
As the consumer’s needs in the printing industry become more diverse, a greater demand for non-contact printing becomes essential. This is why most commercial printers are seeking ways to become more advanced.
Inkjet technology has reached a usable level at this stage, allowing commercial printers to equip themselves with cost-efficiency and high productivity. Most importantly, they do not compromise quality.
What is Non-Contact Printing?
It refers to a method of a device that can deliver materials such as ink to a certain substrate without any physical contact. This is different from traditional tools where direct contact is needed in transferring images.
Digital data is the key to how it works. It controls the deposition of ink, allowing customization and quick change without the use of any physical plates. One of the common non-contact printing technology that is famous is inkjet printing.
It forms text or images by delivering droplets onto the substrate. Individuals and industrial parties are both utilizing it for purposes like batch coding because of its precision and flexibility. Read About: The Best Food and Beverage Batch Coding Solution.
This means that thermal transfer makes it unique, a contrast from others where the contrast must occur between the object to be printed, the thermal print head, and the special ink film. This shapes a digital printing system.
Eventually, through a computer, it transfers the artwork to the printing unit. This allows different printing sequences in sequence and uncomplicated and fast changeovers.
Advantages of Inkjet Technology in Non-Contact Printing
In facilitating direct printing, this technology uses tiny ink droplets. This means that it doesn’t need to touch the printed surface. Because of this non-contact ability, it is now being known in a wider field for individual or industrial use.
The simple structure which is combined with the scanning mechanism put in the printhead, offers a benefit in reducing device cost. Additionally, they also do not require set-up time because there are no plates used.
Inkjet Printing vs. Laser Marking
Both inkjet printers and laser marking systems are great for product coding tasks that require high speed. Their application versatility, substrate compatibility, and reliable results prove that they are excellent parts for various materials, specialties, and sizes productions.
Inkjet printers and laser systems are now entering the market to deal with different operational needs. They are invented with specific substrates and applications in mind. They come in some categories that make it a good option for people based on their needs.
Most inkjet or non-contact printing devices are exclusively built for line printing production, while laser systems can mark stationary materials as well as moving substrates. For metal shops, automotive part makers, or aerospace component producers, stationary marking is beneficial.
It provides highly durable marking and long-lasting marking even though it doesn’t perform for a production line. Thus, the laser can be a marking option for those who want to mark stationary materials.
However, in case there’s no need for fast coding speed and stationary marking, neither inkjet printers nor laser systems have a place for investment. For your budget and coding process, Thermal Inkjet Printers will be a good option.
The question then arises of what option you need to choose when you need high-speed, precise coding to utilize in production line applications. Inkjet or laser? Mostly, it is due to cost factors. Read About: Durable Logos on Any Surface with This Thermal Inkjet Printer.
The cost difference is mainly due to some elements. When it comes to upfront costs, the CIJ system is cheaper than the laser system. For consumables cost, the laser will require new tubes after being used for 5 years.
However, since it doesn’t use solvent, ink, or other consumable materials, there is no consumable cost but only tube replacements. Move to CIJ, it will need frequent solvent and ink to operate.
Especially for extraordinarily high volumes, the owner may need to spend higher costs to fulfill these materials. It is in contrast with the laser system which is more economical in this area.
Future Trends in Non-Contact Inkjet Technology
Inkjet technology holds immense potential in the future for various industries. From increasing production speeds to improving quality, it will expand the application and enhance sustainability. See a complete list of thermal inkjet printers here.
The advanced technology integrated into non-contact printing was invented to improve the process of how a product can be labeled, packaged, and printed. Moreover, manufacturers are conducting more research and developments to support the technology.
With its innovation, inkjet printing has positioned itself as the proper choice for industrial use. Not only because of its superior print resolution to other machines but also its ease of use.
Non-contact printing provides a much more efficient process compared to outdated equipment. It will evolve and grow in the coming years to meet more needs of businesses and consumers.
References:
- https://www.ruhlamat.com/en/wiki/inkjet-printing-without-touch
- https://www.konicaminolta.com/global-en/inkjethead/technology/technology.html
- https://inkjetinc.com/blogs/default-blog/resources-laser-marking-vs-inkjet-printing