Coding effectively on substrates such as cardboard and paper is especially important in the packaging and manufacturing industries. Choosing the right coding method is critical to ensure product traceability and facilitate labeling and quality control. In this article, we will examine the most suitable coding methods used on cardboard and paper and explain the advantages and uses of each.
1. Inkjet Coding
Inkjet coding is a widely used technology for printing information such as text, numbers or bar codes on cardboard and paper. This method works with the inkjet technique and can be easily applied to any surface, especially flat and smooth surfaces.
Advantages:
Provides fast and efficient printing.
A wide variety of characters and symbols can be typed.
Offers high resolution printing.
Capable of printing variable data (e.g. serial number or date information).
Areas of Use:
Cardboard boxes
Packaging
Industrial labeling
2. Thermal Transfer Printing
Thermal transfer printing is a method of transferring ink ribbons to the surface of paper or cardboard by means of heat. In this method, a special printing ribbon is used and applied to the surface to be printed through heat.
Advantages:
Durable and long-lasting prints are obtained.
It offers high quality printing.
Maintains readability even in challenging conditions.
Ideal for small text and barcodes.
Areas of Use:
Cardboard boxes
Labeling
Printing on packaging
3. Laser Coding
Laser coding is a method of affecting the material on a surface using laser light. With this method, the codes printed on the surface are engraved directly into the material by the heat of the laser. It is possible to achieve high quality and permanent results on paper and cardboard.
Advantages:
No chemicals required, environmentally friendly.
Provides long-term durability.
The printing process is textureless and clean.
It gives effective results on all kinds of surfaces.
Areas of Use:
Industrial packaging
Computer-aided labels
Barcode and serial numbers
4. Flexo Printing
Flexo printing is a technique used especially for large print areas. When printing using flexible plates, the ink is transferred to the printing surface. This method can be applied to paper and cardboard surfaces.
Advantages:
Can produce high volume printing.
Prints can be made in different colors.
It is a cost-effective and efficient printing solution.
Areas of Use:
Packaging production
Newspaper editions
Cardboard labeling
5. Hot Stamping
Hot stamping is the preferred technique for applying metallic foil, colored film or special designs using heat and pressure. This method is often used to achieve stylish and aesthetic looks.
Advantages:
Provides high quality and aesthetic prints.
Metallic and shiny effects can be achieved.
Although it works at low speed, it gives very effective results.
Areas of Use:
High-end packaging
Labeling
Design-oriented productions
6. Gravure Printing
Gravure printing is a technique for high-quality and precise prints. Fine lines and details on the surface are transferred onto cardboard or paper through pressure and ink. This method is particularly suitable for special designs.
Advantages:
It offers the possibility to print very fine details.
Provides in-depth and high quality prints.
Long lasting and durable.
Areas of Use:
Luxury packaging
Label prints
High quality designs
Choosing the appropriate coding methods on cardboard and paper depends on the needs of the business, production volume and design preferences. Fast and economical methods such as inkjet and thermal transfer printing are ideal for large production runs, while methods such as laser and hot stamping are ideal for more specialized and aesthetic prints. Each method is characterized by specific advantages and uses, so the right choice will improve quality and efficiency.
