Industrial coding and marking encompasses techniques that enable permanent or temporary printing of information on different surfaces such as plastic, metal and glass. These techniques are widely used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, such as printing expiration dates, batch numbers, barcodes and QR codes. Determining the most appropriate coding method on different materials such as plastic, metal and glass requires taking into account factors such as permanence, readability and cost.
Coding Techniques on Plastic
Plastic materials are used in many industries due to their advantages such as flexibility, lightness and durability. The main coding techniques used on plastic surfaces are as follows:
1. Inkjet Coding
Inkjet technology is widely used for printing serial numbers, date stamps and barcodes on plastic packaging. Its advantages include:
- Fast and uninterrupted printing
- Low cost
- Different color and ink options
2. Laser Marking
Permanent and non-erodible codes can be engraved on plastic surfaces with a laser. Advantages of this method:
- Long-lasting and durable printing
- High contrast and clear marking
- Environmentally friendly application without the use of chemicals
3. Thermal Transfer Printing (TTO)
It is widely used on plastic films and packaging. The advantages of thermal transfer printing are:
- High print quality
- Durable and water-resistant print
- Fast print capacity
Coding Techniques on Metal
The most suitable method for coding and marking on metal surfaces is determined by the type of metal used and the requirements of the application.
1. Laser Marking
Laser engraving creates permanent and durable coding on metals. It can be applied to metals such as stainless steel, aluminum and titanium in industrial products. Advantages:
- High precision
- Non-wearing print
- No extra consumables required
2. Dot Peen Marking
It allows a permanent mark to be left on the metal surface by creating micro dots with mechanical impacts. Generally used in the automotive and aerospace industries. Advantages
- Deep and robust coding
- High traceability
- Applicable to different types of metals
3. Electro-Chemical Marking
It makes a permanent marking on the metal surface by electrical and chemical reactions. Used on materials such as stainless steel and aluminum. Advantages
- Marking with an aesthetic look
- Permanent and durable marking
- Fast application time
Coding Techniques on Glass
When coding on glass surfaces, the properties of glass such as transparency and fragility must be taken into account. Here are the most common methods:
1. Laser Marking
Laser technology can make permanent marking without damaging the glass. Advantages:
- Permanent and clear printing
- Environmentally friendly marking without chemicals
- Security and anti-counterfeiting applications
2. Sandblasting
This method, in which sand particles are impacted onto the glass surface with high pressure, is used in decorative and industrial applications. Advantages
- Aesthetic and sophisticated look
- Permanent and non-abrasive marking
- Different designs can be applied
3. Inkjet Coding
Inkjet printing on glass surfaces using special UV-resistant inks can be applied temporarily or permanently. Advantages
- High print speed
- Flexibility and color options
- Low cost
Coding techniques used on plastic, metal and glass surfaces offer different advantages according to sector needs. Methods such as laser marking, inkjet coding and thermal transfer printing are critical for product tracking and brand awareness. Choosing the right coding technology increases the efficiency of businesses and the quality of their products.
