What is Continuous Ink Jet (CIJ) Printer?

Continuous Ink Jet Printer

cij

Continuous Ink Jet Printer (CIJ) – High-speed, non-contact printing technology in time. Industries prefer these printers for coding and marking product and packaging information. It prints product data likewise, batch numbers, expiry dates, barcodes, QR codes, and logos on a wide range of materials.

Linx Global is a leading manufacturer of inkjet coding solutions and ink-jet printers. These printers are known for their ease of use and their need for very low maintenance. Linx CIJ best fits businesses looking to improve their coding and marking quality.

Benefits of Linx Global CIJ Printers in detail:

InkJet Coder for Printing Expiry Dates

continuous ink jet
  1. High-speed printing:
    Linx continuous ink-jet printers can print easily despite fast-moving production lines and ensure minimal downtime.
  2. Non-contact printing:
    The CIJ technology allows non-contact printing with the substrate in detail. Indeed it enables coding on uneven surfaces and reduces the risk of damage.
  3. Wide range of inks:
    Linx offers a variety of ink types, such as food grade, pigmented, and special inks.
  4. Easy setup and operation:
    Continuous ink-jet printers feature provides not only user friendly access but also a quick change of ink systems. As a result, this makes them easy to set up, operate, and maintain.
  5. Robust design:
    Linx continuous inkjet printers can print in harsh environments coupled with sealed print heads to protect against dust and moisture.
  6. Low maintenance:
    CIJ printers require minimal maintenance with self cleaning print heads in effect. Also, it provides automatic diagnostics, ensuring optimum performance and reduced downtime.
  7. Connectivity and integration:
    Above all, These printers offer various connectivity options and can be easily integrated with existing production lines.

Overall, Investing in a Linx Global Continuous Ink-jet Printer can achieve clear coding and marking directly on your product.

continuous ink jet

How does a continuous inkjet printer work?

continuous inkjet printer

Inkjet Coding and Marking Solutions

A continuous inkjet (CIJ) coding printer (non-contact printing technology) can quickly print high-quality codes, text, and graphics on various substrates. Food, beverage, pharmaceuticals, and packaging industries mostly use CIJ for marking batch numbers, expiry dates, and barcodes. Here’s an overview of how a CIJ coder works:

Continuous Inkjet Printer Workings

  1. Ink System:
    The Continuous Inkjet printer has an ink system so that it can reserve ink. The ink, which typically contains solvents, dyes, or pigments, circulates continuously through the system.
  2. Ink Pressure and Circulation:
    CIJ pressurizes the ink and pumps it from the reservoir to the printhead. After passing through the printhead, CIJ collects the unused ink and returns it to the reservoir for recirculation.
  3. Printhead and Nozzle:
    The printhead contains a nozzle with a small opening, usually ranging from 40 to 70 microns in diameter. A piezoelectric crystal inside the nozzle vibrates at a specific frequency, typically between 60,000 and 120,000 times per second.
  4. Droplet Formation:
    As the pressurized ink enters the vibrating nozzle, it breaks into individual droplets due to the vibration effect. These CIJ droplets release in a continuous stream from the nozzle.
  5. Charge Electrode:
    Immediately after the droplets exit the nozzle, they pass through a charged electrode. The electrode imparts an electrostatic charge to each droplet, depending on the intended position of the printable character.
  6. Deflection Plates:
    The charged ink droplets travel through a pair of deflection plates, which create an electric field. Depending on the droplet charge with a more or less electric field, determining their position on the substrate.
  7. Printing on the Substrate:
    The accurately deflected CIJ droplets reach the substrate, creating the desired characters or graphics. Meanwhile, the non-deflected droplets fall into a gutter and return to the ink reservoir for recirculation.
  8. Drying and Curing:
    As the ink droplets land on the substrate, the solvents evaporate quickly, leaving behind the ink on the surface. This process results in a high-quality, permanent print that is resistant to smudging and fading.

Print with Food Grade Inks

The Continuous inkjet coder’s ability to print directly on moving products makes it an ideal choice for many industrial coding applications. Additionally, the technology offers high-speed printing, low maintenance requirements, and the capability to produce high-resolution prints with minimal downtime.

