FAQ: Thermal Inkjet Printing

All of our systems (excluding special models such as Shutter and IP65 units) only require a single phase 240v supply. This is regulated down to a safe working voltage via the PSU (power supply).

The operating temperature of our systems is listed between 05-40 degrees. However, this is largely due to the ink cartridge.

Where necessary, we can adjust parameters to increase the pre-heat temperature of the ink, such as in a cold store or low ambient environment. Compared to CIJ and TTO, the TIJ range has added flexibility due to these additional parameters.

We also have a series of ‘special’ systems for demanding environments. IP65 rated printers can be used in wet and arduous environments and shutter systems in dusty and dirty packaging conditions.

We select the appropriate ink grade based on substratum. A key thing to avoid as with any print technology is a wet or damp surface which will hinder the ability of the ink to ‘adhere’ to the surface.

Yes- yellow, green, white, blue, red and even UV inks are all available for our thermal inkjet printers. Further additions to the colour range are expected as development continues.

All of our systems can accept true type fonts in addition to built-in standard fonts within the printer memory. Unlike many other printing technologies we can also print variable data formats, using the font chosen as the software ‘writes’ the character set to the printer.

All our systems either have the facility as standard or can be upgraded to print commercially recognised barcode formats. This includes 2D, GS1, QR and standard EAN.  The high resolution printers can achieve exceptional clarity.

In standard format, all of our systems can accommodate line speeds of up to 60m/min. We are able to offer a simple upgrade to accommodate higher speed lines up to 90m/min if required.

Our standard systems use a single cartridge that measures 12.7mm, which is perfect for product identification, batch, best before and use by data.

You can print multiple lines of text within the printable ‘height’ of the cartridge, by dividing the character size (height) into the overall height of the cartridge aperture (12.7mm). Total print distance (in direction of material travel) is 2M although this can be extended if required.

If you require additional print height then we can use our single heads and ‘stitch’ up to eight heads with a single controller. This provides an overall print height of 101.6mm. Each head can be set to run at different parameters and include different data.