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The Indelible Mark: Selecting the Right Inkjet Batch Coding Machine for Your Water Bottling Success
May 8, 2025
Why Your Batch Coder is More Than Just a Printer?
In the world of packaged water, where purity, safety, and trust are paramount, every small detail matters. Among these, the batch coding printed on your water bottles speaks volumes. The Inkjet Batch Coding Machine plays a crucial role in ensuring that the information on your product is clear, legible, and compliant with industry regulations. From manufacturing dates (MFD) to expiry dates (Exp. Date), batch numbers, and even maximum retail prices (MRP), these machines make it all possible.
Selecting the right inkjet coder is more than just about printing; it’s about creating a system that delivers reliability, clarity, speed, and cost-effectiveness. This article explores the specifications, features, and benefits of DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine, designed to optimize operations in mineral water and packaged drinking water plants.
DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine: Specifications and Features
Application: Non-Contact Printing for Water Bottling Lines
Designed for non-contact batch coding on PET bottles, DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine caters specifically to packaged drinking water plants. Whether it’s on the body, shoulder, or cap of the bottle, this machine ensures that all necessary information is printed clearly, enabling traceability and regulatory compliance.
- Coding Requirements: It prints essential alphanumeric text like MFD, Exp. Date, Batch No., MRP, and even simple logos or 1D/2D barcodes.
- Line Speeds: This coder is versatile, suitable for both low-speed lines (around 30 BPM) and high-speed lines (up to 400 BPM or more), offering scalability to meet your plant’s needs.
- Environment Suitability: Built to perform in the humid, dusty, and occasionally wet environments typical of water bottling plants, especially in regions with extreme climates like Gujarat.
- Substrate Compatibility: Primarily designed for PET bottles, ensuring good adhesion and fast-drying ink.
Technology Considerations Based on Speed & Environment
DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine utilizes Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) technology, a widely adopted standard for high-speed, non-contact coding on beverage lines. Here’s why CIJ stands out in your bottling plant:
- Print Speed: Capable of printing at speeds of up to 300-400 meters per minute, it is well-suited for high-speed bottling lines, ensuring that the print job doesn’t slow down production.
- Environment Protection: The machine is equipped with an IP55 rating as a minimum, with an IP65 rating highly recommended for areas prone to splashing or frequent washdowns. This high level of protection ensures your machine operates reliably even in challenging environments.
- Cabinet Material: Stainless Steel (SS 304 minimum, SS 316 for higher corrosion resistance) is used for the machine’s housing, ensuring it is durable and easy to clean, which is vital in the water bottling industry.
Detailed Specifications of DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine
Here are the detailed specifications that make DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine the ideal choice for your packaging plant:
| Component | Description | Qty | Remarks for Capacity & Environmental Adaptation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Printing Mechanism | Utilises advanced Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) technology for high-speed, non-contact marking. | 1 Unit | Ideal for fast-moving production lines requiring consistent performance. |
| Printhead Assembly | – Capable of printing up to 5 lines – Nozzle Sizes: Standard 60µm, Optional 50µm for fine detail, 70µm for specific needs – Constructed with durable industrial materials, often stainless steel – Flexible umbilical, usually 3–4 metres, with extended options | 1 Unit | Multiple print lines required for typical PET bottle applications. 50/60µm ideal for clarity. |
| Machine Enclosure | – Material: SS304 standard; SS316 recommended for harsh conditions – Protection: IP55 minimum; IP65 strongly preferred | 1 Unit | Designed for high-hygiene or wet environments, such as beverage bottling. |
| Operator Interface | – Full-colour touchscreen (capacitive or resistive) – Minimum 7” size, 10”+ enhances usability – Visual interface with icons and real-time message preview – Multi-language support including English, Hindi, Gujarati, etc. | 1 Unit | User-friendly for operators of varying skill levels. Interface design reduces user errors. |
| Data & Connectivity | Includes Ethernet, USB, RS232, and digital I/O ports for seamless integration with automation systems. | 1 Lot | Network-ready for Industry 4.0 environments and real-time line data transfer. |
| Printing Performance | – Character size: Typically 1.5mm to over 12mm – Line speed: Up to 300–400+ m/min – Supports various fonts including TrueType – Barcode: 1D & 2D symbologies supported – Image support: Basic logos (commonly BMP format) | 1 System | Must match or exceed the maximum conveyor speed. Enables traceability and branding. |
| Ink Management System | – Ink Supply: Smart cartridge (chip-enabled) or bulk system – Auto viscosity control – Fluid level sensors with alerts for ink and solvent – Integrated filtration (main and pre-printhead) | 1 System | Ensures consistent print quality and minimises operator errors. Cartridge system simplifies handling. |
| Software Capabilities | – Stores 100+ pre-set messages – Access control via user login levels – Buffer for queued print jobs – Auto date/expiry features with format options – Shift and counter coding (batch & sequential) – Inbuilt diagnostics and event logs | 1 System | Advanced software boosts operational efficiency and traceability. |
