Canon unveils high-speed digital press to transform corrugated packaging production

JAPAN – Canon has introduced the corrPRESS iB17, a new industrial inkjet press tailored for large-scale corrugated packaging. 

This machine targets converters facing demands for quicker, more efficient operations in a shifting market.

The press achieves printing speeds of up to 8,000 square meters per hour, translating to roughly 15 million square meters over a year. 

It prints directly onto boards measuring up to 1.7 meters wide, using water-based inks and a primer approved for indirect food contact. 

According to details from the event, the system handles boards from 1mm to 8mm thick and up to 1.3 meters long, running at 80 meters per minute.

Automation stands out as a core element. The corrPRESS iB17 minimizes operator involvement through features like automated printhead cleaning and quality checks. 

It supports runs up to 20,000 square meters without plates or chemicals, cutting waste and speeding up changes between jobs.

Canon developed its 1200 dpi piezo printheads, inks, and drying units in-house for smooth performance.

In a statement, Peter Wolff, chief marketing officer and senior vice-president at Canon Production Printing, said: “The corrPRESS iB17 combines proven inkjet technology with an industrial board transport system to deliver offset-quality prints with strong productivity and flexibility for food contact uses.” 

He added that the press fits easily into current setups, extending digital printing’s advantages to varied run lengths.

Recent updates highlight its environmental edge. The optimized drying process lowers energy consumption and avoids board warping, aiding sustainable practices. 

A report notes the press will enter the market in 2027, initially with CMYK inks and plans to add orange, violet, and green options later.

This expansion could further reduce reliance on traditional methods that generate more waste.

Converters benefit from post-print versatility on coated or uncoated boards, thanks to a spot primer that boosts color accuracy and ink hold without extra drying steps. 

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