Ricoh TH5241/Ricoh GH2220/Ricoh TH6310F/Ricoh MH5420 and MH5440/Ricoh MH5320 and MH5340 Printhead Specifications and Applications

Ricoh TH5241/Ricoh GH2220/Ricoh TH6310F/Ricoh MH5420 and MH5440/Ricoh MH5320 and MH5340 Printhead Specifications and Applications

Ricoh GH2220 Printhead Specifications and Applications

In today’s rapidly evolving inkjet printing industry, a wide variety of printhead brands and models compete fiercely in the market. However, one printhead has stood out thanks to its excellent performance and outstanding cost-effectiveness—the Ricoh GH2220 printhead.

The Ricoh GH2220 is a powerful industrial-grade printhead that has successfully challenged long-established players in the photo printing field, such as Epson printheads, as well as Seiko and Ricoh G4/G5 series printheads. The GH2220 not only retains the high precision traditionally associated with Epson printheads but also delivers the durability and stability expected of industrial printheads. More importantly, it comes at a far more affordable price than many competing alternatives.

 


 

Basic Specifications of the GH2220 Printhead

Item

GH2220 Specification

Method

Piston pusher with metallic diaphragm plate

Print Width

32.4 mm (1.28")

Number of nozzles

384

Nozzle spacing (Within a row)

1/150" (0.1693 mm) / row

Nozzle spacing (Row to row distance)

0.931 mm

Compatible ink

Aqueous, Solvent

Total printhead dimensions

61.8 (W) × 40.5 (D) × 23.3 (H) mm (2.43" × 1.59" × 0.92")

Weight

38 g

Max number of color inks

2 colors

Temperature control

No heater or thermistor

Life

30 billion actuations per nozzle

Jetting frequency

Binary mode: 30 kHz / Gray-scale: 24 kHz

Drop volume

Binary mode: 3–5 pl / Gray-scale: 21±2 pl (depending on the ink)

Viscosity range

8.0–5.5 mPa·s (@25°C)

Surface tension

25±5 mN/m (@23±2°C)

Maximum gray scale

4 levels (depends on ink characteristics)

Alignment mechanism

Frame-abutting



With this configuration, the GH2220 delivers performance fully comparable to many high-end printheads on the market.

 


 

Application Advantages of the GH2220 Printhead

◆ High Precision

In real-world applications, the GH2220 truly shines. Its droplet size can be as fine as 3 pl, making it one of the finest printheads currently available. This allows it to produce extremely delicate and sharp images, ideal for customers with stringent print quality requirements. For example, it can easily print very small text, such as 2-point characters (approximately 0.6 mm), which is a major advantage for the advertising industry.

◆ Excellent Durability

In addition to its high precision, the GH2220 is known for its durability. Ricoh printheads have long been recognized for their long service life and stable performance, and the GH2220 is no exception. With a lifespan of up to 30 billion firings, equivalent to roughly three years of use, it significantly reduces maintenance costs while improving operational efficiency.

◆ Outstanding Cost Performance

In terms of price, the GH2220 takes a highly competitive approach. Market prices typically range from RMB 3,000 to 7,000, which is extremely attractive for a high-end industrial printhead. Compared with similar Epson printheads, it is more affordable while maintaining superior performance and stability—one of the key reasons for its rapid popularity in the market.

◆ Positive Market Feedback

How does the GH2220 perform in real applications? User feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. In industries such as advertising and digital printing, users consistently report clear, sharp print results that meet high-quality demands. Its durability and stable operation also significantly reduce concerns during long-term use.

◆ Strong Compatibility

The GH2220 printhead offers excellent compatibility. It works seamlessly with a wide range of printers and ink types, including aqueous, solvent, and UV inks. This versatility expands its application scope beyond advertising and digital printing to other fields requiring high-precision printing.

 


 

Technology Background and Support

It is worth noting that Ricoh’s long-standing expertise and continuous innovation in printhead technology play a crucial role in the success of the GH2220. As a globally renowned printing equipment manufacturer, Ricoh has consistently invested in printhead R&D. The GH2220 inherits this strong technological foundation, resulting in a product that delivers superior performance and closely aligns with user needs.

Of course, the GH2220 is not without minor drawbacks. Some users have reported occasional issues during operation, but most can be resolved through parameter adjustments or component replacement and do not significantly affect overall usage. Moreover, as a well-established brand, Ricoh provides reliable after-sales service and timely technical support.