| Integration Support | – Sensor input for product detection (photocell/proximity) – Encoder input for variable-speed lines to maintain print precision | Standard | Encoder input essential where conveyor speeds fluctuate. |
| Mounting System | Includes stainless steel floor stand or mounting bracket kit | 1 Set | SS mountings resist corrosion; adjustable stands offer flexible installation. |
| Operational Conditions | – Ambient Temperature: 5°C to 45°C – Humidity: 10% to 90% (non-condensing) | N/A | Engineered to perform reliably in hot, humid regions like Gujarat. |
Ink & Solvent Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Ink Composition | Fast-evaporating ink suitable for PET; primarily MEK-based for durability, with MEK-free alternatives available for lower emissions. Standard black ink; colour variants optional. Verify food-safe status if required. |
| Solvent | Specifically formulated solvent compatible with the selected ink type. |
| Packaging | Sealed cartridges (750ml–1L) with smart chip technology preferred for ease and error reduction; bulk refill systems also available. |
| Shelf Life | Typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on manufacturer guidance. |
Utility Requirements
| Utility | Specification |
|---|---|
| Electrical Input | Accepts 100–240V AC, 50/60Hz, single-phase power (exact requirement must be verified). |
| Compressed Air | Not generally needed unless specified for pressurised environments (e.g., dust-prone zones). |
Key Features and Benefits of DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine
1. High IP Rating & Stainless Steel Cabinet
- Feature: The machine’s high IP rating (IP65 recommended) and stainless steel construction ensure superior protection against dust and water, making it ideal for wet environments like bottling plants.
- Benefit: Maximizes machine uptime, reduces downtime caused by environmental factors, and makes cleaning easier, maintaining hygiene standards at all times.
2. Automatic Nozzle Sealing & Flushing System
- Feature: The automatic nozzle sealing system prevents ink from drying and causing blockages during shutdown periods, while the flushing system ensures the nozzle is clean during startup.
- Benefit: Guarantees crisp, clear prints from the very first bottle of the day, saving time, reducing waste, and minimizing manual cleaning efforts.
3. Smart Cartridge Fluid System
- Feature: The smart cartridge system ensures correct ink and solvent are used by utilizing chip-based cartridges that monitor fluid levels and prevent errors.
- Benefit: Reduces the risk of machine damage, simplifies the refilling process, and optimizes ink usage, saving you money on unnecessary cartridge replacements.
4. User-Friendly Touchscreen with WYSIWYG Display
- Feature: The intuitive touchscreen interface displays exactly what the print will look like, with support for multiple languages.
- Benefit: Reduces operator training time, minimizes coding errors, and speeds up message setup and product changeovers.
5. Advanced Connectivity & Software Integration
- Feature: With Ethernet connectivity and software that integrates with factory automation systems, this coder allows remote control, automated message selection, and real-time performance monitoring.
- Benefit: Enhances your plant’s efficiency, eliminates manual errors, and supports Industry 4.0 connectivity for future-proofing your production process.
6. High Print Speed with Encoder Integration
- Feature: The ability to handle speeds of up to 400 BPM and integration with encoders ensures the code remains legible and consistent, even on variable-speed lines.
- Benefit: Guarantees clear, compliant codes, prevents illegible or distorted prints, and ensures consistent quality across high-speed production lines.
Connecting Specifications to Your Success
Regulatory Compliance
Choosing the right inkjet batch coder ensures you meet all regulatory requirements for printing batch numbers, expiry dates, MRP, and other vital information. This compliance avoids costly fines, recalls, and legal issues.
Essential Traceability
In the event of a quality issue or product recall, clear and accurate batch coding allows you to trace the affected products quickly, minimizing damage to your brand’s reputation and ensuring consumer safety.
Brand Protection & Consumer Confidence
A professional, clear, and consistent code reinforces the quality of your brand, fostering trust and consumer confidence. Conversely, illegible or missing codes can make consumers question your product’s authenticity and quality.
Operational Efficiency
With features like automatic nozzle cleaning, easy setup, and robust performance, DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine reduces operational disruptions. Less downtime and reduced manual intervention contribute to a higher Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), optimizing your bottling line.
Cost Control & Future-Proofing
Efficient ink handling, reduced downtime, and seamless integration with automation systems mean lower operational costs. Additionally, with advanced connectivity and software features, DTPPL’s machine is prepared for future growth, keeping your plant at the forefront of technology.
Conclusion: A Smart Investment for Your Water Bottling Line
Investing in DTPPL’s Inkjet Batch Coding Machine is an investment in your plant’s efficiency, compliance, and long-term success. With robust features designed for high-speed production, ease of use, and industry-leading technology, this coder helps ensure that your water bottling line runs smoothly, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory standards.
DTPPL is a leading manufacturer and supplier of Batch Coding Machines, offering a range of solutions tailored to your specific needs. Don’t let batch coding be an afterthought—opt for a reliable, high-performance machine that will support your business growth and elevate your brand.
Contact DTPPL today to learn more about how our Inkjet Batch Coding Machines can enhance your operations!