Digital printer makers have long developed expertise in ink technology, as they can ensure that the inks they created are matched with their printers and printheads. Having been in the inkjet business for more than five decades, Ricoh is proof that inks and press development go hand-in-hand.

Tim Bolton, manager, inkjet technology portfolio for Ricoh, noted that the company has come a long way over the last 50+ years.

Ricoh began its Inkjet Research and Development group over 50 years ago in 1973,” Bolton said. “In 2023 Ricoh was the number one global market share leader in continuous forms inkjet printing systems.”

Bolton observed that Ricoh views inkjet as much more than just an “ink on paper” technology.

“While we are a major player in the transactional and graphic arts print markets, we are also heavily involved in wide format, ceramics, textiles, and additive manufacturing (3D printing), as well as advances in printing solar panels, batteries and even in the biomedical space,” he added.

Each of these products require their own specialized ink formulations. On the ink side, Ricoh’s creativity can be seen in its 2022 introduction of a new plant-based ink, derived from an oil-based ink created for the décor sector.

“Brand owners and printer manufacturers are increasingly focused on reducing their environmental impact and applying sustainable practices wherever possible,” said Graham Kennedy, director industrial printing, graphic communications, Ricoh Europe. “With our new plant-based ink, they can seamlessly introduce positive changes that make a big difference without impacting their high-quality printed results.”

Bolton pointed out that Ricoh is a holistic solution provider rather than just an equipment manufacturer.

“We tightly integrate our printhead technology, ink technology, drying technology as well as workflow and professional services into comprehensive, turnkey solutions,” said Bolton. “Continuous innovation in inkjet, driven by over 600 dedicated IJ engineers worldwide, is at the core of Ricoh’s business. Servicing and supporting those products in the field, often in 24/7 environments, is a key differentiator for Ricoh in the marketplace.”

Innovation is always at the forefront at Ricoh, as the company looks to make advances in its press, printhead and ink technologies simultaneously. One example is the recent introduction of the RICOH Pro VC80000, a continuous feed inkjet printer.

“With the recent release of the RICOH Pro VC80000, we have made significant strides in the automation of productivity and quality control activities that until recently, were heavily dependent on skilled operators, who are increasingly harder and harder to find,” said Bolton. “Not only do we continue to enhance printing and drying with the real-world applications of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, we are also directly addressing labor challenges facing nearly all print service providers.”

Bolton sees bright times ahead for Ricoh.

“Overall, Ricoh is extremely excited about the future of inkjet technologies and our contribution to the various markets we support,” Bolton concluded. “We are committed to the long-term advancement of inkjet technologies and how they can solve business and environmental challenges today and into the forseeable future.”

Ricoh Americas
300 Eagleview Boulevard
Suite 200
Exton, PA 19341, US

Tel: 610-296-8000
https://www.ricoh-usa.com

Major Products: Inkjet Inks