Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Industrial Continuous Inkjet Printing vs. Laser Coding

Continuous inkjet printers use a non-contact method to create small droplets of ink that are then electrostatically charged and directed toward the target material. This creates a continuous stream of ink droplets that can be precisely controlled to form characters, codes, or logos on various surfaces. The resulting codes are completed without any flaws or smudging, making it ideal for high-speed production lines.

One of the major advantages of continuous inkjet printers is their ability to print on curved or uneven surfaces. This makes them highly versatile and suitable for a variety of industries, such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and more. Additionally, these printers can handle different types of inks and color options.

CIJs generally have lower entry costs compared to laser coder systems. CIJ printer options are available in low-speed, light-duty, and ultra-fast systems. The high-end options are ideal for meeting the highest production line speeds. Because they are more affordable, especially relatively small businesses with budget constraints will find CIJs accessible.

To ensure maximum product uptime and optimal performance, continuous inkjet printers require regular maintenance. Operating expenses include ink purchases and parts replacements, which can be especially high in conventional older systems. The printhead, for example, must be periodically cleaned and replaced due to its susceptibility to clogging.

KEYENCE offers new continuous industrial inkjet printers that provide automatic cleaning, self-troubleshooting options, and many other features that reduce operational costs.

Alternatively, laser coding requires relatively high initial equipment costs but offers cost savings through low maintenance requirements. For example, laser coders do not require consumable inks to print. Once installed, a laser only needs occasional calibration and a conducive environment to run efficiently.

First, industrial inkjet printer and laser coder technologies have significantly improved over the years. More recent systems are durable when appropriately used for suitable applications.

Issues usually arise with inkjet printers if they stay idle for a long time. When used infrequently, CIJ printer nozzles can clog and stop working altogether, requiring replacement. Because they don't utilize ink systems, laser coders can be left alone for some time and resume operations.

Additionally, when assessing durability, it's crucial to consider the specific printer in question. Factors such as enclosure design and overall build quality, along with the longevity of the printer's components, should be taken into account. Keep these considerations in mind while evaluating the durability of industrial inkjet printers vs laser coders.

Laser technology shines with its ability to produce sharp prints in high resolution. Laser coders can deliver fine details and crisp lines for a more visually appealing result on different surfaces, including plastic, metals, and glass.

In contrast, continuous inkjet printing provides good clarity in the printing of barcodes, alphanumeric characters, and simple graphics. While it may not offer the same level of detail as laser coding, CIJ printing is also legible and durable.

Continuous inkjet printers are renowned for their high-speed printing and reliability capabilities, making them well-suited for fast-paced production lines.

While laser coders may not match the speed of continuous inkjet models, their exceptional precision makes them perfect for intricate designs where speed is not the primary focus.