Expiry Date Printer

Continuous Inkjet Printers are popular for printing variable information, such as dates or batch codes during production. These printers explicitly handle products of different sizes, shapes, or textures, making them prime for many industries. Furthermore, Linx Printing Technologies offer a range of continuous inkjet printers that are cost-effective and efficient. Some features include remote printer monitoring and customer support, concealed and easy-to-clean printheads, error-free touch-screen control, and simple self-service capability. Compared to other industrial inkjet coders, Linx’s printers provide a reliable and quality solution to meet your needs.

expiry date printer

Linx 8900 Continuous Inkjet Printer (CIJ)

This printer delivers efficient output with the help of a remote application to keep you in control anytime and anywhere. Moreover, Linx CIJ allows you to print up to six lines, including barcodes, batch coding, and QR codes. Therefore it’s perfect for high-speed production, retail packaging, and 24/7 operations.

Linx 8900 inkjet coder has popularity because of its remote access, control, and support through the Linx PrinterNet. This allows for error-free coding by enhancing your monitoring and control capabilities. Additionally, it features a quick operation with a touchscreen interface, self-service, and minimal intervention to maximize production uptime. The Linx 8900 CIJ Printer allows you to print onto both primary and secondary packaging. Hence, one printer further makes your printing process easy.

Take your production to the next level with the Linx 8900 Continuous Inkjet Printer.

What is cattle weighing scale?

A cattle weighing scale is a specialized weighing device designed specifically for weighing cattle and other livestock animals. These scales play a crucial role in modern livestock management by providing accurate weight measurements. Moreover, it helps farmers make decisions about feeding, breeding, and overall herd health. Here’s an overview of the benefits and uses of cattle weighing scales:

cattle weighing scale
cattle weighing
cattle scale

Uses of Animal Weighing Scale

  1. Monitoring and Feeding Cattle Accurately:
    Farmers can monitor their animal’s growth and development by regularly weighing cattle. This information helps them to analyze and adjust feeding programs. Which ensures each animal receives the appropriate amount based on weight, age, and production goals (e.g., meat, milk, or reproduction). Accurate feeding contributes to better feed conversion rates, cost savings, and ultimately increased profitability.
  2. Identifying Sick Animals:
    Regular weighing can help identify animals that are not gaining weight as expected or losing weight. In fact, you can quickly identify which animal indicates health issues or lameness. Early detection allows farmers to address these issues promptly. In addition, it minimizes the impact on the animal’s well-being and the herd’s overall productivity.
animal scale
animal scale
cattle scale

Advantages of Cattle and Animal Weighing Scale

  • Optimum Weight Management:
    Cattle weighing scales help farmers determine when their animals have reached the optimum weight for various purposes. Such as breeding, selling, or slaughtering of animals. This information ensures farmers can make well-informed decisions about the right time to sell or breed their cattle. Furthermore, it maximizes profits and maintains a healthy, productive herd.
  • Record Keeping and Performance Analysis:
    Modern scales often come with data recording capabilities, allowing farmers to track each animal’s weight history. This data can be used to analyze the performance of individual animals and the entire herd.
  • Compliance and Traceability:
    Accurate weight records are essential for meeting regulatory requirements related to animal welfare, traceability, and food safety. Cattle weighing scales help farmers maintain accurate documentation and demonstrate compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Cattle weighing scales come in various designs and configurations, including platform scales, alleyway scales, and weigh bars. When selecting a scale, consider factors such as the size of your herd, available space, portability requirements, and budget. Investing in a reliable and accurate scale is valuable for improving livestock management, animal welfare, and overall farm profitability.

What Ink is Best for Flexible Packaging Printing?

