Diversified Printing Techniques, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, has introduced the KSD 165, the next generation of servo-driven pad printing technology designed for high-precision, high-volume industrial decorating. The KSD 165 combines digital pad stroke control (DPS), programmable print dwell and a patented G-Cup ink system into one rugged, automation-ready platform. This advanced press enables decorators to achieve new levels of accuracy, repeatability and control while working with complex, difficult or textured substrates.
The KSD 165 fully integrates digital servo motion across all major axes, allowing every movement from pad stroke to plate shuttle to compression to be precisely programmed and repeated. Unlike conventional pneumatic presses, the servo-driven design eliminates the variability associated with air systems, providing consistent, predictable results even under fluctuating environmental conditions. Built on a rugged, automation-ready steel frame, the KSD 165 represents a future-focused approach to industrial pad printing.
Addressing Production Challenges and Optimizing Processes
Maintaining print quality on curved, textured or irregular parts has long challenged pad printing operations. The KSD 165 addresses this by providing operators complete digital control via a touchscreen PLC interface, which allows programming of speeds, pad strokes and dwell times for both ink pickup and product laydown. This reduces the impact of material variation, substrate irregularity or environmental changes such as humidity and temperature. The system’s DPS and programmable print dwell provide decorators the flexibility to fine-tune application parameters on the fly, resulting in optimal ink transfer across a wide range of substrates.
The machine’s servo-motion components, including an oversized STAR ball screw and linear guide rails on all motion axes, provide ultra-smooth, precise operation at any speed. Whether configured for slow, high-precision work or fast-paced production cycles, the KSD 165 performs with stability and repeatability suited to industrial environments.
By replacing legacy pneumatic motion with precision servo motors, the system achieves ±0.02 mm accuracy and repeatability, helping users maintain consistent results over extended production cycles with minimal mechanical wear.
The patented G-Cup ink system incorporates a removable inner liner that simplifies cleaning and reduces solvent use. This minimizes waste and shortens maintenance time, supporting both shop floor efficiency and sustainable production goals.
With the ability to digitally store and recall job parameters, decorators experience quicker set-ups, reduced scrap and consistent output across repeated production runs. These capabilities directly translate into improved productivity and lower operating costs.
Built for Automation and Scalability
Designed for flexibility, the KSD 165 can operate as a standalone press or be integrated into robotic or automated production lines. Its modular platform supports linear servo shuttles, part-handling systems and robotic arms, allowing manufacturers to scale as production demands grow. Combining robust mechanical engineering with advanced digital control, the KSD 165 aligns pad printing with the evolving needs of smart manufacturing.
The KSD 165 from Diversified Printing Techniques offers industrial decorators a precision-driven, automation-ready pad printing solution. It combines the stability of servo motion with the intelligence of digital process control to meet the demands of modern production environments.
For more information, visit www.diverprint.com.