There are four main types of inkjet coders and markers, each with their own unique pros depending on the application.
1. Small character inkjet coding (CIJ)
Small character continuous inkjet inkjet coding (CIJ) is a non-contact printing method in which electrically charged ink droplets are ejected from the printhead nozzle at 120,000 droplets per second. One of the biggest advantages of CIJ printing technology is speed – it keeps your line moving and your products always receive high quality codes. Since the ink droplets are only half the diameter of a human hair, CIJ printing technology delivers precise and reliable results.
2.Thermal inkjet coding (TIJ)
The thermal inkjet (TIJ) coder uses a cartridge containing an ink reservoir and a series of resistance elements. Each element is activated by an electric current that heats the ink in contact with the element. Since the time between each firing is only 100 millionths of a second and the technology’s throw distance is 1-6 mm (depending on the printhead technology used), TIJ technology is extremely fast and speeds up the printing process, which will print exceptional quality even at high line speed.
3. Large character inkjet coding (DOD)
Large character inkjet coding (DOD) inkjet printers are used for more demanding industrial applications such as printing on lumber and hardware, drywall, metals, concrete, plastics, foam and packaging products.
Each print head contains several individual valves (usually 7, 16 or 32) that print dots at regular intervals. Organized in a single column, the valves open and close independently to create “on demand” ink drops. As your product moves adjacent to the print head, it results in printed characters.
DOD printers can use a wide range of inks to mark many different substrates and, when the printheads are connected together, can make low or medium resolution marks at heights from 2.5mm to 128mm.
High resolution inkjet coding (HR)
High resolution inkjet printers have come a long way in the last decade. The latest generation uses piezoelectric technology to create super sharp images with print heights of up to 100mm from a single print head; these can be stacked together to achieve over 900mm. These printers are ideal when you need the highest quality printing on corrugated boxes and other porous materials.
BENEFITS OF INK CODES AND MARKERS
Whichever inkjet technology you choose, it brings significant benefits to your business processes and your bottom line:
Versatile Inkjet printers can code on a wide range of packaging sizes, shapes and substrates, from primary and secondary packaging to lumber and steel. They can print date codes, batch codes, text and even graphics. The best thing is to look for a printer designed for your specific application – because there is sure to be one!
Speed With a wide range of printing speeds, you can find an inkjet coder for even the fastest production line.
Low consumable cost: Depending on the machine, inkjet coders can be incredibly cost-effective.
Minimum maintenance and downtime: The highest quality inkjet machines are designed for minimal downtime and operator intervention, so your lines keep moving. DOD printers in particular are designed to withstand harsh environments with dust, shocks and vibrations.
Exceptional print quality: Thermal inkjet coders are renowned for their print quality, even at particularly high speeds. This comes down to superior print head technology that ensures exact drop placement.
Easy-to-use technology: Inkjet coders are easy to install and easy to use.
INK TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
Each type of inkjet printer is designed to achieve the best results in different applications. Here are some of the most common applications for each:
Areas where CIJ inkjet printers are used:
- Variable information such as product identification codes, batch numbers and use-by dates
- Graphics like your logo
- Small character text
- Primary packaging at high speeds
Areas where thermal inkjet coding machines are used:
- Cardboard coding
- Porous and non-porous packaging for food, beverages, household products and more
- Some can be used for industrial environments including wood marking and grading.
Areas where large character DOD inkjet coding machines are used:
- Secondary packaging and carton coding
- Product descriptions and batch numbers as well as fiber cartons and shrink wrap
- Hardware product marking, e.g. wood, metal products, steel pipes, roofing, concrete and plastic surfaces.
- 2D codes on various packaging materials
Areas where high resolution inkjet coding machines are used:
- Barcodes, graphics and text on primary and secondary packaging
- Special timber applications
