Continuous Inkjet Printers

Best Practices for Implementing Carton Coding Solutions on Production Lines

Carton coding solutions are designed for optimal marking of packaging boxes at different stages of the production process. Carton date and other variable coders include UV lasers, CO₂ lasers, thermal printers, and continuous inkjet printers. Carton coding equipment can be installed on a cartoner or conveyor system so cartons are marked as needed before, during, or after the inline production process.

Coding solutions deliver high-speed marking. For example, continuous inkjet printers are used for extreme high speed applications like wire or canning and can more than handle the throughput of cartoners.

Printing example

Installation example

Understanding Carton Coding

Real-time printing of variable data like barcodes and best-before dates is a critical enabler for traceability. Relying on coding by operators or users can result in errors, scrap, and re-work, ultimately leading to costly recalls and regulatory penalties.

Among all the errors caused by expiration date mistakes, 81% were caused by the date being displayed incorrectly. In another 16% of the cases, printed text was missing in whole or in part.

1

Incorrect date printed
2

Missing printed text
3

Other

Ask an Expert

Common Challenges in Carton Date Coding and Traceability

User/Operator Error in Coding

Errors in dates and formats can be caused by human operators. Inaccurate recording of coded information can pose serious challenges down the line.

Lack of Traceability and Product Recalls

Low-quality inline marking of packages can lead to traceability issues. The wrong coding system could lead to smudge markings, which could impact visibility and make it difficult to track products.

Products Are Perishable and Have Limited Shelf Life

Products with limited shelf life require accurate date coding. Inaccurate or missing coding data can result in wasted storage, products, and even health and safety issues for consumers.

Product switching using barcodes

Easy changeover of products is now possible by simply scanning a preregistered barcode. Now one line can support multiple products without having to reprogram the marking unit.

Price

A Flexible Coding Solution Is Needed

Enter the MK-G Series: Its self-troubleshooting capabilities, intuitive interface, and easy integration offer an extremely flexible coding option that adapts to various environments and requirements. This printer can be operated without any specialized knowledge, skills, or training, making it an even more versatile and practical option for businesses.

With automatic maintenance and troubleshooting, it constantly adapts to provide optimal coding solutions. It is increasingly taking over tasks previously done by technicians, offering a single coding solution to simplify processes and boost efficiency.

Using the MK Dock enables self-diagnosis and cleaning to ensure stable startup.

View Catalog

Key Considerations for Selecting Carton Coding Solutions

Production Line Requirements and Speed

Some high-speed cartoners produce over 100 cartons per minute. This means the accompanying inkjet carton printer or other coding solution employed must be able to match such speed.

Type of Packaging Material Used

No packaging material is created alike. It can feature smooth, rough, or glossy finishes. The distinct texture of each type of packaging material can impact its legibility.

Product Information and Coding Requirements

Certain industries have extremely strict coding requirements where coding solutions are employed. They must be able to update complex codes on the fly to print on uneven or curved surfaces with accuracy.

Barcode / 2D code

Cartons

Assessing Current Production Processes and Needs

Coding needs vary by industry. Research internal production needs and suitable coding equipment accordingly.

View a graph showing the MK-G Series operation status.

Performance Analytics

The hourly operation status of the MK-G Series is displayed on a graph. Visualize a wide range of information including error counts, operating hours, temperature, and viscosity as far back as 100 days.

Implementing Quality Control Measures

KEYENCE offers a line of continuous inkjet printers for the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and consumer industries. The MK-G Series integrates with existing production lines. Illustrated guides ensure quality control, allowing anyone to use KEYENCE CIJ printers with basic training.

Another key feature is monitoring coding accuracy via performance analysis, identifying errors early for quick resolution and minimal downtime.

Easily link to a print inspection device with just a LAN cable

Additionally, these printers can connect directly with print inspection equipment, further streamlining the quality assurance process. This integration saves time by automatically detecting and rejecting defective products, eliminating the need for manual inspection.

1

Continuous Inkjet Printer MK-G Series
2

Intuitive Vision System CV-X Series
3

Vision Sensor with Built-in AI IV4 Series

Experience Demo / Test

Selecting the Right Carton Coding Technology

To learn more about the KEYENCE line of carton date coding systems and how we help manufacturing lines choose the right coding technology, contact us today.

Ask an Expert