 


 

Conclusion

Overall, the Ricoh GH2220 printhead has earned widespread recognition in the market thanks to its excellent performance, high cost-effectiveness, and strong compatibility. It meets the demand for high-precision printing while reducing maintenance costs and operational burden. Looking ahead, the GH2220 is well-positioned to continue leveraging its advantages and deliver high-quality printing solutions to an even broader range of users.

 

Ricoh TH5241

 

RICOH TH5241 Printhead Specifications

Item

Specification

Method

Thin-film piezoelectric transducer with bend mode

Print Width

27.1 mm (1.06")

Number of Nozzles

1280 (320 nozzles/row × 4 rows, staggered)

Nozzle Resolution

600 npi (2 colors, 1 color) / 300 npi (4 colors)

Nozzle Spacing (Row to Row Distance)

A: 2.286 mm / B: 6.095 mm

Compatible Inks

UV, Solvent, Aqueous, Others

Total Printhead Dimensions

W: 52.7 mm / D: 45.8 mm / H: 55.4 mm

Weight

63 g

Max Number of Color Inks

4 colors

Operating Temperature Range

40 ℃

Temperature Control

Integrated thermistor, without heater

Firing Frequency

40 kHz (2 levels) / 24 kHz (4 levels)

Grayscale

4 levels

Drop Volume

3 pl (single drop) / 3–12 pl (max 21 pl) (multi drop)

Viscosity Range

7 mPa·s

Surface Tension

27 ± 5 mN/m

Note on Actuation Method

Thin-film piezoelectric transducer with bend mode” refers to a thin-film piezoelectric actuator that converts electrical energy into mechanical deformation (and vice versa).

  • The thin-film structure allows a very compact, flexible design suitable for small-scale applications.

  • “Bend mode” indicates that actuation occurs primarily through bending deformation when voltage is applied.
    This type of actuator is widely used in sensors, actuators, and MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems).

 


 

RICOH TH5241 Printhead Features

 

Technical Highlights

High-definition output enabled by Ricoh’s proprietary MEMS technology

By leveraging MEMS technology, Ricoh’s unique design makes the RICOH TH5241 a compact printhead with 1,280 nozzles arranged in four rows of 320 nozzles each. By ejecting extremely fine ink droplets, the printhead can achieve printing resolutions of up to 1,200 dpi.

Each row consists of two sets of 600 npi nozzles arranged in a staggered configuration at 300 npi. The RICOH TH5241 supports multi-drop technology, which controls droplet volume by merging multiple small droplets in flight before they land on the substrate, enabling true grayscale printing.

Broad Application Compatibility

The Ricoh TH5241 is compatible with UV, solvent, and aqueous inks, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

  • Signage and graphics

  • Labels

  • Textiles

  • Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing

This thin-film piezoelectric printhead delivers high resolution, high reliability, and excellent versatility, making it well-suited for demanding industrial inkjet applications.

 

 

Ricoh MH5420/5440


Specifications / External dimensions

Inkjet head with support for multiple nozzles and colors

Choose from two-color or four-color models to suit your application.

Item

MH5420

MH5440

Method

Piston pusher with metallic diaphragm plate

Same as MH5420

Print Width

54.1 mm (2.1")

Same as MH5420

Number of Nozzles

1,280 (4 × 320 channels), staggered

Same as MH5420

Nozzle Spacing (4 Color Printing)

1/150" (0.1693 mm)

Same as MH5420

Nozzle Spacing (Row to Row Distance)

0.55 mm

Same as MH5420

Nozzle Spacing (Upper & Lower Swath Distance)

11.81 mm

Same as MH5420

Compatible Ink

UV, Solvent, Aqueous, Others

Same as MH5420

Total Printhead Dimensions

89 (W) × 69 (D) × 24.51 (H) mm (3.5" × 2.7" × 1.0"), excluding cables & connectors

Same as MH5420

Weight

155 g

Same as MH5420

Max. Number of Color Inks

2 colors

4 colors

Operating Temperature Range

Up to 60 ℃

Same as MH5420

Temperature Control

Integrated heater and thermistor

Same as MH5420

Jetting Frequency

Binary mode: 30 kHz / Grey-scale mode: 20 kHz

Same as MH5420

Drop Volume

Binary mode: 7 pl / Grey-scale mode: 7–35 pl (depending on ink)

Same as MH5420

Viscosity Range

10–12 mPa·s

Same as MH5420

Surface Tension

28–35 mN/m

Same as MH5420

Grey-scale

4 levels

Same as MH5420

Total Length

248 mm (standard), including cables

Same as MH5420

Ink Port

Yes

Same as MH5420

Number of Ink Ports

2 × dual ports

4 × dual ports

Alignment Pin Direction

Front (standard)

Same as MH5420



Ricoh MH5420/5440: A Revolutionary Achievement in Inkjet Printing Technology

In today’s rapidly evolving technological era, inkjet printing technology continues to advance at a remarkable pace. Among numerous products on the market, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 inkjet printheads stand out thanks to their outstanding performance and innovative design, making them true leaders in the industry. Let us take a closer look at this revolutionary product and explore the technological appeal behind it.

