When it comes to choosing a batch coding or expiry date printing machine, there are always options available. So how do you pick the right date coder for your application? Selecting a batch coding or expiry date printing machine without first clearly defining your requirements can cause issues for your business. So how do you make sure your firm has the right technology for its needs now and well into the future?

Though every firm’s needs are unique, there are some things that every company should consider when investing in a batch coding or expiry date printing machine:

1. What are you printing?

The batch coding or expiry date printing machine you choose will depend on the code you’re printing. Are you printing a use-by date on the primary packaging? Or batch codes on secondary packaging? Take the time to clearly outline what (all) you need to print before you leap. Also, consider if there are multiple different message types, what they all are.

2. What are you printing onto?

Paper, cardboard, wet glass, plastic, wood, cloth; every material has different properties, which ultimately affect the way a code will be printed. Continuous inkjet printers (CIJ) printers are a popular choice for firms in a range of industries – beverage, pharmaceutical and snack foods to name but a few – because they offer a very fast way to print high quality, permanent codes on almost any substrate, such as glass, plastics (such as PET, polystyrene, and polypropylene), metal and cardboard.

3. What is your line speed?

The speed of your production line will determine the capability you need from your batch coding or expiry date printing machine. For example, continuous inkjet printers (CIJs) have the advantage of being able to clearly mark on all packaging substrates at all production speeds. They are also very easily integrated on to a conveyor production line.

4. What is your current factory environment?

Dusty? Wet? Cold? Some manufacturing environments can be challenging for technology. Choosing a batch coding or expiry date printing machine that’s built to withstand your unique environment will ensure you get longer use and greater reliability.

5. What are your future plans?

There’s no sense in investing in a date coding solution that doesn’t meet your firm’s needs twelve months down the line. Think about your future plans: are you expecting to grow? Will you be printing on different substrates? Will you be introducing new SKUs or printing different messages? Each of these will impact your date coding needs.

Next steps

Armed with your answers to the above questions, give some thought to the costs of the batch coding or expiry date printing machine: what is the purchase cost of the batch coding or expiry date printing machine, and what are the running costs for your business? This will help you determine the batch coding or expiry date printing machine that will provide the best return-on-investment.

You should also consider the current technology in your factory, and how easy it will be to integrate the batch coding or expiry date printing machine with minimum disruption to your production line. Talk to your team and find out what they will be comfortable operating. They might require additional training, so find out what kind of support is offered by the equipment provider. It is critical to choose an equipment provider with local maintenance teams who have the skills and resources to install, service and fix the date coder should anything go wrong.

If you’re looking to invest in a new or upgraded batch coding or expiry date printing machine, speak to Optimum Precision Coding Services for expert advice, no matter your budget we have a batch coding or expiry date printing machine that will serve your needs.

Courtesy: https://optimumprecision.org/