Alphanumeric code marking, also known as alphameric coding, generated using Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) and Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) printing technologies, offers a powerful solution for product identification and traceability.
With the clear code results embedded by the technologies, businesses can ensure every product is easily tracked at every stage from production to the distribution phase. From food and beverage packaging to pharmaceuticals and electronics, alphanumeric codes are now a standard requirement to meet both local and international traceability regulations.
So, how exactly do these technologies work for code marking?
Explore the following article with us to find out the answers along with a profound explanation of why adopting the technologies has become a strategic necessity nowadays!
By the end of this guide, you will also discover which technology CIJ or TIJ best fits your business needs in terms of cost, maintenance, and printing quality.
Why Alphanumeric Code Marking is Essential
Think of it like a serial number only more versatile because it includes both letters and numbers, creating unique identifiers for each product. It provides a reliable solution for enhancing product traceability and improving consumer safety. Here are the complete explanations of its importance.
Product Traceability & Compliance
The combination of letters and numbers in alphanumeric marking creates unique codes that can be used to track a product’s journey.
This becomes a crucial task, especially for industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and automotive, where compliance with strict regulations is non-negotiable.
By marking products with an alphanumeric code, manufacturers can effectively monitor product movement and ensure compliance with required standards.
Improved Inventory Management
Beyond their impact on product traceability, alphanumeric codes can also be used for inventory management.
The unique codes embedded on products are extremely useful to monitor and track the stock levels. It can also help you in optimizing supply chain and warehouse operations. For example, manufacturers can quickly identify production batches, manage product recalls more efficiently, and reduce overstocking issues.
Consumer Safety & Trust
With growing concerns about counterfeit or unsafe products especially in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food sectors alphanumeric marking enables consumers to verify authenticity and safety.
When consumers can access crucial information through the codes, it increases their trust in the brands and ultimately increases the brands’ reputation as well.
Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) vs. Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) for Alphanumeric Code Marking
After exploring the importance of alphanumeric marking, it is also essential to learn what technologies are available to help you with the coding.
Continuous and thermal inkjet become two leading options in this case, with each offering their own strengths. Below is a clear comparison between CIJ and TIJ to help you decide.
Continuous Inkjet (CIJ)
CIJ printers are well-known for their high-speed printing capabilities. They work by using a continuous flow of ink through a printhead that is sprayed to the products’ surface, creating alphanumeric codes. Many manufacturing sectors, such as food and beverage, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, rely on CIJ printers to ensure precise date coding, batch numbering, and labeling that comply with industry regulations.
CIJ also has a great versatility that can print on numerous kinds of materials, including corrugated cardboard, plastics, and metals. They are also highly durable, capable of handling large production volumes with minimal downtime or interruptions.
Read About: How Inkjet Printing is Boosting Profits for Corrugated Converters?
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ)
TIJ printers, on the other hand, are popular for their ability to produce high-resolution prints. Thanks to this precision, TIJ is perfect for applications that require fine details, such as printing small fonts, QR codes, or barcodes.
It works by using heat to create the ink droplets through the printhead. When the inks are heated up, they will form droplets on the product surfaces, and eventually create alphanumeric codes.
Unlike CIJ, TIJ typically requires minimal maintenance as they use replaceable ink cartridges. Also, they are considered more affordable in terms of costs, which is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses.
Choosing the Right Printer for Your Application
From production volume to overall operational cost, the following factors are required to be included into your consideration while choosing the right technology for alphanumeric code marking.
Let’s now explore detailed recommendations to help you choose the right printer for your specific needs.
Estimate Your Production Lines
The first step is to assess your production volume requirements. For high-speed production, CIJ may be a better choice, as it is built for high-speed operation.
However, if your production lines operate at medium speed, TIJ is often the more suitable option as it is designed for such applications.
Consider Print Quality Requirements
The quality of alphanumeric codes is important for readability, that’s why if high-quality print becomes your priority, TIJ should be on your number one list.
However, if legibility becomes your primary concern, CIJ can give you the best results on various kinds of surfaces. This makes CIJ ideal for industries printing on curved, rough, or flexible packaging materials where durability matters more than aesthetics.
Think about Required Types of Materials
Different printers likely handle products’ surfaces differently. Since CIJ works on almost any surface including metal, glass, plastic, and cardboard it is often the better solution for businesses that require high flexibility.
In contrast, TIJ is typically better suited for flat surfaces without complex shapes.
Cost and Maintenance Considerations
Generally, CIJ has a higher initial cost due to its complex system and specialised components, but it is a worthwhile investment for high-volume production lines.
As for TIJ, it offers a cost-effective solution with low upfront investment and minimal maintenance, making it perfect for small to medium-sized businesses.
Applications of Alphanumeric Code Marking
Alphanumeric codes are widely used across industries, with their ultimate purpose not limited to product traceability.
It is also used for quality control, inventory management, and product identification for sectors like manufacturing, automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. In fact, many regulatory bodies such as BPOM in Indonesia and FDA in the US require clear product coding for traceability, making alphanumeric marking not just beneficial but mandatory in some industries.
Read About: The Critical Role of Labeling in Life Sciences: Innovations and Best Practices
Optimize Your Code Marking Results with Inkjet Printers!
Alphanumeric code marking powered by CIJ and TIJ provides businesses with clear and crisp print results for greater operational success.
By the ability to produce high-resolution prints, TIJ becomes an ideal choice and solution for industries where compliance with regulatory standards is the top priority.
Now, it’s your turn to elevate your alphanumeric code results with the right technology. Explore our complete list of Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) printers here or consult with our team for tailored Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) solutions.
References
https://www.technomark-marking.com/en/alphanumeric/
https://www.sic-marking.com/marking-type/alphanumeric/
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