 


 

▲ High Resolution & Grayscale Printing

The Ricoh MH5420/5440 inkjet printheads lead the market with their high-resolution and grayscale printing capabilities. They deliver print resolutions of up to 600 dpi—a seemingly simple number that reflects significant technological strength. High resolution means printed images and text are finer and clearer, meeting the demands of professional design, advertising, and everyday office applications.

At the same time, the MH5420/5440 supports grayscale printing, enabling richer tonal gradations and smoother color transitions. For users who pursue premium print quality, this capability is undoubtedly a major advantage.

 


 

▲ Exceptional Durability

Beyond high resolution and grayscale performance, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 printheads are known for their excellent durability and extended service life. Manufactured from stainless steel, they feature a robust structure that resists corrosion from various inks, ensuring long-term stable operation.

Each printhead is equipped with 1,280 nozzles, enabling variable multi-drop printing. This design not only improves printing efficiency but also significantly extends the lifespan of the printhead. For users who rely heavily on printing equipment, durability is a crucial consideration.

 


 

▲ High Ink Compatibility

In terms of ink compatibility, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 performs exceptionally well. A single printhead can jet up to four ink colors, providing strong support for superior grayscale rendering. In addition, the built-in heater allows the printhead to handle high-viscosity inks, greatly expanding ink application possibilities and offering users more flexibility.

This feature is especially valuable in applications that require special or high-viscosity inks, such as art printing and large-format printing.

 


 

▲ Optimized Structural Design

From a structural design perspective, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 fully considers real-world user needs. The separation of the ink path from the actuators (piezo elements) prevents direct ink contact with the actuators, reducing failure rates and improving overall stability and reliability.

This design also makes cleaning and maintenance easier and more convenient, saving users considerable time and effort.

 


 

▲ Wide Range of Applications

In practical applications, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 inkjet printheads demonstrate outstanding performance. For high-quality image output, they easily handle complex scenarios—whether detailed portraits, vivid landscapes, or intricate patterns—delivering impressive detail and color accuracy.

Text printing performance is equally strong, with sharp, clean edges and no blurring or ink bleeding. These advantages have made the MH5420/5440 widely used across advertising, printing, packaging, and many other industries.

 


 

▲ Strong Environmental Adaptability

It is also worth noting that the Ricoh MH5420/5440 printheads offer excellent environmental adaptability. Whether operating in high-temperature, humid, or dry environments, they maintain stable performance and deliver consistent print results.

This capability allows them to be widely used across the globe—from tropical regions to colder climates—making them highly versatile for international applications.

 


 

▲ Value and Industry Impact

As high-end inkjet printhead products, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 are not inexpensive. However, considering their exceptional performance, durability, and wide range of applications, the investment is clearly worthwhile. For users seeking premium print quality and long-term stable operation, choosing the MH5420/5440 is a wise decision.

In the era of self-media and digital communication, the speed and reach of information dissemination have increased dramatically. As outstanding representatives of inkjet printing technology, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 not only deliver high-quality printing experiences but also drive progress across the entire industry.

Through self-media platforms, users can more easily access the latest product updates and user feedback, enabling more informed purchasing decisions. At the same time, these platforms provide a broad stage for showcasing excellent products like the MH5420/5440, helping them quickly attract attention, expand market channels, and enhance brand awareness and influence.

 


 

Conclusion

In summary, the Ricoh MH5420/5440 inkjet printheads have become leading products in the inkjet printing field thanks to their outstanding performance, durability, and broad application range. In the era of self-media, they not only offer users exceptional print quality but also promote technological innovation and industry advancement.

With continuous technological progress and ongoing market development, the MH5420/5440 are expected to demonstrate even greater capabilities in the future, creating more value for users worldwide.

 

 

Ricoh MH5320 / MH5340

 

Ricoh Company, Ltd. developed and officially launched the RICOH MH5320/MH5340 industrial inkjet printheads in March 2019 as core components for printing systems.
In recent years, industrial printing markets related to signage and textile production have increasingly required high-mix, low-volume production and short delivery times. To meet these demands, inkjet printing—offering plate-free operation and flexible production—has been accelerating digital transformation. As a result, demand continues to grow for inkjet printheads that enable higher image quality and greater productivity.

