PixelJet has launched its Aquablaze digital press for water-based packaging applications at Anuga FoodTech 2026 in Mumbai, targeting the growing demand for short-run and customized corrugated packaging.
Manoj Kumar Garg, vice-president – signage at PixelJet, said the Aquablaze uses HP printhead technology, with PixelJet developing the rest of the machine. PixelJet is an OEM partner of HP and is working with the technology company on the press.
“The printhead is from HP. The entire machine is our own,” Garg said.
The Aquablaze is designed primarily for printing on corrugated packaging, including pizza boxes and other corrugated applications. The machine uses water-based inks and supports both dye and pigment ink systems, with the same HP printhead technology compatible with both options.
According to Garg, the press is primarily aimed at corrugated box manufacturers looking for greater flexibility in short-run and customized production. Digital printing can offer an alternative to conventional processes such as screen printing, particularly where customers require customized designs or smaller production volumes.
“The main focus is short runs,” Garg said, adding that the market for this type of technology is growing globally and that PixelJet sees potential in India as well.
The company initially plans to focus on the domestic market before expanding its export activities. Garg said PixelJet expects to concentrate on India for at least the first two years before beginning a broader export push.
The launch comes as packaging converters increasingly look towards digital printing for shorter production runs and variable or customized packaging, reducing the need for conventional tooling and enabling greater flexibility in handling smaller orders.
Garg said PixelJet sees the Indian market as a promising opportunity for the Aquablaze, particularly in corrugated packaging applications where demand for customized and short-run production is increasing.
