Recent and Forecast Progress in Offset and Digital Printing Systems

Abstract

Over the last 30 years, many types of technologies, including special value-added treatments, have been developed in the field of offset printing. Currently, offset printing is a mature technology and almost any flat material can be printed by the offset process. Approximately 20 years ago, digital printing systems became commonplace in the field of professional printing, and their advanced technology is now capable of achieving a high level of print quality and several special features. Although only 2% of all printed pages were printed by digital systems in 2011, the rate of growth is very fast. Komori developed a new UV inkjet digital printing system and exhibited it at drupa 2012 and JGAS 2013. Nevertheless, digital printing systems still have to overcome the issues described in this document if they are to gain market share against offset printing.