 


 

RICOH MH5320 / MH5340 Specifications



Item

MH5320

MH5340

MH5320 Type A

Method

Piston pusher with metallic diaphragm plate

 

 

Print Width

54.1 mm (2.1")

 

 

Number of Nozzles

1,280 (4 × 320 channels), staggered

 

 

Nozzle Spacing (4 color printing)

1/150" (0.1693 mm)

 

 

Nozzle Spacing (Row to row distance)

A: 1.10 mm  B: 11.81 mm

 

 

Compatible Ink

UV, Solvent, Aqueous, Others

 

 

Total Printhead Dimensions

89 (W) × 68 (D) × 24.51 (H) mm (3.5" × 2.6" × 1.0")

 

 

Weight

228 g (including 45C cable)

 

 

Operating Temperature Range

60 ℃

 

 

Temperature Control

Integrated heater and thermistor

 

 

Jetting Frequency

50 kHz (3 levels) / 40 kHz (4 levels)

 

 

Grey-scale

4 levels

 

 

Drop Volume

Binary mode: 5 pl / Grey-scale mode: 5–15 pl

 

 

Viscosity Range

10–12 mPa·s

 

 

Surface Tension

28–35 mN/m

 

 

Max. Number of Color Inks

2 colors

4 colors

2 colors

Ink Port

Yes

Yes

No

Separately Sold Parts

MH5320 / MH5340 / MH5320 Type A dedicated cable

 


 


 

Key Features of RICOH MH5320 / MH5340

  1. High efficiency
    A minimized 5 pl droplet size combined with improved jetting accuracy delivers excellent print quality without visible graininess.

  2. Multiple grayscale levels
    Supports up to 4 grayscale levels, with a maximum grayscale firing frequency of 50 kHz, significantly improving productivity.

  3. High stability and durability
    Each printhead incorporates enhanced bonding technology to improve durability and long-term reliability.

  4. Wide ink compatibility
    Further improved compatibility with UV, solvent, and aqueous inks. The aqueous ink compatibility and service life of the MH5320/MH5340 are more than twice those of the previous MH5421/MH5441 models.

  5. High resolution and productivity
    Rapid digitalization demands greater flexibility and productivity, driving higher requirements for inkjet printheads. The MH5320/MH5340 enables high-resolution printing while supporting higher production throughput.

 

 

Ricoh TH6310F


Ricoh TH6310F Product Specifications Overview

Item

Specification

Method

Thin-film piezoelectric transducer with bend mode

Print Width

66.7 mm

Number of Nozzles

1,600 (8 × 100 channels × 2 Modules, staggered) (Net: 1,576)

Nozzle Resolution

600 npi

Nozzle Spacing (Row to Row Distance)

A: 0.677 mm (8 pixels of 600 npi)
B: 2.0909 mm (494 pixels of 600 npi)

Compatible Ink

Aqueous, UV, Solvent, Others

Total Printhead Dimensions

W: 104.6 mm
D: 44.9 mm
H: 104 mm

Weight

374 g

Max. Number of Color Inks

1 color

Operating Temperature Range

60 ℃

Temperature Control

Integrated thermistor, heater

Firing Frequency

80 kHz (2 levels)
60 kHz (3 levels)
40 kHz (4 levels)

Grayscale

4 levels

Drop Volume

5 pl (single drop)
5–18 pl (multi drop)

Viscosity Range

5.5 mPa·s

Surface Tension

31.6 ± 5 mN/m

Ink Circulation Structure

Yes

Separately Sold Parts

TH6310F dedicated cable


 

Key Features

Precise Droplet Placement Even with Large Print Gaps

In addition to high-precision jetting enabled by MEMS technology, the nozzle layout is designed to prevent airflow from affecting adjacent droplets and degrading image quality. This allows ink droplets to land stably on the substrate even with a wide print gap, ensuring high-quality image output.

Enhanced Printing Reliability via Ink Circulation

By circulating ink behind the nozzles, the risk of missing nozzles caused by nozzle drying or ink particle sedimentation is significantly reduced.

High Productivity at 600 dpi Multi-Drop Printing

The printhead supports ink ejection at 80 kHz using 5 pl binary drive, or 40 kHz using 5/10/18 pl multi-drop drive. It also achieves printing speeds exceeding 100 meters per minute at 600 dpi resolution.

