Danvers, Massachusetts—Inkcups has announced several upgrades to its Helix ONE benchtop cylindrical UV direct-to-object printer, expanding its capabilities and enhancing its appeal to small businesses and high-mix print operations.
Unveiled during FESPA 2025, the updates include Auto File barcode scanning, a new jettable primer, and support for smaller diameter items—furthering the printer’s flexibility in handling a variety of cylindrical objects.
Auto File & Barcode Scanning: Designed specifically for the Helix ONE®, this automation feature ensures fast, accurate job setup and smart part detection. Sequential file printing and instant artwork recall help streamline workflows and reduce errors—ideal for print-on-demand environments. The printer even pauses automatically if the barcode and artwork do not match.
New Jettable Primer: Inkcups has introduced SureBond Primer, developed for enhanced adhesion on powder-coated products. It’s applied in-line through an optional seventh printhead channel, making it easier to decorate powder-coated drinkware and other hard-to-print surfaces.
Smaller Diameter Capability: The Helix ONE can now accommodate cylindrical items as small as 33mm in diameter, down from the previous 60mm. This update allows decorators to print on shot glasses, spice jars, cosmetic bottles, and other narrow items, expanding product offerings beyond standard drinkware.
Launched in 2023, the Helix ONE brought Inkcups’ patented Helix® printing technology to a compact, cost-effective benchtop design. Offering full CMYKW and varnish printing, the machine supports both straight-walled and tapered cylindrical substrates, including glass bottles, plastic containers, and candle holders.
“The Helix ONE’s affordable price, compact design, and scalability make it an ideal solution for businesses looking to expand into printing directly onto cylindrical objects,” says Gregory Harwood, Director of Digital Product Management & Global Service at Inkcups. “These upgrades enhance the pre-press file preparation stage with auto file and barcode scanning, as well as allow for an even greater range of applications with our upgraded jettable primer and smaller diameter capability.”
With these additions, Inkcups continues to make cylindrical direct-to-object printing more accessible and productive for decorators of all sizes.
