A lot code printer is a machine used in production lines to print important information such as production dates, batch numbers, or other product identifiers on packaging or products.
This is essential as it enables product traceability, ensures quality, and supports compliance with regulations. From food to pharmaceuticals, lot codes maintain product transparency and safety, an absolute necessity in modern manufacturing..
Use Cases in Modern Manufacturing
Lot code printers are typically used to print specific information related to production goods, including food, beverages, cleaning products, electronics, and more. In fast-moving production lines, these codes ensure that each unit has accurate traceability, allowing recalls or audits to run quickly and efficiently.
Lot Code vs Serial vs Batch Codes
Both codes serve the same purpose: to track products. The difference is that a lot code identifies a group of products that share the same characteristics.
Meanwhile, a batch code refers to a specific production process, which usually includes detailed information such as production time, production date, and raw materials used.
Choosing the Right Technology: CIJ vs TIJ vs Laser
Basically, there are three main technologies for lot code printing: Continuous Inkjet (CIJ), Thermal Inkjet (TIJ), and Laser. Each has its own advantages and limitations.
Pros & Cons of Each Technology
Before deciding, it is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each technology. This way, you can align your choice with production scale, surface type, and available budget.
CIJ (Continuous Inkjet) works well on many surfaces (plastic, metal, carton), very fast, ideal for high-volume production lines, but requires ink and regular maintenance.
TIJ (Thermal Inkjet) provides high resolution for small text and barcodes, is relatively cheaper, cleaner, and easy to use, but has limited speed and is less suitable for non-porous surfaces.
Laser printing delivers permanent and durable results, requires no ink, and has low operating costs making it ideal for long-lasting codes on hard products. However, it involves a high initial investment and requires specific safety measures.
Compatibility with Surface & Production Speed
CIJ works well on various surfaces plastic, metal, glass, carton and can also be used on curved surfaces like bottles. Laser is ideal for hard, non-porous surfaces such as PET bottles, glass, or metal, delivering permanent markings.
Meanwhile, TIJ is more effective on cartons or porous paper. In terms of speed, CIJ can reach 300–500 m/min, TIJ up to 300 m/min, and lasers up to 2000 cps, depending on the machine configuration.
Key Buying Considerations
Choosing a printer is not only about technology, you must also consider other important factors to make the investment worthwhile.
Print Quality, Integration, and Ink Type
TIJ offers high resolution and easy integration, making it ideal for detailed prints such as barcodes or QR codes. CIJ is typically used for simple text and graphics at high speed.
Laser excels in sharpness and fade resistance, making it suitable for permanent labels. Ink type also plays an important role, such as UV-based ink or food-grade ink that is safe for the food and beverage industry.
Maintenance and Cost of Ownership
CIJ and TIJ require regular maintenance, such as nozzle cleaning and ink refilling. CIJ, in particular, is prone to drying if left idle for long periods, while TIJ is relatively cleaner and more practical.
Laser, though expensive upfront, requires almost no maintenance and uses no ink, reducing long-term operating costs.
DSI Printer Recommendations for Lot Code Printing
To help you choose the right solution, here are DSI Printer’s recommendations:
TIJ for Simple, High-Resolution Marking
TIJ is ideal for applications that require high-resolution printing in small areas at moderate speed. It is suitable for barcodes or small text with fine detail, without requiring high volumes. It’s perfect for flexible lines and low-consumption applications, practical and clean.
CIJ for High-Speed, Industrial-Scale Operations
If your production line operates at high speed and large scale such as in food and beverage, automotive, or pharmaceuticals CIJ is the best choice. With fast output, broad compatibility across various substrates, and multi-line printing capability, CIJ ensures operational efficiency.
In conclusion, choosing a lot of code printers is not a simple decision. Many factors must be considered, including the technology used, surface compatibility, resolution requirements, and long-term maintenance costs.
Each option CIJ, TIJ, or Laser has its own role and delivers optimal results when aligned with the characteristics of your production line.
To ensure your production line runs efficiently, complies with regulations, and remains competitive, now is the time to consider solutions from DSI Printer.
With the support of an expert team, you can receive a free consultation and see firsthand how CIJ and TIJ technologies can be integrated into your production system. Don’t wait until coding issues affect your brand reputation, take proactive steps today and find the best lot code printer for your business needs here.
Read more article about: Why High-Speed Production Lines Need Continuous Inkjet Technology.
References:
- https://www.linxglobal.com/en/solutions/coding-types/batch-coding/
- https://www.bentsaishop.com/lot-coding-printers
- https://inkjetinc.com/blogs/default-blog/resources-inkjet-lot-code-printer-ij
- https://www.leadtech.ltd/all-products/lot-code-printer.html
- https://inkjetinc.com/blogs/default-blog/resources-inkjet-printer-speed-ij?utm_source=chatgpt.com
