Types of Marking Technologies: Inkjet Marking

INKJET MARKING: A Comprehensive Overview

Inkjet marking stands as a prominent and versatile marking technology, revolutionizing the way industries imprint information and designs on various surfaces. A report by Business Research Insights shows that the global market for inkjet marking equipment is valued at USD 2815.3 million as of 2022 and it is expected to reach USD 4870.69 million by 2031. Unlike laser marking, inkjet marking employs the precision of ink droplets ejected from a nozzle onto a substrate. This non-contact method enables detailed and permanent markings with exceptional clarity and speed.

 

What Is Inkjet Marking?

1. Process Overview

Inkjet marking operates by propelling tiny droplets of ink onto a surface, forming characters, patterns, or codes. This technique can be categorized into two main types: Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) and Drop-on-Demand (DOD). CIJ involves a continuous stream of ink droplets, while DOD releases ink droplets selectively, responding to digital instructions.

2. Varied Applications

Inkjet marking finds extensive application across diverse industries including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, electronics, manufacturing and packaging. Its versatility allows for marking on materials such as plastics, metals, glass, and cardboard, catering to a wide array of product identification needs.

 

How Many Types of Inkjet Marking Are There?

1. Continuous Inkjet (CIJ)

CIJ technology ejects ink droplets continuously through a nozzle, creating a constant stream that breaks into droplets. By controlling the electric charge on these droplets, the printer directs them to the surface, forming characters or patterns. CIJ excels in high-speed marking and works well on irregular surfaces.

2. Drop-on-Demand (DOD)

DOD inkjet systems release ink droplets based on demand, forming precise marks by applying pressure to the ink. This method provides excellent accuracy, making it suitable for intricate designs, barcodes, and high-resolution printing.

3. Thermal Inkjet (TIJ)

TIJ printing technologies employs heating elements to vaporize ink, forming bubbles that propel droplets onto the surface. This method delivers exceptional print quality and is commonly used in small-scale and desktop printers. thermal inkjet printers offer versatility in printing on various surfaces, not just paper. They work seamlessly on cartons, wood, stainless steel, glass, and plastic. The result? Swift, precise, and immaculate prints.

 

Inkjet Marking Technologies and Equipment

1. Types of Inks

Inkjet printers utilize various inks, including solvent-based, water-based, UV-curable, and pigment-based, and even skin-safe inks. Each type of ink caters to specific applications based on durability, color vibrancy, and substrate compatibility.

2. Printer Configurations

Inkjet marking systems come in diverse configurations, from handheld devices to high-speed industrial printers. These systems can be integrated into production lines for seamless and automated marking.

3. Advantages of Inkjet Marking

1. High-speed printing capabilities
2. Versatility in marking on different materials
3. Cost-effectiveness in large-scale production
4. Ability to create high-resolution and detailed markings

 

Choosing the Right Marking Technology

Selecting the ideal marking technology depends on the material, required output quality, production volume, and budget. While inkjet marking offers exceptional versatility and speed, factors such as substrate compatibility and environmental considerations might favor other technologies.

 

Partnering for Your Marking Needs

At Bentsai Inkjet Coding Solutions, we specialize in providing cutting-edge handheld thermal inkjet marking solutions tailored to meet your unique requirements. Our team of experts assists in selecting the most suitable technology, ensuring precise and efficient marking solutions for your products.

Contact us today to explore how handheld inkjet marking can elevate your marking requirements and meet your industry-specific needs. Let's embark on a journey towards precise and efficient product identification.