The PRINTING United Journal article "Scaling Up Inkjet" by Ray Greenwood explores how inkjet technology is expanding beyond traditional graphic printing into a wide range of industrial and functional applications. While inkjet is already well established in areas such as electronics, smart packaging, and even bioprinting, the article emphasizes that the technology’s real momentum lies in its ability to precisely deposit materials for advanced manufacturing. This includes emerging uses like direct ink writing, micro-plotting, and high-performance coatings, where accuracy and material control are critical to product performance.
A key focus of the piece is the challenge, and opportunity, of scaling these applications from lab or niche production into full industrial deployment. As inkjet moves into higher-volume production environments, success depends on integrating hardware, software, materials, and process control into a cohesive system. The article highlights that continued innovation in ink formulations, printheads, and application-specific workflows will be essential to unlocking broader adoption. Ultimately, scaling up inkjet is less about a single breakthrough and more about aligning multiple technologies to deliver reliable, repeatable, and economically viable production at scale.Read the full article here.