by Peter Buttiens, CEO of ESMA
Screen printing, often perceived as the 'Cinderella' of the printing industry, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, outpacing the growth of digital printing in certain sectors. Its unparalleled versatility—the ability to 'print anything on anything'—has opened doors to innovative industrial applications, including electronics, cellphone antennas, fuel cells, and security printing.
Recent market analyses underscore this trend. The global industrial screen printing market was valued at approximately USD 695 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1,176.2 million by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8%. (Source: coherentmarketinsights.com). In contrast, the digital printing market, while substantial, is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% over the same period. (Source: grandviewresearch.com)
Print is everywhere, though it often goes unnoticed in daily life. From the labels on our clothing to the circuit boards in our devices, from automotive dashboards to the touch-sensitive panels of medical equipment, screen printing plays an integral role. The method is extensively used in the production of printed electronics, including RFID tags, printed sensors, and flexible displays. Its precision and capability to apply functional inks make it ideal for high-tech applications such as biomedical devices, where accuracy and long shelf life are paramount.
A testament to the advancements in screen printing technology is the upcoming SPI event from 3 to 5 June in Essen, which will showcase groundbreaking developments in this field.
Keynote speakers will delve into innovative applications of screen printing:
- Advanced Screen Printing for 5G/6G Antennas: Sebastian Gepp, Development Manager for Printed Electronics at KUNDISCH GmbH & Co. KG, will discuss how screen printing enables transparent conductive patterns essential for next-generation 5G and 6G antennas. His session will highlight how this technology enhances connectivity and supports future telecommunications advancements.
- Security Printing with ScreenX Raster Process: Jan Rother, Managing Director at FM Siebdruck Werbung Design GmbH, will explore the ScreenX raster process. This innovative technique integrates logos, characters, and symbols into raster dots, making security printing more tamper-resistant and difficult to replicate, benefiting security-critical applications.
- Screen Printing for Fuel Cells & Electrolysers: Dr.-Ing. Eric Klemp, Head of Hydrogen and Additive Manufacturing at Whitecell Eisenhuth GmbH & Co. KG, will discuss how screen printing accelerates the production of fuel cells and electrolysers. His session will focus on its role in manufacturing bipolar plates with high conductivity and low permeability, advancing sustainable energy solutions.
These developments underscore screen printing's pivotal role in driving innovation across various industries. As technology advances and new applications emerge, screen printing continues to demonstrate its relevance and adaptability, solidifying its position as a cornerstone of modern manufacturing.
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About the author:
Peter Buttiens serves as the Chief Executive Officer of ESMA, the European Specialist Printing Manufacturers Association, headquartered in Tielt-Winge, Belgium. Under his leadership, ESMA has become a pivotal organization in the industrial printing sector, fostering knowledge exchange and innovation among its members. With over 16 years at the helm, Buttiens has emphasized the importance of integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices within the industry. He has highlighted the role of industrial printing in various applications, including printed electronics and biomedical devices, underscoring its evolution beyond traditional graphic printing. Buttiens advocates for the adoption of digital processes to enhance efficiency and sustainability in textile printing. He has discussed the significant water savings achievable through the transition from analogue to digital printing methods, aligning with broader environmental goals. Through his efforts, ESMA has strengthened its position as a knowledge hub, connecting industry stakeholders and promoting advancements in industrial printing technologies.
