Even with improvements in the inkjet world on printing consistency, resolution and barcode readability, newer solutions are not always on par with some classic methods of labeling. Below are four instances where implementing a printer and label system may be the best option for you — helping you save time and money.
Some end-users require an “A” or “B” grade on all barcodes that enter their building or warehouse. If a barcode needs to be on a brown corrugated box and requires an “A” or “B” grade, then a label is the only solution for that prospect. Inkjet barcodes on brown or kraft cases will scan at a grade “C” level due to the contrast (dark to light) between the corrugated surface and the ink. The final grade for a barcode is only as high as its lowest variable. Therefore, it could have all grade “A” variables except for one, and it would receive a “C” grade. Additionally, a white label produces a high contrast barcode at a higher resolution, eliminating lower barcode grades.
A barcode that requires very narrow bars and spaces is difficult for an inkjet system to produce consistently. Since the inkjet system is printing directly on the carton, a mishandled product can lead to unreadable code. Thermal transfer printers, however, can produce 300 dpi barcodes and produce much denser bars than most inkjet systems. Because the labels are printed inside the printer and then applied to the case, product handling plays a smaller role in the ultimate readability of the code.
1. Glossy, decorative cases or clay-coated chipboard
Most high resolution, large-character inkjet systems do not use inks that will dry on these types of surfaces. Some do, but the capital is more, and the consumable difference between ink and labels is less. These substrates are best suited for a printer or applicator.
2. Specific code location
Needing a code on the top, bottom, front or back of a case is another instance of needing a printer or applicator and label. Some inkjet systems can print in a downward or upward orientation, but usually with significant limitations. Having to print on the front or back of a case as it moves down a conveyor, rules out an inkjet system as the process would require additional product handling. Printer and applicators have no problem applying labels to the front, side, front and side, side and back, back, top, or any other part of a box. The more complex the application, line speeds and label size, the more placement accuracy and other factors will need to be addressed to make sure it will be a successful fit.
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Sometimes, direct printing onto your product rather than printing to a label is the best solution for your needs. In some applications, direct printing can save your organization 10 times the costs associated with label printing. So, what technology should you be using to print your barcodes and text?
We carry a variety of direct print options from names like Foxjet, Squid Ink, FlexPackPRO, and Paragon Labeling and can help you find the solution that’s right for you.
Foxjet ProSeries enhanced printhead includes the ink system, priming system, and print-engine that is capable of printing industry-compliant barcodes, graphics, and alphanumeric characters on corrugated cases and other porous materials at up to 2” (50 mm) in height.
Low Operator Intervention:
Reliability to the Extreme – Less Downtime:
Flexible – Easily Fits Your Application:
Marksman MATRIX is a flexible stand-alone industrial computer that is capable of operating up to four ProSeries 768 printheads for printing compliant barcodes, graphics, and alphanumeric characters on corrugated cases and other porous materials.
Continuous inkjet printers are small character printers that are easy to maintain and use. Any printer from the FoxJet Linx Series is fast, requires no product substrate contact, and can print on many different surfaces.
Strengths:
Keep in mind:
Ideal for use: Printing on small individual products like bottles and when portability is important to your printing needs.
LEARN MORELearn more about Foxjet Marking, Coding and Labeling Systems and see various printing technologies in action.
The three thermal inkjet printers from FoxJet’s SoloSeries have a wide range of abilities; including up to 10 lines of alphanumeric text as well as logos and 1D and 2D symbols.
Strengths:
Keep in mind:
Ideal for use: Lower volume applications and applications where the system will be idle for lengthy periods of time.
LEARN MOREThe 9x and 18x drop-on-demand printheads from the Valve InkJet systems can print 1/2”-2” text. It also allows you to quickly develop messages with built-in printing codes.
Strengths:
Keep in mind:
Ideal for use: When you need to get a code on a box or product and aren’t concerned about aesthetics.
The SQ-10 CO2 laser coding system from Squid Ink is ideal for high-speed food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and other primary coding applications. It allows for permanently marking onto paper, cardboard, plastic, and more.
Strengths:
Keep in mind: Scribing technology produces non-dot matrix, razor-sharp marks on a variety of substrates.
Ideal for use: When CIJ systems are not practical or when discrete coding ability for anti-counterfeiting and traceability is desired.
LEARN MOREThermal transfer overprinter products provide accurate printing with a wide range of fonts on many different materials. The FlexPackPro® 420 Series 107mm TTO Coders are rugged, reliable, and provides the industry’s lowest total cost of ownership.
Strengths:
Keep in mind: TTO options from FlexPackPro offer full-featured design software that comes standard with every model.
Ideal for use: In general applications when you wish to print variable barcodes, text, and graphics on flexible packaging film and labels.
LEARN MORELINC Systems carries a variety of industrial packaging products as well as marking, coding, and labeling supplies from top-rated brands. If you need help selecting the right printing technology or labeling systems for your needs, contact us today by calling 800-513-9918 or visit LINCsystems.com.
Ed Moss is the Vice President of Packaging Sales for LINC Systems.
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