operations and long-term brand reputation. It’s a risk no serious print operation can afford to take.” As to how DriSteem can help, Finkel says its Adiatec high-pressure humidification systems are popular with larger print facilities that prioritise energy efficiency and low operating costs. These adiabatic systems introduce fine water mist into the air, cooling and humidifying at the same time, making them suitable for high-volume print facilities where both humidity control and energy savings are top priorities. For applications that require tight humidity control, such as digital printing or specialised finishing processes, Finkel recommends RTS electric humidifiers, which he says offer precise isothermal performance with clean steam output. With options for wall-mounted or ducted installations, Finkel adds that the RTS line is both versatile and easy to integrate into existing infrastructure. In retrofit scenarios, especially common in older UK buildings, Ultra-sorb steam dispersion panels offer a compact solution. Panels are fully customisable to fit within tight ductwork and are engineered to provide rapid steam absorption without condensation, reducing the risk of water accumulation and potential damage to equipment or materials. Top Priority Also offering guidance is Dave Marshall-George, UK and Ireland sales director at Condair. He says to maximise the return on investment in a humidification system, PSPs should consider not just the initial purchase and installation costs, but also long-term operational expenses and support offered by the supplier. “Humidifiers come in various types, including steam, spray, evaporative, and ultrasonic systems,” he says, adding: “The best choice depends on the specific needs of the project, which is why consulting a supplier with a broad product range is key. They can offer unbiased guidance without favouring one technology over another. “Hygiene should be a top priority, with features designed to prevent water from remaining stagnant in the humidifier or pipework during periods of inactivity. User-friendliness and the ability to perform routine maintenance in-house are also important, helping to reduce ongoing service costs.” Marshall-George admits that as low humidity problems do not affect UK PSPs all year round, they are often dismissed as a seasonal inconvenience, with an expected dip in productivity or quality that simply occurs each winter. However, he says the consequences can be more significant than they appear, especially if they lead to reduced print quality and the potential loss of clients. “These impacts are not always obvious, as dissatisfied customers may choose not to voice their concerns and rarely inform suppliers when they decide to switch providers,” he explains. “To make a well-informed decision about investing in a humidification system, a printer must recognise and link any recurring productivity or quality issues to low humidity conditions. Next, they need to assess the financial impact of these issues and compare it to the cost of a humidification solution – both the initial investment and long-term operating costs.” While there is no universal solution for managing humidity in the print industry, Marshall-George says the ideal approach depends on several factors: required humidity levels, room layout, contents, air circulation, and budget, among others. For smaller environments, he recommends a wall-mounted steam humidifier with a fan, such as the Condair EL, as these systems deliver between a few kilograms to 40kg of steam per hour. In larger print facilities, Marshall-George says spray humidifiers are typically more effective. In addition to regulating humidity, they provide free evaporative cooling, which he sees as a valuable benefit in spaces where print equipment generates significant heat. “Older industrial buildings used by printers often have inadequate ventilation, leading to issues like condensation, mould, and excessive moisture absorption by paper,” he explains, adding: “To address this, Condair also supplies a full range of dehumidifiers to help maintain optimal environmental conditions.” Significantly Minimise Issues Elsewhere and Rory Depree is marketing manager of the aptly named Humidity Solutions. For optimal printing and paper storage conditions, he says relative humidity should be kept between 50 to 60 to avoid various issues. These problems may include paper misfeeds and creasing when dry air pulls moisture from the exposed surfaces of paper stacks, causing the edges to tighten and shrink. PSPS may also encounter size and alignment issues as changes in paper dimensions can affect how colours align in multi-colour print jobs, leading to misregistration and reduced print quality. “By maintaining relative humidity within the recommended range, PSPs can significantly minimise these issues,” he says, adding: “This not only improves print quality but also reduces waste, increases production efficiency, and boosts overall profitability. “Failing to invest in proper humidification can have a serious impact on printing performance and efficiency. While every Typical ideal humidity level for printing facilities is 5060% relative humidity 50-60% ▼DriSteem offers a range of humidification solutions to the print market HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEMS The best choice depends on the specific needs of the project, which is why consulting a supplier with a broad product range is key 58 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2025 - Issue 355
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