What is New in Digital Printing?

Inknovation is always happening at Inkcups! Over in Berlin the Inkcups Europe GmbH team debuted the X5-T High Throw UV Flatbed printer for the first time. Incredibly well received by show goers, the X5-T High Throw prints directly on irregularly shaped objects with ease.

The X5-T has up to a 0.59 (15 mm) maximum jetting distance and can print up to 25% of curved or uneven surfaces. As this is the X5-T (T for Tall) High Throw digital printing machine, it can decorate items with the 19.7 in (500 mm) drop table, accommodating parts that have height to them like basketballs, coolers, and more (but not limited to!)

You may be asking, “What is High Throw?”

High throw printing, refers to a specialized form of digital printing that utilizes a longer ink height distance between the printhead and the substrate. This also can be referred to as extended through or high drop or long drop printing.

Tune into Sales Director, Europe, Hendrik Koemans, explaining high throw capabilities from the Inkcups Stand in Berlin here: https://www.apparelist.com/video/what-is-high-throw-printing/

Next thought, “Why is High Throw Important?”

 It’s all about the ability to throw the ink further. This capability opens printing possibilities for objects with uneven surfaces.

Digital Product Manager for the X5-T High Throw, Derek LaChance, makes note that high throw technology is especially valuable for handled mugs, stress balls, and sports balls. He has done countless sample jobs at HQ for a variety of different mugs, pickle ball paddles, and other exciting products we can’t share just yet!

Applications for High Throw

Sporting Equipment

Sports balls are at the heart of some of the world’s most popular games: basketball, soccer, rugby, football, and more. These items are more than just equipment; they’re symbols of team pride, athleticism, and community. Whether on the court, in the stadium, or at the park, balls are constantly in motion, making them ideal canvases for dynamic, high-visibility branding. Whether it’s a logo for a local league, a professional team, or a corporate sponsor, branding on sporting balls puts your message directly into the action.

Learn More: Score Big with a High Drop UV Printer

Promotional Products

Stress balls are more than just a fun, squishy item. They’re a proven tool for reducing stress, improving focus, and providing a moment of calm during a hectic day. When you squeeze a stress ball, the simple, repetitive motion helps to release pent-up tension, allowing your mind to divert its focus from the stressor at hand. It provides a sensory experience that encourages relaxation and can even boost productivity in some cases. Perfect for anyone needing a quick mental break, stress balls have become an essential item in workplaces, schools, and home offices.

Learn More: Squeeze Away Stress with Larger Logos on Stress Balls

Pickleball Paddles

Pickleball is currently the fastest-growing sport in America, and its rise comes as no surprise. From 2022 to 2023, the sport grew by 51.8%, and over the past three years, it has experienced a staggering 223.5% increase in popularity. Dedicated pickleball courts are now springing up in local parks across the country, while tennis courts are being reconfigured with pickleball lines. In northern states, indoor arenas offer year-round play opportunities. 

Learn More: Digitally Decorating on Pickleball Rackets

Handled Drinkware

Let’s state the obvious: handled drinkware is having its moment, and it’s one that’s unlikely to fade anytime soon. All the major players in the drinkware industry are offering cult-classic handled tumblers, designed to keep beverages like Diet Coke cool for hours. While these tumblers were once highly coveted for limited runs in trending colors, the focus has shifted to branded drinkware, often licensed with popular movie franchises, professional sports teams, or trending collections. However, decorating handled drinkware presents a unique challenge. Unlike straight-walled or slightly tapered vessels, the protruding handle complicates the decoration process. Enter high throw printing capabilities.

Learn More: How to Print on Handled Drinkware

Looking to see the X5-T High Throw in action for yourself? See it next at PRINTING United in Orlando Florida this October.

Find the full Inkcups Trade Show Schedule here: https://www.inkcups.com/tradeshows/

Stay tuned and we can't wait to share what's new and exciting in June.