The KM1024i printhead from Konica Minolta is a piezoelectric drop-on-demand printhead designed for industrial inkjet printing. It features 1,024 nozzles arranged in four rows, a 72 mm printing width, and an independent drive system that allows all nozzles to eject ink simultaneously.
Compared with the earlier KM1024 series, this drive architecture supports higher operating frequencies and improved productivity in compatible printing systems.
Key Technical Features
Independent Nozzle Drive
The KM1024i uses an independent drive system rather than the three-cycle drive method of the earlier KM1024 series. This enables simultaneous firing across all 1,024 nozzles and supports drive frequencies of up to 45 kHz or higher on selected models.
The higher drive frequency makes the series suitable for high-speed industrial systems, including single-pass printing applications.
Grayscale Printing and Droplet Control
The KM1024i series supports up to eight grayscale levels. Depending on the model, nominal droplet volumes include 6 pL, 13 pL, and 30 pL.
Smaller droplets can support fine details and smoother tonal transitions, while larger droplets provide greater ink deposition for coverage or special surface effects. The appropriate choice depends on the substrate, ink, and desired print result.
Ink Temperature and Fluid Compatibility
A built-in heater helps control ink temperature, particularly when processing inks that require temperature management. The series also features an ink-tolerant structure, with ink circulation capability designed to support stable jetting in suitable applications.
However, ink compatibility differs by model. Selected models support solvent, oil-based, or UV-curable inks, while other versions are designed for water-based inks. Always verify the complete model specification before selecting an ink.
KM1024i Printhead Specifications
Key specifications published by Konica Minolta include:
● Technology: Piezoelectric drop-on-demand
● Nozzle count: 1,024
● Nozzle resolution: 360 npi
● Printing width: 72 mm
● Grayscale: Up to 8 levels
● Maximum drive frequency: Model-dependent, reaching 56 kHz on selected versions
● Built-in heater: Available across the listed KM1024i models
These figures describe the series rather than a single configuration. Droplet size, drive frequency, and ink compatibility vary by model.
Industrial Printing Applications
The KM1024i series can be used in industrial printing systems for applications such as ceramic decoration, label printing, packaging, and other specialized production processes. The exact application depends on the printhead variant, ink formulation, and printer integration.
For example, medium-droplet models can suit applications requiring a balance between detail and output, while large-droplet models may be more appropriate when greater ink deposition is needed.
Choosing the Correct KM1024i Model
Before purchasing a KM1024i printhead, confirm the complete model number, compatible ink type, required droplet volume, drive frequency, and electrical specifications. Also check the printer’s control system and ink-delivery configuration.
A correct match helps prevent compatibility problems and supports the performance expected from the printhead.
Conclusion
The KM1024i printhead combines independent nozzle drive, high-frequency operation, and grayscale capability for industrial inkjet printing. Its different variants serve different ink systems and production requirements, so model-specific specifications should guide purchasing and integration decisions.