Simplified Ink Supply Design

A single inlet and outlet ink tube connection enables a simplified ink delivery system, contributing to easier printer integration.


 

Ink Compatibility

The Ricoh TH6310F is compatible with all major ink types, including aqueous, UV, and solvent inks, making it suitable for a wide range of applications—from textiles and labels to corrugated cardboard.

This is a thin-film piezoelectric printhead offering high resolution, high reliability, and exceptional versatility.

 


 

Ricoh TH6310F: Opening a New Era in Industrial Inkjet Printing

In today’s rapidly evolving digital era, the industrial printing sector is undergoing a major technological transformation. On November 16, 2021, Ricoh Company, Ltd., a global leader in printing technology, officially launched a brand-new industrial inkjet printhead in Tokyo, Japan—the Ricoh TH6310F. This release represents another major breakthrough in Ricoh’s inkjet technology and introduces new possibilities to the industrial printing market.

 


 

Outstanding Technology and Core Advantages

The Ricoh TH6310F is the flagship model within Ricoh’s industrial inkjet printhead lineup. Its most notable feature is the adoption of advanced thin-film piezoelectric ceramic technology. Piezoelectric ceramics deform when voltage is applied, making them ideal for ink droplet ejection. The thin-film piezoelectric design enables higher jetting efficiency and superior print stability.

With a maximum firing frequency of 80 kHz, the Ricoh TH6310F delivers the highest productivity in Ricoh’s industrial inkjet printhead range, whether in single-pass or multi-pass printing. This high-frequency operation significantly boosts printing speed and overall production efficiency—an enormous advantage for high-throughput industrial environments.

In addition, the printhead incorporates high-precision MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology, enabling extremely accurate droplet placement and outstanding print quality. This precision is especially critical for applications requiring fine details and sharp text, such as digital textile printing and label printing.

 


 

Innovative Design for Diverse Requirements

Beyond technological advancements, the Ricoh TH6310F features an innovative structural design. Its unique nozzle configuration ensures high-quality printing even at large throw distances, which is essential when printing on uneven or textured substrates. Such high-gap printing is common in digital textile and industrial applications and places high demands on printhead performance—demands that the TH6310F successfully meets.

Additionally, the printhead includes an internal ink circulation system. By continuously circulating ink behind the nozzles, it significantly reduces risks such as nozzle drying, ink sedimentation, and jetting failures. This design enhances long-term reliability and extends printhead lifespan, reducing maintenance costs for users.

 


 

Wide Application Scope Supporting Industry Growth

As a high-performance industrial inkjet printhead, the Ricoh TH6310F supports a broad range of applications. Compatible with aqueous, UV, and solvent inks, it is suitable for textiles, labels, corrugated packaging, and even 3D printing.

In textile printing, its high precision and stability allow it to handle complex patterns with ease, delivering enhanced creativity and aesthetic quality. In label printing, its high-speed jetting capability significantly improves production efficiency to meet fast turnaround demands.

For corrugated packaging and 3D printing, the TH6310F’s large-gap printing capability and internal ink circulation system are particularly valuable. These applications demand exceptional precision and reliability—areas where the TH6310F excels.

 


 

The Ricoh Spirit: Leading the Future

The launch of the Ricoh TH6310F reflects Ricoh’s ongoing commitment to innovation in inkjet printing technology. Ricoh consistently prioritizes customer and societal needs, focusing not only on print quality and productivity but also on advancing the entire industrial printing ecosystem through innovation.

As industrial printing continues its digital transformation, demand for high-efficiency, high-precision, and high-stability printing solutions continues to grow. The Ricoh TH6310F meets these demands by increasing productivity, reducing maintenance costs, and expanding creative possibilities for users.

Notably, the TH6310F also marks an important step in Ricoh’s expansion of its industrial inkjet printhead portfolio. From the early GEN4 series to today’s TH6310F, Ricoh has maintained its leadership in inkjet technology. Looking ahead, Ricoh will continue introducing innovative products that bring new opportunities and advancements to the industrial printing market.

 


 

Conclusion

The launch of the Ricoh TH6310F represents another significant milestone in Ricoh’s inkjet printing journey. This high-performance industrial inkjet printhead enhances print quality and productivity while offering users greater flexibility and creative freedom. As it gains wider adoption across multiple industries, the Ricoh TH6310F is poised to become a key driving force in the future of industrial printing.

We look forward to seeing the continued innovation and breakthroughs Ricoh will bring in the years ahead.

 

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