security pigments with particle sizes up to 50µm.
- Operates at up to 120˚C and can process highly viscous and shear thinning materials, as well as phase-changing materials; compatible with solvent, aqueous and oil-based carriers.
- A high degree of reliability is achievable through the combination of recirculation of the ink and unique open construction.
