Digital-direct printing on plastic

Aware of the potential and benefits of direct on line digital printing, Krones AG is presenting DecoType: a system of decoration for plastic bottles (but a model for glass is also under development) that meets the requirements of flexibility and decoration associated with the growing product personalisation, the relative reduction lot sizes and the consequent problems of organization and cost effectiveness.

The benefits of the direct printing of containers derive principally from the short creation times, as well as the easy integration of variable data. DecoType has a compact modular design and can print up to a height of 200 mm on empty PET, PP or PE, cylindrical or shaped containers, with excellent aesthetic results even on uneven surfaces.

Technical characteristics. The printing units integrated with the ink supply and automatic adjustment of the head, enable easy switching from one type of container to another. Even the printhead washing process is automatic. The ink topping-up operation is smooth-running, and the arc lamps ensure safe UV curing.

DecoType also enables the printing of containers with structures difficult to label; thanks to the digital technology, it avoids the production of excess labels, does not require the use of adhesives, reduces storage costs and offers a speedy format change.