Ricoh Europe is supporting the growing demand for industrial inkjet printheads used in wide-format graphics, textile and 3D printing via a new European Ink Jet Technical Centre in Telford.
The centre opens its doors this month and will provide technical support for OEM inkjet innovators across EMEA. It has laboratories for providing internal testing, evaluation and external training, and is equipped to assist integrators from design through to the product introduction.
Graham Kennedy, business development manager, industrial print, Ricoh Europe, said: “We are excited about the possibilities, whether that is to see our printheads being used in functional prototyping and advanced additive manufacturing, or to produce bespoke clothing on demand or to support the graphics and signage needs of the future.”
Ricoh’s technical team will also assess jetting characteristics, component application compatibility and fluid performance - allowing integrators to have their fluid tests performed locally. Chemists as well as mechanical and electrical engineers will be based at the centre to support projects.
“With a large proportion of inkjet technology customers based in EMEA, there was a pressing need to provide the region with localised support. Crucially, this allows our clients to realise their ideas quicker and subsequently bring their products to market in a faster and more efficient manner. The establishment of the support centre ensures we are responsive to their needs and complements our existing support facilities throughout the region," added Kennedy.