A moving head inkjet printer provides an option for manufacturers to print on multiple items, or multiple positions of the same item, using just a single printer, instead of installing individual printers at each location where printing occurs.
This is accomplished by having the print head move along a fixed rail, and fire ink at pre-determined locations. This type is ideal for large, stable, irregularly shaped, or frequently changing items.
What Is a Moving Head Inkjet Printer?
Also called traversing inkjet system, this is a form of industrial coder that has a print head which travels either horizontally or vertically across the print area. Core components of this system include: a carriage, linear rail, motor, encoder, sensors, and motion controller.
The operation of the traversing inkjet system is completely digital, and does not involve physical contact with the item being printed upon. Microscopic nozzles eject droplets of ink in rapid succession as the carriage moves.
In the inkjet printer mechanism, encoders synchronize the position of the carriage and the ejection of ink droplets, thereby ensuring that each dot of ink is deposited exactly where it needs to go.
Why Is a Moving Head Inkjet Printer So Important to Industrial Printing?
Industrial lines often have a variety of different sized packages, SKUs, and code positions. A traversing system allows operators to program new print locations without physically moving equipment or adding additional coding stations.
Based on DSI’s field experience, this technology performs well on multi-position lines. Our customers have successfully implemented this technology in various industries including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage packaging, etc.
How Does a Moving Head Inkjet Printer Work?
The print head is mounted on a carriage that is driven by a servo or stepper motor along a rail. An encoder reports the current position of the carriage, enabling the controller to synchronize the ejection of ink droplets with the movement of the carriage.
There are two primary methods of creating droplets in inkjet systems: thermal and piezoelectric. Thermal print heads utilize steam bubbles to create droplets, while piezoelectric print heads deform a crystal to create pressure to create droplets.
To perform optimally, the inkjet printing system must be matched to the ink chemistry, substrate compatibility, resolution, and drying requirements. In addition to matching these parameters, stable rails, low vibration, clean nozzles, and appropriate print distance are critical.
For comparative purposes, below are some key differences between fixed head and moving head inkjet printing setups:
| Production Conditions | Fixed Head Setup | Moving Head Setup |
| One consistent print point | Simple and efficient | Usually unnecessary |
| Wide product or several positions | May need multiple heads | One head covers more area |
| Frequent format changes | Manual repositioning may be needed | Positions can be reprogrammed |
| Very high continuous speed | Often preferable | Travel cycle must be checked |
Applications of Moving Head Inkjet Printers in Various Industries
Where coverage and positional flexibility are desired, industrial inkjet provides solutions for coding, identification and traceability across numerous industries, as shown below
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Food & Beverage
Print dates, batch codes and other line data onto cartons, trays, multi-lane packaging, etc. Ink must adhere to the surface and dry quickly enough for handling.
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Building Materials
Print grades, dimensions and production data onto wide boards, tiles, panels and insulation products at different points.
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Wood Processing
Place codes or logos across varying widths and textures of timber, plywood, laminate and furniture panels.
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Pipe & Cable Manufacturing
Mark stationary pipe sections, coils or grouped components at programmed locations. Curved surfaces may require fixtures or controlled print distances.
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Metal Fabrication
Apply serial numbers or job codes to sheets, plates and frames provided adhesion withstands oil, abrasion and downstream processes.
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Packaging & Logistics
Mark several cartons, pallet positions or packaging lanes with variable text, barcodes and QR codes for traceability.
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Automotive Components
Apply production data or serial numbers to different sized components supporting mixed model production and variable dimensions.
Materials Suitable for Moving Head Inkjet Printing
There is considerable variability among suitable materials for this system, including paper, cartons, plastics, films, metal, wood, glass, ceramics, pipes, cables and composites. However, material selection depends upon porosity, surface energy, texture, curing and durability requirements.
Absorbent materials may be able to utilize water-based or pigment inks, while plastics and metals typically require solvent-based or UV-curable formulations. Post-treatment cleaning or curing may also be required.
Advantages of Moving Head Inkjet Printers
Significant advantages include:
- Greater coverage
- Fewer coding stations
- Flexible placement
- Simplified sku changes
- Centralized job control
- Reduced duplication of consumables
However, the trade-offs include moving parts, travel clearance, and maintenance. Rails, alignment, drives, sensors, and encoders need regular inspection. And at extreme speeds, fixed heads may be more productive, so cycle time should be tested.
If you wish to upgrade your company’s systems, DSI (Dynamic Synergy International) offers moving head inkjet printer solutions for your industry. Click here to view available products!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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How does a traversing printer differ from a fixed-head printer?
A fixed-head printer remains stationary while the item being printed upon moves beneath it. A traversing-head printer travels across the print area providing greater coverage and multiple programmed locations.
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Can a single system replace several printers?
Yes, assuming one head can complete all necessary prints within the required production cycle.
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How is accuracy maintained as the head moves?
Encoders, controlled motors, sensors, and synchronized firing maintain alignment; stable rails limit vibration.
