Inkjet Coding Machines for Dates, Batches & QR Codes
An inkjet coder prints variable data — production dates, batch and lot numbers, barcodes and QR codes — directly onto products or packaging at line speed. We help you choose between CIJ, TIJ, TTO and UV inkjet based on your material, line speed and code size, then sample-test before shipping.
Choose the coding method for your product
Each technology has a different strength. Start with the surface, the line speed and the amount of data you need to print.
CIJ Inkjet Printers
Dates, batch numbers and QR codes on bottles, cans, cable, pipe and film. Up to 380 m/min.
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TIJ High-Resolution Printers
600 DPI coding for cartons, labels, films and boxes. Online or handheld.
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TTO for Flexible Packaging
Crisp date codes on film, pouches and labels. Up to 650 mm/s.
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UV Inkjet
Variable data on labels and plastic packaging. 300–1200 DPI, up to 150 m/min.
Explore →What these machines code
Real production samples: dates, batch codes, barcodes and QR codes printed on the materials our customers run every day.
Which coding technology fits your line?
| Technology | Best for | Typical speed | Code height | Consumable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CIJ | Bottles, cans, cable, pipe, eggs | up to 380 m/min | 1–20 mm | Solvent / water-based ink |
| TIJ | Cartons, labels, films, boxes | up to 150 m/min | up to 12.7 mm | Print cartridge |
| TTO | Flexible film, pouches, labels | up to 650 mm/s | 32×46 / 53×53 mm area | Thermal ribbon |
| UV inkjet | Labels, plastic packaging, variable data | up to 150 m/min | 54 mm nozzle | UV ink |
Backed from sample to support
Common questions
What is the difference between CIJ, TIJ and TTO?
CIJ uses a continuous stream of charged ink droplets and suits curved, uneven and high-speed products. TIJ uses a replaceable thermal cartridge and gives high-resolution codes on cartons, labels and film. TTO transfers ink from a ribbon onto flexible packaging and is common on food and pharmaceutical lines.
Can one printer print dates and QR codes?
Yes. CIJ, TIJ, TTO and UV inkjet systems can all print variable data including dates, batch numbers, barcodes and QR codes, within their print height and resolution limits.
Which ink do I need for my material?
Ink choice depends on the substrate, the required adhesion and any food-contact or regulatory requirement. We confirm the ink with the supplier after reviewing your product sample.
Can the printer integrate with my conveyor and PLC?
Yes. We specify the mounting, photoelectric trigger, encoder and communication interface around your existing line. Share your conveyor speed and control setup and we will confirm the integration.
Do you provide a sample test?
Yes. Send us the product or packaging you need to code. We arrange a sample test and share the result before you order.
Keep exploring
Match the technology to the product
Choose CIJ for curved or uneven products and long runs. Choose TIJ when resolution matters and the surface is flat. Then choose TTO when the code goes onto film or pouches. Choose UV inkjet when the label needs a sharp code at speed. Also add vision inspection after the print head if you must check the code. However, a carton needs a larger character height than a vial.
Check the ink and the maintenance
Ink choice follows the substrate. For example, solvent inks dry fast on non-porous surfaces. Water-based inks suit porous cartons and paper. CIJ needs a daily flush and a solvent top-up. TIJ needs a clean cartridge and a capped print head. Therefore, match the maintenance routine to your shift pattern. In short, the surface decides the technology.
Run a sample before you order
Send a sample of the product with the code layout. We print the sample and photograph the result, so you see the contrast, scan rate and dry time. Then we confirm the printer, ink and bracket. In addition, we check the trigger and the conveyor speed against your line data. Finally, we check the ink lead time in your country.
First, list the product and the surface. Then list the code and the line speed. Next, check the ink and the dry time. Also check the maintenance routine. Finally, compare the cost per code, not the printer price. A low printer price can hide ink costs, so ask for a sample and a running cost.
We match inkjet coding machines to the product, not the other way round.
Compare the CIJ range, the TIJ range, the TTO range and the UV inkjet range. Then request a sample through the quote form. For background, read about inkjet printing.
Send us your product and code layout
We confirm the technology, print area and line speed, run a sample, and quote with shipping to your door.
