A Full Guide to Coding and Marking: Techniques and Equipment Types

What is Coding and Marking?

Coding and marking are crucial processes performed at the end of the production line in various industries. They are used to imprint variable data on products and packaging for effective product identification and tracking. This information can include expiration dates, serial numbers, batch codes, tracking barcodes and QR codes, and even complex product descriptions and ingredient lists. 

Why is Coding and Marking Important?

Coding and marking help manufacturers in product traceability, safety, and quality assurance, making it possible to track products from production to consumption. Additionally, it assists in meeting regulatory requirements and combat counterfeiting.

What is a Coding and Marking Machine?

A coding and marking machine refers to equipment that automates the printing of critical product information such as expiration date codes, lot numbers, barcodes, and product logos, onto a wide range of substrates, including paper, plastic, metal, and glass. 

Due to the wide variety of materials and types of products and packaging, there are numerous types of coding machines available. Common industrial coding machines include:

1. Inkjet Coders

Inkjet coders are devices that use inkjet technology to print identification information on products or packaging materials. Based on the printing technology, they can be further divided into types such as Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) and Drop-on-Demand (DOD). 

Inkjet coding and marking machines utilize non-contact printing methods, providing strong adaptability and high-speed coding. They are suitable for a wide range of material surfaces and are extensively use for food and beverage coding and marking and others .

2. Large Character Marking (LCM) Printers

LCM printers are a type of inkjet printer specifically designed for industrial applications where large, bold characters need to be printed on porous and non-porous substrates. These printers typically use Drop-on-Demand (DOD) technology, but they are optimized for creating larger print characters, often ranging from 10 mm to 64 mm in height.

These industrial coding machines directly imprint essential information, such as shipping details, dates, barcodes, and logos, onto a variety of large and challenging surfaces. These include boxes, cases, and substantial items like metal components, large pipes, cement boards, wood, and rubber tires.

3. Laser Coders

Laser coders operate by directing a high-powered laser beam to etch markings directly onto products. This method allows for precise and permanent coding, even in challenging areas like inclines and spherical surfaces, ideal for environments where durability and legibility are essential. 

The most notable applications of laser coders include marking batch numbers, expiration dates, and traceability codes on automotive parts, electronic components, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the food and beverage sector relies on laser coders to mark packaging materials such as plastic bottle caps, metal can bottoms, and aluminum foil bags. 

4. Thermal Transfer Overprinters (TTO)

TTO printers utilize heat to transfer printed images and text onto product packaging materials, ensuring precision and durability. They are particularly suited for coding flexible packaging materials like films and labels, and find widespread application across industries such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. 

These printers excel at variable data printing, including barcodes, QR codes, expiration dates, and batch numbers, while withstanding harsh environmental conditions such as high temperatures, humidity, and abrasion.

5. Dot Peen Marking Machines

Dot Peen Marking Machines, also known as dot pin marking machines, are versatile tools used for direct part marking (DPM) on various materials like metal, plastic, and ceramics. 

These machines employ a pneumatically or electronically driven pin to create a series of dots, forming alphanumeric characters, logos, serial numbers, and other identifiers on the surface of the material.

Dot peen marking offers a permanent and legible marking solution, ideal for traceability, product identification, and branding purposes. It is commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and metalworking for marking parts, components, and products.

How to Choose the Right Coding and Marking Equipment?

Several key factors need to be considered when selecting the appropriate equipment:

1. Compatibility: Determine the compatibility of the marking and coding equipment with your specific production line requirements, including the type of materials being marked (e.g., paper, plastic, metal), the surface texture, and the production speed.

2. Marking Requirements: Assess the specific marking requirements of your products, such as the type of information to be printed (e.g., expiration dates, lot numbers, barcodes), the size and clarity of the markings, and any regulatory compliance standards that need to be met.

3. Durability and Maintenance: Evaluate the durability and maintenance requirements of the equipment, including factors such as the lifespan of consumables (e.g., inks, printheads), the frequency of maintenance tasks, and the availability of technical support and spare parts.

4. Cost: Consider the upfront cost of the coding and marking printers, as well as ongoing operational expenses such as consumables and maintenance. Balance this against the potential benefits in terms of improved efficiency, reduced errors, and compliance with regulatory standards.

5. Scalability: Anticipate future growth and scalability needs of your production line when selecting coding and marking equipment. Choose equipment that can accommodate increasing production volumes or evolving marking requirements without significant disruption or investment.

By carefully evaluating these key factors, manufacturers can make informed decisions when choosing coding and marking equipment that best meets their needs, ensuring reliable and accurate product identification and tracking throughout the production process.

HPRT offers a diverse range of high-quality industrial coding and marking solutions suitable for manufacturers in various industries. Our standout Thermal Transfer Overprinters (TTO) have received widespread acclaim from both domestic and international clients. For more information on our coding and marking solutions or to receive expert purchasing advice, please feel free to contact us.