At the IPEX 2010 print, publishing and media trade show in Birmingham, UK, on 18-25 May, Xennia introduced a concept display of its XenJet inkjet modules using advanced composite materials as structural elements. Composites are said to introduce improved stiffness and reduced weight into pivotal components of the printing system.
“We are using IPEX to show the promise of composite materials for the design and manufacture of inkjet printing systems,” says Dr Alan Hudd, Managing Director of Xennia.
"Our composite module concept will lead to much lower build and operating costs for inkjet systems: the lighter modules enable lower cost motion components to be used and lead to a significant reduction in energy consumption," he reports.
Xennia is part of Dutch specialist materials company TenCate.
“Composite materials promise significant performance improvements for inkjet printing systems,” adds Dr James Fox, Xennia’s Chief Technologist. “We are working with a subsidiary of our parent company, TenCate Advanced Composites (a world leading composite materials supplier for high end space and aerospace applications) to introduce Formula 1 technology with the same discipline of structural strength combined with lightness that is the motorsport mantra."
"Application of this technology to inkjet printing systems promises similar benefits, with structural rigidity, mechanical stability over a wide temperature range and lightness. This leads to much enhanced printing performance, with improved printing accuracy and consistency from a higher degree of droplet control, combined with reduced energy consumption.”
Xennia Technology Ltd is headquartered in Letchworth, UK. Its products comprise inkjet modules, systems and inks, backed up by development and support capabilities.
