Engineered Printing Solutions Will Unveil XD-AQ System
Packaging manufacturers in Chicago will see new technology that enables direct-to-box printing.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Consumer Goods
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Engineered Printing Solutions will demonstrate the new XD-AQ inkjet system at PACK EXPO in Chicago, scheduled for October 18-21, 2026. The platform enables producers to print directly onto pre-formed packaging without the need for additional plates or labels.
Why it matters
The system allows manufacturers to apply graphics to die-cut or folded packaging, supporting rapid artwork changes for shorter runs and versioned designs. By eliminating primers and labels, the technology streamlines post-forming decoration workflows.
The XD-AQ system retails for $345,000 and utilizes eight Xaar Aquinox printheads to achieve speeds of 164 feet per minute. The unit offers a 5.4-inch print swath and 10 inches of vertical clearance to accommodate pre-formed packaging materials.
The players
Engineered Printing Solutions
A manufacturer of industrial inkjet printing systems used for high-speed, direct-to-product decorative applications.
The details
The machine uses high-viscosity, PFAS-free water-based ink to jet CMYK graphics directly onto cartonboard, corrugated, and fiber-based surfaces. Because it omits UV lamps, the system avoids common curing-related drying complexities in high-speed lines. Operators can pull files directly into the system, bypassing traditional setup costs associated with printing plates or adhesive labeling materials.
Timeline
The system announcement occurred in September 2026 at the FuturePrint Packaging Summit.
Live demonstrations will take place from October 18-21, 2026.
Market Landscape
The introduction of the XD-AQ follows an industry-wide trend toward eliminating PFAS and UV-curing processes in commercial packaging. By integrating direct-to-box capabilities, the system competes against traditional plate-based printing and label application methods.
Manufacturers should evaluate whether the $345,000 capital expenditure aligns with their volume of short-run versioned packaging needs. Operators attending the show should monitor the system's ability to handle specific substrate textures at the top-rated 164 feet per minute speed.
The takeaway
The XD-AQ system offers a way to move decoration tasks to the end of the production line rather than using pre-printed stock. Operators should verify if current cartonboard specifications are compatible with the high-viscosity water-based ink chemistry used by the system.
Further reading
For more on industry shifts in packaging production, see the Consumer Goods section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Industry Europe.
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