Case Study: How the Ricoh Customer Experience Center Elevated Print Quality with Ikeuchi Humidification
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Case Study: State Printing & Graphics Shop – Santa Fe, NM
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Background
The State Printing & Graphics Shop (SP&G) in Santa Fe, New Mexico, operates in an environment where relative humidity can drop to around 10%. Such conditions can lead to static buildup, paper shrinkage, and occasional misfeeds, which can affect print quality and efficiency.
SP&G’s two Ricoh digital presses are engineered for high performance, but like all precision print equipment, they benefit from operating in a stable environment with adequate humidity levels.
Challenge
Before upgrading their humidification system, SP&G relied on two traditional industrial humidifiers that required filling multiple water jugs twice a day. Even with this effort, room humidity rarely reached above 15%. The process was time-consuming, and conditions remained below the ideal range for optimal printing.
Solution
At an industry tradeshow in Nevada, SP&G Director Rob Newlin discovered the AKIMist® “E” Dry Fog Humidification System. He was drawn to its ability to deliver precise humidity control with ultra-fine, non-wetting fog.
The system was installed by SP&G’s Facilities Management Division and integrated with an existing reverse osmosis and water softening process for consistent water quality.
Results
Since the installation, the press room now maintains 50–55% relative humidity—well within the optimal range for print operations. This has reduced environmental issues affecting production and eliminated the need for daily manual refilling.
“Instead of the press room running at 10 percent humidity, it is now running at 50 percent, which is going to help the print quality and the longevity of the cartridge inside the press.”
-Rob Newlin, Director, State Printing
System Overview
- System Installed: AKIMist® “E” Dry Fog Humidification
- Application: Digital press room humidity control
- Target Humidity: 50–55% RH
- Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Installed By: Facilities Management Division, State of New Mexico
About the AKIMist®E
The AKIMist® “E” delivers precise humidity control using ultra-fine Dry Fog that raises humidity without wetting surfaces. Ideal for printing environments, it helps reduce static, improve paper handling, and protect equipment—all with minimal maintenance.
Read More
SP&G’s full testimonial and detailed experience can be found on their website:
NM General Services Department
You can also view their published PDF here:
Fog Humidifier Keeps State Printing’s Presses Rolling Smoothly
A Thank You from The Fog Engineers at Ikeuchi USA
We extend our sincere thanks to the State Printing & Graphics Shop team for sharing their experience and allowing us to highlight their success. It’s a privilege to support their work in delivering high-quality printing for the State of New Mexico.
Access the Ikeuchi USA LinkedIn Newsletter Article Here:
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