Not just large formats: the digital revolution also embraces special pieces

Unveiled at TECNA 2024, EDGE is a complete solution specifically designed to perform direct decoration of the edges of ceramic skirting tiles. An innovation that meets the growing demand for customization and the development of coordinated ceramic design projects.

In the ongoing evolution of digital ceramic surface decoration, a new frontier has emerged. This time the focus is not on solutions for large tiles and slabs, but on an inkjet printer that is designed to perform direct decoration of the edges of ceramic skirting tiles. It’s called EDGE and was launched for the first time at TECNA 2024.

This new printer is a one-of-a-kind system designed to meet new market demands for a high level of customisation, high-quality decorative details and reduced environmental impact, fulfilling all three needs with precision, efficiency and sustainability.

In today’s highly competitive ceramic industry, skirting tile edge decoration is often overlooked but it is crucial for achieving visual continuity and a flawless finish. EDGE redefines this stage of production with a radically innovative, highly automated approach that combines next-generation inkjet technology with advanced materials and an optimised industrial workflow.

At the heart of the system is a direct-to-edge printing process built on the new Round Drop Inkjet Technology platform. This exclusive technology deposits perfectly spherical ink droplets with high precision, ensuring uniform coverage even on slightly uneven or irregular surfaces.

This results in exceptional detail and seamless continuity between the front and the edge of the skirting, creating an unprecedented perception of continuity in terms of material and colour.

Water-based inks: performance and eco-compatibility

One of the most revolutionary features of EDGE is its water-based ink system, enhanced with a high-performance nanopolymer that penetrates deeply into the ceramic surface and bonds securely thanks to a dual firing process.

This proprietary formulation delivers outstanding resistance to abrasion and to common chemicals such as alkaline detergents or mild solvents, while also representing a strategic choice in terms of sustainability. The absence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) makes the entire process more environmentally friendly and safer for production personnel.

Intelligent, low-energy polymerisation

Drying and fixing the ink is performed by the exclusive EDGEwave low-temperature kiln, a compact yet highly efficient unit that uses variable modulation waves to polymerise the ink while consuming far less energy than traditional gas kilns. This innovative system not only ensures perfect drying but also preserves the original colour tones and brilliance.

Before entering the kiln, the ink undergoes an intermediate fixing stage using special SQ6 infrared lamps, which operate at 350°C in ultra-fast cycles. This step is essential for ensuring print stability and avoiding issues such as meniscus formation or colour migration, thereby guaranteeing consistently sharp, uniform definition.

A complete colour system for total creative freedom

EDGE operates with a six-colour system consisting of traditional CMYK along with a high-opacity white and a special Glossy channel for surface finish control. The white ink allows dark surfaces to be printed without losing colour vibrancy and saturation, thanks to the ability to perform overprinting with a high degree of precision. The Glossy channel enables dynamic control of gloss levels, adding visual depth and varied tactility to the finished product.

This level of flexibility allows for unprecedented creative freedom, making EDGE ideal for both high-volume production and small, high-value print runs.

Optimised workflow: from loading to packaging, without interruption

The production flow is designed to ensure maximum efficiency. Skirting tiles are batch loaded directly onto the printer’s brushless motor-driven conveyor belt, the print width of 700 mm allowing for up to 70 pieces per cycle. Graphics are managed by the powerful Dina RIP software, which includes advanced automatic colour matching and continuous decoration alignment between the front and edge. This ensures perfectly consistent results even with complex designs or textured effects.

An intuitive, customisable high-resolution touchscreen panel allows operators to control all print parameters, monitor material status and make real-time adjustments.

Millimetric precision with AXXY technology

Another distinctive feature of this technology is the fact that it integrates the AXXY active height-reading system, which maintains the optimal distance between printheads and the surface of the skirting at all times. This ensures flawless print quality even on pieces with slight dimensional variations, guaranteeing perfect focus and consistent ink delivery.

Industrial performance: up to 2,000 pieces/hour at 1280 dpi

EDGE combines exceptional visual quality with the highest levels of productivity, printing up to 2,000 skirting tiles per hour at resolutions of up to 1280 dpi. This is achieved through the use of Ricoh Gen5 printheads, known for their reliability, durability and ability to reproduce fine details with vivid, consistent colour.

A new benchmark for the ceramic industry

In an industry increasingly focused on customisation, fast turnaround and sustainability, EDGE offers a forward-looking solution. Its combination of advanced technology, innovative materials and a fully digitalised production process reduces operating costs, energy use and production times while significantly improving perceived quality and product value.

Thanks to the edge decoration, skirting tiles are no longer accessories but a key aspect of ceramic design, helping set new trends and standards in the production of porcelain stoneware tiles.

Ceramic digital printing enters a new era, where a complete, scalable and sustainable technology elevates every detail of ceramic products, including the hidden edges.

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