Details:
Summary:
Screen-printing is frequently used to print inks containing complex materials, such as those found in biomedical sensors, low density semi conductors and smart packaging. Screen-printing has the advantage of being able to print inks that frequently contain large functional particulates, while enjoying exceptional product consistency. The variation for print to print is the smallest of any volume printing process. However, the print speed that can be achieved by the screen-printing process is lower than other volume processes, such as flexo or litho. Thus, it is difficult to integrate screen directly with packaging lines. As part of screen-printing press development, fundamental issues relating to the fluid dynamics and mechanics of the process have been examined. This has led to the development of a novel squeegee system that enables the printing of high resolution through fine meshes at high speed. This paper first reviews the current performance of screen for industrial printing applications. Based on this review, a new design of roller squeegee was developed that reduces friction. The performance of the squeegee has been evaluated both experimentally and theoretically using numerical modelling. The new design allows higher speeds without loss of quality and paves the way for the improved productivity of existing screen-printing and for the long term integration of screen with other volume print processes.