In general, the Linx inks can print with ease on flexible packaging with an inkjet coding machine. Variety of inks and fluids depending on the material and application requirements. Here are some popular ink types:

inkjet coder for packaging

  1. Solvent-based Inks:
    CIJ printers and some TIJ printers commonly use solvent-based inks. These inks contain pigments or dyes dissolved in a solvent that evaporates quickly. Indeed, leaving behind durable and high-quality inkjet printing on flexible packaging materials. Solvent-based inks offer good adhesion, quick drying times, and resistance to chemicals and abrasion.
  2. Water-based Inks:
    Water-based inks are suitable for use with some TIJ printers and flexographic printing systems. These inks contain pigments or dyes suspended in a water-based solution, making them more environmentally friendly than solvent-based inks. Water-based inks work well on porous substrates, such as paper and uncoated flexible inkjet packaging materials. But may not adhere well to non-porous materials without surface treatment.
  3. UV-curable Inks:
    UV-LED inkjet printers use UV-curable inks and offer excellent adhesion, durability, and resistance to chemicals and abrasion. These inks contain photoinitiators that cure instantly when exposed to UV light. Additionally, creating high-quality inkjet coding on various flexible packaging materials, including plastic films and laminates.
  4. Hot-melt Inks:
    Thermal transfer over printers (TTO) uses hot-melt inks, also known as solid inks. Also, some drop-on-demand (DOD) inkjet printers use hot melt inks. These inks come in solid form, and the print head melts the ink during the printing. As a result, transferring it from a ribbon onto the flexible packaging material. Hot-melt inks offer good adhesion and durability, making them suitable for printing on thin films and labels.

Buy the best inkjet coder for packaging.

When selecting the best ink for inkjet coder for printing flexible packaging printing, consider factors such as the printer type, packaging material, production speed, required print quality and durability, and environmental considerations. Each ink type has advantages and limitations, so choose the one that best fits your coding and marking requirements.

How to print the expiry date on flexible packaging?

print expiry date on packaging

Printing expiry dates on flexible packaging is essential for ensuring product safety, compliance, and traceability. Several methods are available for printing expiry dates on flexible packaging, each with advantages and limitations. Here are some popular options:

  1. Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) Printer:
    CIJ printers are widely used for printing expiry dates on flexible packaging because they can print directly on moving products on a production line. They offer high-quality, durable prints and can handle a variety of substrates, including flexible films and pouches. Choose an ink specifically designed for flexible packaging materials to ensure proper adhesion and durability.
  2. Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) Printers:
    TIJ printers use heat to eject ink droplets from nozzles onto the flexible packaging surface. They produce high-resolution prints and are suitable for applications requiring fine details or smaller text. TIJ printers work well for printing expiry dates on various flexible packaging materials, such as plastic films and laminates. Select an ink that is compatible with the specific flexible packaging material for optimal results.
  3. Thermal Transfer Over Printer (TTO):
    TTO printers use heat and pressure to transfer ink from a ribbon onto the flexible packaging surface. This method provides high-quality, durable prints and is particularly suitable for printing on thin films and labels used in flexible packaging. TTO printers offer excellent print resolution and can produce sharp, clear text, barcodes, and graphics.

Print Expiry Date on Packaging Films

print expiry date on packaging

When selecting a method for printing expiry dates on flexible packaging, consider factors such as the packaging material, production speed, required print quality and durability, and the complexity of the design. Each method has advantages and limitations, so choose the one that best fits your needs and requirements.

To ensure successful expiry date coding and marking on flexible packaging, follow these best practices:

  • Choose the appropriate printer and ink/ribbon based on your packaging material and application requirements.
  • Regularly maintain and clean the printer to ensure consistent print quality and prevent downtime.
  • Test the adhesion, readability, and durability of the printed expiry date on the flexible packaging material before full-scale production.
  • Implement a quality control system to monitor and verify the accuracy of the printed expiry dates throughout the production process.

How does Laser Etching work?

Industrial laser etching on cardboard is a non-contact, efficient, and eco-friendly method. Furthermore, it can print expiry dates, QR codes, lot codes, and more directly on the product surface. It works by using a focused laser beam to create precise, high-contrast marks on the cardboard. Despite of highly intense laser beam, it does not cause damage or deformation to the cardboard.

Industrial laser marking on cardboard

  1. Choosing the appropriate laser:
    CO2 laser for etching on paper and cardboard materials due to their ability to produce high-quality marks with minimal damage to the substrate. The wavelength of CO2 lasers suits well for absorbing energy from organic materials like cardboard, which results in efficient and clean marking.
  2. Generating the design:
    Specialized software to create design, text, or code (such as an expiry date, QR code, or lot code). The software thereafter forwards the digital design to the laser system controller.
  3. Focusing the laser beam:
    The laser system particularly focuses the beam onto the cardboard surface for etching. This usually happens through a series of lenses or mirrors. The focused laser beam has a very high energy density, which enables it to selectively remove or alter the top layer of the cardboard material.
  4. Etching the cardboard:
    As the laser beam moves across the cardboard surface, it vaporizes or ablates the top layer of the material, creating precise and high-contrast markings. The process does not involve any ink or chemicals, making it an environmentally friendly option.

