Pump Applications in the Printing Industry

The printing industry relies on accurate, contamination-free fluid handling systems to move inks, coatings, solvents, and cleaning fluids through various stages of the printing process. Whether for digital, flexographic, offset, or screen printing, pumps are essential to maintain colour consistency, reduce waste, and ensure smooth, uninterrupted press operations. Equipment must support both high-precision and high-speed environments while handling fluids of varying viscosities and chemical compositions.

Printing Industry Key Applications

1. Ink Transfer and Circulation

Inks used in the printing industry must be transferred from bulk storage or intermediate containers to press reservoirs or directly to print heads. This requires smooth, pulse-free flow to avoid disrupting pigment dispersion and print quality.

Diaphragm, peristaltic, and gear pumps are widely used thanks to their gentle handling of pigmented fluids. Their design helps preserve ink properties while reducing foaming and minimising downtime due to clogging or sedimentation.

2. Coating and Varnish Application

The printing industry uses clear coatings, UV varnishes, and protective finishes to enhance durability, gloss, or tactile effects. Pumps ensure these materials are applied consistently and evenly across various substrates without streaking or air entrapment.

Both manual and automated coating systems depend on reliable pump performance. Low-shear pumps help maintain product quality, while corrosion-resistant materials ensure longevity when handling chemically active coatings.

3. Solvent and Cleaning Fluid Handling

Cleaning fluids and solvents are essential for maintaining print heads, rollers, and tanks. These fluids are often volatile and aggressive, requiring safe and controlled transfer.

Magnetic drive and seal-less pumps are ideal choices for ATEX-zoned areas in the printing industry, where explosive vapours must be managed safely. Their leak-free operation protects both staff and sensitive print equipment.

4. Dosing of Additives and Colourants

High-quality printing depends on the precise addition of additives, such as drying agents, wetting enhancers, or custom colourants. The printing industry often requires microdosing at consistent rates to ensure predictable results.

Metering pumps deliver excellent control over dosing rates, even at very low volumes. Their repeatability makes them indispensable for maintaining print integrity across long production runs.

5. Waste Ink and Effluent Removal

During print runs and cleaning cycles, waste ink, spent solvents, and wash water must be collected and safely removed. Pumps used for these tasks must be robust enough to handle contaminated or viscous mixtures.

Slurry-capable diaphragm and peristaltic pumps are often used in the printing industry to ensure uninterrupted effluent transfer to treatment or recycling systems.

6. Thermal Control and Cooling Systems

Advanced printing technologies such as UV or high-speed digital presses can generate considerable heat. Pumps circulate chilled water or heat transfer fluids to prevent overheating and maintain stable operating conditions.

Centrifugal and inline pumps are used for their flow efficiency and ability to support closed-loop cooling circuits. Their reliability supports continuous operation and print accuracy.

For further insights into solvent safety in print applications, see this helpful HSE resource: Solvent use and control in the printing industry.