The DuraCode Touchscreen continuous inkjet printer applies clear, reliable codes to porous and nonporous materials at high production speeds. Specifically, its non-contact printhead can mark moving products without touching or stopping them. As a result, manufacturers can add dates, lot numbers, barcodes and other variable information directly on the production line.
The DuraCode Touchscreen combines fast coding with a straightforward WYSIWYG operator interface. Therefore, operators can create and review messages on the touchscreen before sending them to the printhead.
Moreover, the printer automatically monitors operating conditions to help maintain consistent code quality. Its stainless-steel construction and IP55 industrial protection also support dependable performance in dusty and debris-heavy environments.
Because the system prints with liquid ink, users can select formulas for different surfaces and performance requirements. Consequently, the DuraCode Touchscreen can mark materials that do not respond well to laser coding.
The DuraCode Touchscreen supports coding on a wide variety of packaging and manufactured products, including:
However, ink adhesion depends on the material, coating, surface contamination and handling conditions. Therefore, Ameripak recommends sample testing with the actual product before selecting the final ink.
Applications that require moisture, chemical, alcohol or abrasion resistance may need a specialized ink formula. Likewise, dark surfaces may require pigmented ink for stronger contrast.
The DuraCode Touchscreen provides a print height from 1.2 to 15 mm. In addition, it supports up to 34 vertical print drops and several font matrices for different message sizes and resolutions.
Supported font formats include:
The printer can also create barcodes, QR codes, logos, time codes, counters and shift information. Furthermore, multilingual support helps facilities standardize coding across different operators and production locations.
Traverse printing and 90-degree vertical printing expand message-orientation options. As a result, the printhead can accommodate products moving in different directions or applications that require vertical text.
The DuraCode Touchscreen can print at published speeds up to 1,250 feet per minute, or approximately 381 meters per minute. Actual speed, however, depends on the selected font, message length, print height, ink and product spacing.
A short single-line date code can run faster than a complex multiline message. Consequently, application testing should determine the expected production speed rather than relying only on the maximum rating.
The printer uses a 60-micron nozzle and supports a published printing distance from 1 to 3 inches. Nevertheless, product position and movement must remain controlled for consistent code placement and quality.
The WYSIWYG touchscreen interface allows operators to create, edit and select messages. In addition, a standard USB port simplifies file transfer and message management.
An encoder port helps the printer adjust coding to production-line speed. Therefore, code spacing can remain consistent as conveyor speed changes.
Standard system features include:
Optional communication features include a serial port and network LAN connection. Meanwhile, an optional positive-air pump can help protect the printhead in challenging environments.
The modular system design provides access to service components without requiring extensive disassembly. Moreover, the ink-recovery and solvent-flush pumps support routine operation and printhead cleaning.
DuraCode’s solvent-management system also helps control fluid consumption. However, continuous inkjet technology still requires ink, makeup fluid, filters and scheduled maintenance. Therefore, facilities should include consumables and service intervals when evaluating long-term operating costs.
Available accessories include a mobile stand, printhead holder, alarm beacon and audible alarm. Consequently, Ameripak can configure the installation around the line layout and operator requirements.
Maximum speed, print quality and adhesion depend on the message, ink and substrate. Therefore, Ameripak will confirm the application before specifying the printer and fluid package.
The DuraCode Touchscreen offers flexibility when products require ink-based coding or when the manufacturer does not want to alter the surface. However, inkjet printing requires ongoing ink, makeup fluid and maintenance.
Applications requiring permanent, consumable-free marking on paper, corrugated, wood, glass or selected plastics may benefit from the LightJet CO2 laser marking machine. Conversely, heat-sensitive plastics and products that require fine, high-contrast marks may suit the LightJet UV laser marking machine.
Therefore, substrate response, required code permanence, production speed and operating cost should guide the final technology choice.
Ameripak helps configure the DuraCode Touchscreen around the product and production line. First, the team reviews the substrate, code content and desired contrast. Next, Ameripak evaluates line speed, product spacing and installation conditions. Finally, sample testing helps confirm ink adhesion, readability and durability before deployment.
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