Advantages of using laser etching on cardboard

Laser etching is suitable for various applications, including marking on boxes of tobacco, perfumes, cereals, and many other products.

  • High precision and quality: Creates accurate, legible, and durable markings, even on small or intricate designs.
  • Fast processing speeds: Suitable for high-speed production lines, ensuring efficient operations.
  • Non-contact method: Laser etching printers do not physically touch the cardboard surface. Overall, it reduces the risk of damage or deformation to the packaging.
  • Eco-friendly: Eliminates the need for inks, solvents, and other consumables, reducing waste and environmental impact.

In general, laser etching is an effective marking technique for manufacturers looking to code on nonporous products.

What Can a Laser Mark On Paper?

Laser marking on paper packaging has become popular due to its precision, versatility, and eco-friendly nature. Here are some of the standard applications of laser marking on paper packaging:

laser mark on paper
  1. Barcodes and QR codes:
    In the first place, Laser coders can create high-resolution barcodes and QR codes directly on the paper packaging. Also, it allows tracking and inventory management of the finished product.
  2. Expiration dates and batch numbers:
    Laser marking can easily print expiration dates coupled with batch numbers on the packaging. In fact, ensuring accurate and legible data for consumers and manufacturers.
  3. Logo:
    Lasers marking printers can also mark logos and branding elements on paper packaging. Moreover, it enhances product presentation and brand recognition.
  4. Product information:
    Laser coders can print detailed product information, instructions, or warnings on paper packaging. In particular, it ensures clear communication with the end users.
  5. Serialization and unique identification:
    Lasers can create unique serial numbers or identification codes on paper packaging for security, anti-counterfeiting, and traceability purposes.
  6. Warning and Usage Instruction:
    Laser marking machines can directly mark warning signs and usage instructions on paper packaging. Indeed, adding an aesthetic appeal to the product.

Advantages of Laser marking on paper packaging

  • Non-contact method: Lasers marking machines do not physically touch the product surface, reducing the risk of damage or deformation to the packaging.
  • High precision and resolution: Lasers can create highly accurate and detailed markings, even on small or complex designs.
  • Fast processing speeds: Laser marking is suitable for high-speed production lines, ensuring efficient operations.
  • Eco-friendly: Laser marking eliminates the need for inks, solvents, and other consumables, reducing waste and environmental impact.

In summary, laser marking on paper packaging provides a versatile and eco-friendly solution for creating various types of markings, including barcodes, expiration dates, logos, product information, and decorative designs. This technology offers high precision, fast processing speeds, and reduced environmental impact, making it an attractive option for manufacturers and packaging companies.

laser mark on paper

How to print on bottle cap?

In the fast-paced beverage manufacturing industry, it’s imperative to have reliable and efficient printing solutions. That’s where Linx continuous inkjet printers and laser marking machines come in. With the ability to print on plastic and glass bottle caps, manufacturers opt for these printers gradually. Indeed, Linx printers offer an ideal solution for expiration dates and LOT codes. And with continuous printing capabilities from the top of the production line, there’s no need to slow down the process. So, whether you want to print expiry dates or etch intricate designs onto bottle caps, Linx has you covered.

print on bottle cap
print on bottle cap
print on bottle cap

In various industries, date/time and batch or lot numbers needs printing onto bottle caps instead of bottles or labels. But, as bottle caps present a challenge of small circumference and hard-to-code materials, finding an efficient solution can be difficult. Thankfully, with the right bottle coders, printing onto metal or plastic caps is possible and a breeze. Our bottle printing technology enables small character printing that is legible and readable throughout the product’s shelf life.

print on bottle cap

Inkjet Coder to Print on Bottle Cap

Inkjet coding is an efficient and precise way of printing information onto bottle caps. Whether it be expiry date, batch number, or QR codes. With the ability to continuous printing on fast-moving production lines, inkjet coders became crucial. Opting for solvent- or water-based inks depends entirely on the material and the desired print quality. The use of inkjet coders guarantees reliable and high-speed printing, ensuring that the production process runs smoothly and efficiently. As such, inkjet coding has become essential in the packaging industry.

