The technologies that businesses use in their production processes play an important role in ensuring the traceability and marketability of their products. Two of these technologies are inkjet coding and laser marking. Both technologies have their advantages and disadvantages, but in this article we will focus on the cost differences between inkjet coding and laser marking. This way, businesses can make more informed decisions about which technology they should choose.
Inkjet Coding Technology
Inkjet coding is one of the most widely used methods of industrial printing machines. This technology performs coding, labeling and marking processes on products using liquid ink. Inkjet machines are generally devices that can operate at high speed, print on a wide variety of surfaces and have high flexibility.
Costs of Inkjet Coding
The initial costs of inkjet coding machines are usually medium. These machines can be in different price ranges depending on the type of ink they will use. The main cost items to be considered in inkjet coding are as follows:
-
Initial Cost: The initial cost of inkjet machines varies depending on the technology used and production capacity. They are generally available at prices ranging from 5.000 TL to 50.000 TL.
-
Ink Costs: Inks used in inkjet machines are consumables that need to be constantly renewed according to the production volume. The cost of these inks varies depending on the number of characters printed per minute and the type of ink used.
-
Maintenance and Service: Inkjet machines require regular maintenance. The nozzles on the machines need to be cleaned and ink levels need to be checked. Therefore, it is important to consider regular maintenance and repair costs.
-
Energy Consumption: Although inkjet machines generally have low energy consumption, it is necessary to take into account the energy costs of continuously running machines.
Advantages of Inkjet Coding
- High Speed and Flexibility: Inkjet machines can operate easily on fast production lines and print on a wide variety of substrates.
- Low Initial Cost: Compared to other branding technologies, start-up costs are lower.
- Easy Operation and Compatibility: Most inkjet machines can work harmoniously on different types of surfaces.
Laser Marking Technology
Laser marking is the process of leaving permanent marks on material using high-intensity laser beams. This technology is commonly used to create permanent marks on metal, plastic, glass and other hard surfaces.
Costs of Laser Marking
The initial costs of laser marking technology can be higher than inkjet coding machines. However, the long-term costs of laser marking machines tend to be lower.
-
Initial Cost: Prices of laser marking machines generally range between 30,000 TL and 200,000 TL, depending on the type of laser used (CO2, fiber, etc.) and production capacity.
-
Energy Consumption: Laser marking machines can have high energy consumption. However, even though modern laser machines are energy efficient, energy consumption during continuous operation can be a significant cost item.
-
Maintenance and Service: Laser machines generally require minimal maintenance. However, periodic maintenance and adjustment is necessary for the laser beams to function properly. This maintenance is less frequent compared to inkjet coding.
-
Laser Spare Parts Costs: Laser machines are long-lasting, but laser heads have a specific lifespan and these parts must be replaced over time. Spare parts costs can be a significant cost factor in the long run.
Advantages of Laser Marking
- High Quality and Permanent Marking: Laser marking produces much more permanent and sharp marks. This ensures that products last longer.
- Low Processing Time: Laser marking machines can work very quickly, especially on metal and hard surfaces.
- Low Consumables Cost: Laser marking does not require ink or other consumables, which reduces costs in the long run.
Cost Differences Between Inkjet Coding and Laser Marking
Start-up Cost: Laser marking machines are more expensive than inkjet coding machines. High-tech laser machines can often be 10 times more expensive.
Process Costs: Inkjet coding can be more expensive than laser marking due to high ink consumption. Laser marking, on the other hand, may be more economical in the long run as it does not require consumables.
Maintenance Costs: Laser marking machines generally require less maintenance, while inkjet machines require regular maintenance and ink replacement.
Energy Costs: Inkjet machines generally consume less energy than laser machines, but more efficient models of laser machines are also available.
Conclusion
Inkjet coding and laser marking are both technologies that offer different advantages and cost structures. Which technology to choose will depend on the production capacity, product type, speed requirements and budget of the business. If long-term permanence and low consumable costs are the priority, laser marking may be a more suitable option. However, for businesses looking for lower initial costs and flexibility, inkjet coding may be more ideal.
