DE
Consulting, Solutions, Products
A marking system for packaging machines is a key component of modern production lines. It enables reliable marking of packaging and ensures that legal requirements and quality standards are consistently met.
Why Marking Systems in Packaging Machines Are Essential
In modern production and packaging lines, product marking plays a central role. Batch numbers, expiration dates, serial numbers, or barcodes must be applied quickly, precisely, and reliably. A marking system for packaging machines ensures that this information is printed directly during the packaging process—without slowing down production speed.
TIJ marking systems (Thermal Inkjet) have proven in recent years to be a flexible, low-maintenance, high-resolution solution for packaging machines. They enable sharp, high-quality markings on a wide range of materials and can be easily integrated into existing packaging equipment.
Here, we will show which requirements marking systems must meet, what advantages TIJ systems offer, and in which applications they are particularly effective.
What Is a Marking System for Packaging Machines?
A marking system for packaging machines is an industrial printing solution directly integrated into a packaging line. While products are being packaged, the system automatically applies variable information onto packaging or labels.
Typical markings include:
- Expiration dates
- Production dates
- Batch numbers
- Serial numbers
- Barcodes and QR codes
- Logos or product information
These data are essential for traceability, quality control, and legal compliance.
Requirements for Modern Marking Systems
In packaging lines, marking systems must meet several technical requirements:
High Printing Speed
Packaging machines often operate at high cycle rates. The marking system must keep up without slowing the production line.
High Print Quality
High resolution is critical for barcodes and QR codes. Blurry codes may not be readable by scanners, leading to production errors.
Flexible Integration
Marking systems must be easily integrated into various types of packaging machines, for example:
- Flow-wrapping machines
- Cartoners
- Labelers
- Blister machines
- Flowpack lines
Reliability in Continuous Operation
Industrial production lines often run 24/7. A marking system must therefore be robust, low-maintenance, and durable.
TIJ Marking Systems: The Modern Solution for Packaging Machines
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) is a printing technology originally developed for office applications and adapted for industrial use. It uses replaceable ink cartridges and delivers high-resolution print images.
In TIJ systems, tiny heating pulses precisely eject ink onto the substrate, producing sharp print—even at very small font sizes.
Advantages of TIJ Marking Systems
TIJ marking systems offer several advantages compared to traditional marking technologies.
High Print Resolution
With resolutions up to 600 dpi, TIJ systems are ideal for:
- small fonts
- complex barcodes
- QR codes
- logos
Low-Maintenance Technology
Since the printheads are integrated into the ink cartridges, most maintenance is eliminated. Replacing a cartridge also installs a new printhead.
Easy Integration
TIJ marking systems are compact and easily integrated into existing packaging machines. Many systems provide standardized interfaces to:
- PLC controls
- Sensors
- Conveyor systems
Clean Printing Process
Unlike some other printing technologies, TIJ works without complex ink circulation or tubing. This reduces contamination and lowers maintenance requirements.
Typical Applications in Packaging Machines
TIJ marking systems are used across industries where packaging must be marked directly during production.
Food Industry
In food production, labeling is legally required. TIJ systems print, for example:
- Expiration dates
- Production times
- Batch numbers
Common materials: film packaging, cartons, paper labels.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Pharma requires strict traceability and labeling. TIJ systems are used for:
- Serial numbers
- DataMatrix codes
- Batch codes
Cosmetics and Consumer Goods
Even in cosmetics, packages must be clearly marked. TIJ systems enable high-quality marking on:
- Folding cartons
- Plastic packaging
- Labels
- Secondary and transport packaging
NasaJet® NJ-100
Handheld Printer
The affordable entry into the world of portable TIJ printing. Mark and label quickly and economically anywhere.
www.nasajet.com
NasaJet® NJ-500
Handheld Printer
With two 1-inch TIJ cartridges, the NasaJet® NJ-500 achieves print heights over 50 mm. Large font printing in a portable format.
www.nasajet.com
NasaJet® NJ-1000
Marking System
The NJ-1000 marking system is suitable for quickly upgrading existing production lines for simple labeling tasks.
www.nasajet.com
NasaJet® NJ-5000
Large Font Printer
The professional marking system for all requirements. Multiple print heads, parallel printing, and more.
www.nasajet.com
Yeacode Series 7
Marking System
Discover the Yeacode 7 Series, the marking system for the highest demands.
www.yeacode.de
Yeacode CISS
Continuous Ink Supply System
Ensures consistent and uninterrupted ink supply for high-volume printing.
www.yeacode.deIntegration of Marking Systems into Packaging Machines
Marking systems are typically integrated directly into the packaging line. Several factors play a key role:
Printhead Position
The printhead is mounted at a location where the package is guided stably. Common positions include:
- after packaging
- before labeling
- directly on the conveyor belt
Sensor Systems
A sensor detects each passing package and triggers the printing process. This ensures that every package is printed precisely in the correct position.
Software Control
Modern marking systems feature software for managing print data. Production data can be automatically imported from the machine control system.
Economic Advantages of Modern Marking Systems
Beyond technical performance, cost efficiency is a critical factor.
Reduced Downtime
Low-maintenance systems reduce unplanned machine stoppages and increase productivity.
Fast Format Changes
For lines with frequently changing products or packaging, print layouts can be quickly adapted.
Lower Operating Costs
Efficient ink usage and simple maintenance reduce long-term operating costs.
Future Outlook
With increasing digitalization and Industry 4.0 concepts, intelligent product marking is becoming more important. Modern marking systems are increasingly networked with production software, ERP systems, and track-and-trace solutions.
TIJ marking systems provide an ideal foundation, as they are flexible, precise, and easy to integrate.
Consulting as a Success Factor: Marking in Packaging Machines
As digitalization and automation progress, marking and coding gain increasing importance. Smart factory concepts, IoT integration, and automated quality control make high-resolution, flexible marking systems indispensable. At Geotechtronics, we combine extensive experience with a wide product portfolio to provide tailored and cost-effective solutions for your individual marking challenges.
- Selection of suitable control electronics and printheads
- Recommendation of appropriate inks
- Integration into conveyors and control systems
- Staff training
- Service and support concepts
- …
Integration into Existing Systems
TIJ marking systems and handheld printers offer companies the flexibility needed to quickly adapt to changing requirements.
TIJ marking systems can be integrated flexibly:
- Stand-alone or line-integrated
- PLC-controlled
- Automatic data input
- Sensor and encoder connection
- …