Introduction to Inkjet Technology
Inkjet technology is one of many printing methods, and it involves several basic physical principles. Read further to learn more about Kyocera's inkjet technology and how it works, using a unique mechanism for jetting ink.
What is an "Inkjet"?
In simple terms, inkjet technology can be described as "jetting picoliter-sized* droplets of ink onto objects ("media") for the purpose of printing." Even inkjet printers used in the home operate on this principle, ejecting ink droplets of a few pL in volume onto media (typically paper) supplied from ink cartridges. Kyocera's inkjet printheads are designed for commercial and industrial printers, which work in the same way, but on a larger scale.
Inkjet technology can print on various kinds of materials because of its ability to print without physically contacting the print medium. Kyocera's inkjet printheads provide high-speed, high-definition color printing as well as a wide structure that covers a large print area. They are also durable, designed for reliable operation in the fields of commercial and industrial printing.
*A picoliter (pL) is a unit of volume equal to one-trillionth of a liter (10-12 L).
Kyocera's Inkjet Technology
Kyocera's inkjet printheads use "bend mode" for drop-on-demand operation. "Bend mode" maximizes the advantages of the piezoelectric actuators developed using our Fine Ceramic technology, which optimize speed, durability, and print area.
Drop-on-demand：A method to eject ink from the inkjet printhead onto media only when necessary (not continuously).
Bend(flexure) mode：A method to eject ink in precise amounts using deflection generated by a piezoelectric actuator.
Mechanism for jetting ink
An inkjet printhead consists of individual flow channels formed precisely to supply ink to a large number of tiny nozzles.
1. Piezoelectric actuator cavity undergoes "deflection" when voltage is applied.
2. Deflection changes cavity volume, which transmits pressure waves to the nozzles.
3. Ink are ejected from the nozzles in precise volumes by the action of the pressure waves.
