THE FUTURE OF SCREEN PRINTING
Explore the advancements and innovations shaping the screen printing industry with Peter Buttiens, CEO of ESMA (European Specialist Printing Manufacturers Association), who brings deep insights into the evolution and integration of screen printing technologies, and Jon Bultemeyer, an industry veteran and collaborator with ESMA for SPI (Screen Print Innovations), offering expertise on sustainability and industrial applications.
Could you provide an introduction to ESMA, including an overview of its team and the specific initiatives undertaken to advance screen printing technologies?
PB: ESMA was founded in 1990 as the home for screen print suppliers, manufacturers of print systems, ink and other consumables. Whereas graphics printing was the dominant application, the expansion into industrial part production was already part of the repertoire. To meet the developing needs of technical knowledge for such challenging markets, ESMA introduced a series of highly popular technical conferences such as industrial decoration onto glass, plastic containers (directto- object), operator control panels and other flat surface applications. The high reliability (yield) and precision for straight lines plus the deposit for large particle metallics and special materials opened many doors to specialty printing and printed electronics.
In what ways is screen printing being integrated into Industry 4.0, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
PB: Industry 4.0 integration is no longer optional. Screen printing plays a critical role in producing automotive components, healthcare devices, and many other high-volume industrproducts. Achieving high reliability (Six Sigma) requires real-time monitoring and efficiency control. Industry 4.0 facilitates this by incorporating camera inspection systems at every step, reducing failures and improving quality. Screen printing also intersects with the Internet of Things (IoT), as RFID and NFC antennas are often screen printed. This technology enables the cost-effective and reliable production of sensors and electronic circuits. Artificial Intelligence (AI) serves as a valuable tool in optimizing screen production, minimizing defects, and enhancing automation. AI-driven processes help prevent artifacts, ensure precision, and improve overall production efficiency.
Over the course of ESMA’s 30+ years of existence, what has been identified as the most disruptive innovation within the screen printing industry?
PB: The most disruptive innovations in screen printing are Printed Electronics, Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI), In-Mould Electronics (IME), and 3D In-Mould Electronics. These technologies have become integral to various industries, including household appliances, automotive, and consumer electronics. They offer both aesthetic appeal and high functionality, revolutionizing product design. Screen printing has produced some parts for automotive motor gaskets, antenna solutions, seat heating, tungsten, automotive glass, and the list is almost endless. In electric vehicles (EVs cars), everything needs to be lightweight hence the need for new solutions for battery sensors, battery cooling and heating circuits and interior parts with IME.
Are there any recent innovations that have significantly enhanced the sustainability of screen printing processes?
PB: Particularly in streamlining imaging processes, the whole process became leaner and greener, from better reclaiming of screens and long-lasting precision squeegees, better reclaiming systems with less water consumptions and better recycling. A computermonitored colour kitchen now enables optimized ink mixing, reducing waste and improving efficiency. The double squeegee solution ensures precise paste application while minimizing excess usage. Additionally, modern screen printing machines incorporate automated camera systems for alignment and registration, improving accuracy and reducing material waste.
JB: But the greatest contribution of sustainability from screen printing is the basic chemistry. Due to its high resin content, screen inks allow for lengthy product lives. The longer a product lasts, the lower its overall environmental impact. By ensuring a product lasts for decades, the environmental footprint of its printing process becomes negligible. No other printing technology comes close to the life expectancy offered by screen. Instead of weeks or at best months, screen can last decades.
What are the key reasons for companies to participate in the SPI and adhere to ESMA?
JB: There are 4 key take-aways for attending the SPI: 1) to learn new ideas on how to utilise screen and its strengths by experiencing a top notch set of keynote speakers across the breadth of applications existing today (3D printing to Security Printing to Printed Electronics and beyond), 2) to cross-learn the specific screen printing processes across this breadth of application, 3) to connect with brands understanding their current and future challenges in the industrial world, and 4) to reconnect the community. As the home for industrial printing, The SPI intends to demonstrate why screen is and will be the dominant technology for industrial part production. It will be a unique 3 days because The SPI is pioneering high tech and creativity with print.
