#252 - Drying Differently: How RF Technology Can Revolutionise Digital Print for Packaging
In this episode, we speak with Dr Peter Brown and Rowan Beale from 42 Technology, a FuturePrint partner that may have cracked one of digital print’s most stubborn challenges: how to efficiently dry aqueous inks—without compromising substrates or sustainability goals.
Their RF dielectric drying technology delivers up to 75% energy efficiency, compared to just 5–15% with traditional drying methods such as hot air and near-infrared. Even more compelling, it enables high-quality aqueous ink printing on previously unsuitable materials like plastic films—opening new commercial possibilities for packaging and beyond.
🔍 Key Highlights:
Targeted Energy Use: RF dielectric drying heats only the ink—not the substrate or surrounding materials—making it highly efficient.
Consistent Results Across Colours: Unlike infrared drying, RF drying is colour-independent, eliminating issues with uneven drying times.
Aqueous Ink Momentum: With growing regulatory pressure and sustainability demands, aqueous inks are on the rise—but traditional drying has held them back. Until now.
Efficiency Gains: Hot air offers ~5% efficiency; near-IR ~15%. RF drying reaches up to 75%, significantly reducing energy costs.
Technical Breakthroughs: 42 Technology overcame major design challenges—including electrode development—to deliver a compact, cost-effective solution.
Challenging Industry Myths: The team proves that RF drying does work for thin ink films, overturning longstanding assumptions.
Broader Potential: Beyond print, applications include food industry moisture removal and medical microfluidic heating.
Looking Ahead: 42 Technology is now seeking development partners to help scale and commercialise this proven innovation.
This story also highlights how cross-industry expertise and unconventional thinking can unlock new solutions to persistent problems.
👉 Interested in partnership opportunities?
Visit 42technology.com and email Peter [email protected] or Rowan [email protected]
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FuturePrint is dedicated to and passionate about the power of print technology to enable new opportunities and create new value. This pod features deep-dive discussions with the people behind the tech as well as market analysis, trends, marketing and storytelling!
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