Frequently asked questions

Yes – although we do not recommend this due to the systems and cartridges that we supply being tuned to match each other for optimum performance read by a simple connection/interface by the printer once the cartridge is inserted. In addition to this, as the ink delivery system relies on a vacuum within the cartridge, replenishing/refilling can often lead to air being allowed to enter, subsequently leading to degradation of performance.

Yes – Our standard iDESIGN software package has a built-in ‘control’ page that allows connection to multiple printers. All printers are supported and utilise their own unique IP address. Printers can be named to reflect the lines that they are mounted to. Wireless networking is also available, we can provide details of upgrades to the printers where necessary.

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.

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.

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.

No, our sealed cartridges are simple to handle and don’t require any specialist PPE. They are safe for everyday use and disposal does not involve any special procedures.

No, the TIJ systems can all be simply ‘turned-off’ at the end of a shift. Removal of the cartridge is a simple operation with a click-in/click-out and even if the systems are inadvertently shut-down, for example, there is loss of power to the line, no ink will be wasted or ejected, causing no detrimental effect to the ink solution or printer. Once power is restored, the systems all perform a quick software check, read the cartridge and then reset themselves ready to continue 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).

Our thermal inkjet systems feature built-in software that allows the user to optimise usage per print by ‘grey scaling’. For example, when printing a simple expiry date onto a light substrate – an application that doesn’t require true black print density – the operator can adjust the settings to achieve better usage per cartridge.

Our TIJ systems are exceptionally easy to integrate into a wide range of packaging lines and equipment. Their compact size, lightweight design, and simple adjustability make them ideal for almost any set up. With no bulky controllers or ink delivery units, they can be seamlessly retrofitted often using exiting mounting.

Our TIJ systems typically offer a lower cost per print, even on consumables alone.

When comparing to TTO, consider extra costs like ribbon and printhead replacements, downtime from servicing, snapped ribbons, waste disposal and set up time. For conventional CIJ, factor in maintenance, part replacements, startup/shut down, and risks like ink spills from improper shutdowns.

Thermal inkjet (TIJ) printers require a lower upfront investment compared to conventional CIJ or TTO systems. Their simplicity means less training, minimal installation requirements, and no need for extended production line shutdowns during set up.

Prints per cartridge is based upon several factors that can be controlled by the operating system of the printer. For example, larger characters  require more ink. As do formats which contain multiple lines of text, barcodes and graphics. Different font styles can also affect the cost per print.

As a rough guide, to print a batch code consisting of a single line of 3mm text containing 5 characters, you can expect to achieve 1 Million prints per cartridge. A best before date and batch number with a time code may be closer to 350-450K prints per cartridge.

Clean handling – The ink is fully enclosed within the cartridge, eliminating spills from pouring or refilling.

Maintenance-free – Each cartridge contains its own ink delivery system, so it’s replaced with every cartridge change, removing the need for ongoing maintenance.

Efficient use – TIJ uses “drop-on-demand” technology, meaning only the required amount of ink is used, with no need for recirculation.

Reliable

• Works first time, every time
• No start-up time or shut down routine
• Consistently produces clear, high-resolution codes

Easy-to-use

• Direct data input is available on the printer
• Intuitive, free, format design software package
• Cartridges simply clip in and out

Cost-effective

• Low capital cost of equipment
• Ink cartridges are the only ongoing cost
• No maintenance

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.

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.

Thermal inkjet is a non-contact printing technology in which thermal energy is used to expel ink through a nozzle and onto a substrate. TIJ can print at high speeds on to a wide range of different packaging materials, reliably and cost-effectively.

Due to the zero maintenance requirements of the TIJ printers we have seen no demand for offering service contracts on these systems. They truly are a maintenance free product with no filters, pumps or complicated ink delivery systems. They also benefit from the entire ink delivery system being within a sealed cartridge which can be disposed of through the normal channels of printer cartridge recycling companies.

Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) can print on a wide range of porous and non-porous packaging types. The key is matching the right ink grade to the substrate—similar to more costly conventional CIJ and TTO systems.
Rotech offers a variety of ink grades tailored to different applications, and we provide free sample testing through our TopMarks service to ensure the best match for your needs.

Essentially, anywhere where we can place the printer where the material is in motion and space allows us to present the printhead to the product. For example- Labelling / Flo-Wrapping / Vertical Form Fill and Seal (VFFS) / Horizontal Form Fill and Seal (HFFS) / Cartoners / Baggers

The benefits of TIJ are extensive and can be tailored to suit different installations, environments, and print requirements. Traditional coding and marking systems often come with unnecessary features, high maintenance demands, and excessive consumable costs—all driving up long-term expenses.

At Rotech, we take a different approach.
We don’t rely on service-related revenue or incur high internal servicing costs. Our TIJ systems offer a genuinely maintenance-free, easy-to-use, and cost-effective solution for your coding and marking needs.