Inkcups launches Helix High Throw Printer

Direct-to-object printing technology provider, Inkcups, has announced the launch of the Helix High Throw UV Cylindrical Printer which brings the company’s High Throw technology into the Helix family of cylindrical direct-to-object (DTO) inkjet printers.

High Throw technology was first seen on the X5-T High Throw in 2025 and is a technology that increases the ink throw distance between the printhead and substrate in order to allow ink to be accurately placed on challenging surfaces.

The printer has been designed to accommodate height variations while decorating cylindrical and conical products and is also highlighted as being well-suited to challenging items like pet bowls, rugby balls, and planters, and irregular shapes such as stepped and tapered vessels.

The press is capable of printing products with a diameter range from 65 mm to 180 mm and handling height variations up to 15 mm. Other features include advanced product scanning capabilities and an automatic, programmable tilt and height adjustment system.

Derek LaChance, digital product manager at Inkcups, says: “Until now, there were always some products that traditional cylindrical inkjet printers just couldn’t accommodate. It wasn’t possible to achieve striking visuals on vessels with several different diameters and slants, but the launch of the Helix High Throw completely changes that, expanding the capabilities of the Helix range far beyond drinkware.

“This is something customers have been asking for since we first debuted our High Throw technology in 2025, so there’s no doubt that it’s going to be a powerful addition to many production environments.”

Sarah Hall, program manager for Cylinder Printers at Inkcups, adds: “What’s especially exciting is the ability to decorate larger, uniquely shaped items such as plant pots and footballs, opening the door to entirely new application possibilities. It’s inspiring to push beyond the traditional limits of helical printing, and we’re looking forward to seeing the creative ways our customers use the Helix High Throw to expand and diversify their offerings.”

Two different ink configurations are possible with the Helix High Throw, enabling businesses to adapt as their needs change. The six-colour configuration (WW+CK+MY+LcLm+VV) adds light cyan and light magenta to the standard four-color process to help with better skin tones and smoother gradients. Spot varnish is also available on the press in order to add special effects to products.