While modern printers chase faster speeds and brighter colours, inconsistent humidity still remains a silent saboteur of profitability – causing all kinds of issues including registration errors, paper curls, and the build-up of static electricity. For most print applications, maintaining relative humidity is essential to keeping substrate stocks stable. However, the ‘best’ way to achieve this can vary significantly depending on your facility's size, budget, and specific printing technology. In this feature, we speak to four humidification specialists in the UK market to get their insights on the topic, while also discovering how to choose a system that can eliminate environmental variables and provide a consistent competitive edge. Energy Conscious Solutions Among the key UK providers of humidification solutions is Humideco, which has been providing systems to the trade since 2002. According to Gareth French, director of Humideco: “We were founded in response to a need for a more energy-conscious solution to the question of humidification.” As French describes it, humidifier systems were historically either based on steam or compressed air, which can consume a lot of energy. Humideco, by contrast, offers two core product ranges for print applications, namely its Ultrasonic humidifiers and EcoMist nozzle systems. Describing the core features of the systems, French says: “Ultrasonic systems can achieve tight control of relative humidity, with minimal energy use, and virtually zero maintenance. They are perfect for local control in smaller areas, perhaps around a digital print machine or a proofing area. EcoMist systems are usually a bespoke solution suited to larger open areas, again with very low energy consumption. “Both systems can be set up to control across multiple zones, allowing for optimal conditions where needed with the lowest water and energy consumption.” Humideco’s systems are designed to provide full control over operational settings including water consumption and relative humidity. As French explains: “No two projects are the same, and with water chemistry such a variable across the country, this is always important.” French also stresses the importance We speak to a range of humidification specialists about how to choose the right system for your print output, and how the changing industry landscape is evolving the solutions on offer WHY HUMIDITY CONTROL STILL MATTERS HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEMS | JONATHAN PERT 42 Issue 359 - March | April 2026 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk
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