Laser Marking Machine for Etching

Laser etching on bottle caps plays a vital role in the world of product labeling. The application of this technology makes it possible to accurately print or engrave expiry dates or LOT codes right onto the bottle cap itself. Unlike traditional printing methods, the laser etching process is non-contact and does not involve any ink. Indeed, the caps can last well beyond the life of the product. Bottle cap printing or etching is a reliable and cost-effective solution, especially for industries requiring strict adherence to regulatory guidelines. It ensures the protection of consumers by allowing manufacturers to keep track of their products lifespans and avoid potential hazards. Laser etching on bottle caps is an innovative and practical way to keep products safe, and consumers informed.

What is the best solution for Glass Bottle Coding?

Efficiency is essential when it comes to bulk coding on glass bottles. This is where inkjet coding and laser marking come in. With the use of continuous inkjet technology, printing onto glass bottles can be done at lightning speed without sacrificing precision. On the other hand, inkless laser coding uses etching and engraving technology to create characters on the surface of the glass. Both methods are perfect for glass bottle coding. Moreover, it can print important information like expiry dates and batch codes, making it easy to keep up with production demands. When it comes to high-speed production lines, Linx printers are the perfect choice for accurate and efficient printing on glass bottles.

Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) Printers for Glass bottle coding

CIJ printers specialize in coding on glass bottles because they can print directly on moving products on a production line. They offer high-quality, durable prints and can handle the curved surfaces of glass bottles. Choose an ink specifically designed for glass surfaces to ensure proper adhesion and durability.

Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) Printers

TIJ coding printers use heat to eject ink droplets from nozzles onto the glass bottle surface. They produce high-resolution prints and are suitable for applications requiring fine details or smaller text. As with CIJ printers, select an ink that is compatible with glass surfaces for optimal results.

Laser Marking Machines

Laser marking is a non-contact method that uses a focused laser beam for coding on the surface of glass bottles. This method provides high precision and durability, making it ideal for marking expiration dates. CO2 or UV lasers specialize in marking on glass bottle surfaces. Indeed, they offer excellent contrast and minimal damage to the substrate. Linx fiber laser can quickly provide etching and engraving of character on glass bottles. Moreover, these printers specialize in coding at high-speed production lines.

Which is the best printer for plastic bottle coding?

Linx-pigmented inks offer a durable option for coding on plastic bottle. Moreover, these printers can print batch numbers and expiry dates on various colored plastics. Indeed specializes in polyethylene (PE or PET), polypropylene (PP or OPP), PVC, and Nylon. These inks maintain clarity for years, even when exposed to daylight.

Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) Printers for Coding on Plastic Bottles

CIJ printers became popular for coding on plastic bottles because they can print directly on moving products on a production line. They offer high-quality, durable prints and can handle curved surfaces of various bottle materials, including glass, plastic, and metal. CIJ printers are suitable for high-speed production lines.

Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) Printers

TIJ coding printers use heat to eject ink droplets from nozzles onto the plastic bottle surface. They produce high-resolution prints and are suitable for applications requiring fine details or smaller text. TIJ bottle coding printers work well on various materials and can provide high-quality codes even at lower production speeds.

Laser Marking Machines

Laser marking is a non-contact method that uses a focused laser beam for coding on plastic bottle. This method offers high precision, durability, and flexibility, making it ideal for marking logos, barcodes, and other intricate designs. Laser marking machines work well on both glass and plastic bottles.


Linx Inkjet coding solutions allow manufacturers to print on plastic bottles easily. Moreover, Linx CIJ is capable of printing multiple line characters at a high-speed production line. Inkjet printers have more preference over laser marking machines in the plastic bottle industry. Considering the aspect of plastic getting damaged over high-intensity of heating through laser. Most of industries prefer black ink coding on bottles as the standard color. But at Linx, we have a variety of ink and fluids for catering to all the needs of the industrial market.