In reality laser and inkjet are complementary technologies. Some operations may have an application that allows for both technologies equally, however in many cases after the correct analysis; the choice will be clear-cut.
Imaje Coding Technology has extensive experience in both technologies through its broad product range and appreciates the merits and limitations of both systems.
Every application should be individually assessed to establish which is the most suitable technology. Elements to consider are the substrate, line requirements (eg speed), the desired message, the physical environment and of course budget.
How lasers work
Different substrates require different energy levels to ‘change’ and mark the surface. As a result laser-marking systems are available in variety of power ratings, measured in watts. Imaje sits at the top end of the market with the Imaje Lightjet Vector and Lightjet Matrix at 200-250 watts, utilising Rofin technology – world leaders in industrial laser technology. However there are lower power (eg 10 watts) laser coders available for different applications.
There is invariably a trade-off between power and speed. As such there are effectively three elements of laser technology to consider: the substrate to be marked, line speed and message complexity.
If the surface is easy to lase, a low powered laser may be adequate, however if production lines are travelling at medium to high speed or the message is complex, a more powerful laser is necessary to compensate. Additionally, if the surface is hard or difficult to mark then more power is required even before line speed is considered.
“Virtually no consumables”
The most widely promoted benefit of laser coding is the absence of traditional consumables.
Laser coding systems do not require ink or additives as inkjet printers do, however there are some requirements, other than power, to safely operate a laser system.
Most laser marking set-ups require an extraction and filtration system to safely remove the by-products of the lasing process eg vapours or particles such as glass particulates. As a result filter changes may be required. In addition laser coder parts such as the laser tube and coding head may need replacing depending on use. New filters and spare parts are costs that should be considered over the long-term use of the equipment.
Laser benefits
- Laser systems provide a permanent mark that is virtually impossible to alter without evidence (the surface is physically altered)
- Vector technology enables aesthetically appealing graphics, text and multiple lines (if speed permits). The cosmetics industry has found applications to ensure branding is not negatively affected by unattractive traceability marking and to reduce the possibility of counterfeiting.
- Virtually no consumables – lower ongoing running costs (excluding spare parts)
- Depending on the substrate, readability can be an issue eg laser markings on clear plastic or glass can be hard to read – this may be a positive (discrete code) or a negative (hard to read) depending on the purpose of the mark
- Laser technology is considered to be very robust – few moving parts
- Laser marking is considered very ‘clean’ because of the absence of solvent fumes associated with inkjet coders. NB Inkjet emissions are very low and very safe – certainly well below acceptable levels
- Substrates easily marked by laser include: PET, inked paper, cardboard and wood
Laser limitations
- Laser systems can not mark reflective substrates such as metal eg aluminium or steel cans
- Some glass is very difficult to mark and to do so effectively requires a very high powered laser such as the Imaje Lightjet Laser
- Recycling laser marked products is only possible if the packaging is reconstituted eg melted or pulped down. In contrast, inkjets can use specialised inks that enable inkjet coding to be removed in alkaline baths. In this situation the permanent nature of the laser mark would not make it a viable alternative.
- Laser systems are capable of printing barcodes (in inverse mode), however at this stage inkjet coders/markers provide a far superior solution for ‘on-the-fly’ barcode marking. The complexity of most barcodes means the speed of the laser mark is compromised and therefore often not commercially viable.
- While laser coders may not use consumables that produce emissions, the by-products produced by a laser as it marks the substrate can be toxic or dangerous.
- Laser technology traditionally requires a greater initial capital expense than inkjet systems. For applications that suit both laser and inkjet a cost-benefit analysis is strongly recommended. Imaje Coding Technology provides an in-depth application assessment to identify the best possible traceability solution to clients who are considering both technologies.
Laser - Workplace Health and Safety Requirements
Integrating laser equipment requires rigorous safety precautions, special physical barriers and sufficient space around the machine and ongoing staff training. For example;
- Must restrict access to the actual machine, including interlocked guarding and signage .
- Rigorous training, including the appointment of an on-site training officer who is responsible for training other staff and ensure safe operating practices (a current staff member can be trained into this position).
- Ongoing training: the safety component of the operator training must be repeated annually for all staff operating the equipment.
- Protective eye-ware is also essential
After Sales-Service
Laser is still a relatively new technology from a coding and marking perspective. It is also sensitive, ‘high-tech’ equipment that requires specialist knowledge for both installation and service. It is always advisable, regardless of whether you choose inkjet or laser, to consider the experience and availability of the after-sales service.
Imaje: inkjet vs laser
Imaje is focused on offering customers a durable and cost effective marking solution that best suits their application now and in the future. Imaje is able to offer both technologies as well as thermal transfer coders. The result is Imaje is able to offer objective advice when it comes to the inkjet versus laser debate. Our primary motivation is to provide customers with a system that meets ALL their objectives and fits with their unique environment.
For more information please contact Christine Domenech on 1300 365 766
