Printing barcodes, dates, and other information on products often requires some type of industrial printer. Continuous inkjet printers and thermal inkjet printers are two of the main options but provide distinct advantages.
What Is Continuous Inkjet Technology?
Continuous inkjet technology (CIJ) involves the use of two separate containers. One container includes a solvent, while the other contains the ink. The two additives are combined in a single reservoir where the mixture is pressurised and pressed through the print head.
When the flow of ink reaches the print head, a small piezoelectric component creates an oscillating action that causes a droplet of ink to form. The droplets are electrically charged and transferred to the substrate.
Use CIJ Printing for High-Speed and High-Volume Print Jobs
CIJ printing is better suited for high-speed print jobs compared to using a TIJ printer. Some of the best TIJ printers have a maximum print speed of about 100 metres per minute. A CIJ printer may print at speeds up to 300 metres per minute, which is significantly faster.
A CIJ printer is also better equipped for high-volume printing. CIJ printing technology is incredibly reliable. The complexity of these systems means that they require regular maintenance.
However, with proper maintenance, you can count on a CIJ printer to keep up with your printing demands. A quality CIJ printer can operate 24/7 and print much faster compared to other printing options.
Use CIJ Printers for Printing on Difficult Substrates
CIJ printers are often more capable of printing on a variety of materials compared to TIJ printers. The versatility of a CIJ printer comes from the variety of inks available. You can find ink intended for use on a wide range of substrates, including:
- Metal
- Plastics
- Glass
- Vinyl
- Paper
- Cardboard
- Wood
You can print on porous and non-porous materials, as CIJ printers can accept methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)-based inks. These inks can dry in less than a second, allowing them to adhere to a wider variety of materials.
CIJ printers are larger and more cumbersome compared to the typical TIJ printer. They are also often mounted in place. However, the fixed position allows for greater consistency and automation, making it one of the top choices for industrial printing applications.
The bottom line is that CIJ printers are often the best option for use in production lines with a high volume of output. A CIJ printer is more likely to be able to keep up with the pace of your production line instead of keeping you from reaching your quotas.
