Batch Code Printing Machines
Code dates, lot numbers and variable traceability data on products and packaging.
Batch coding is the process of marking products or packaging with specific information such as expiration dates, serial numbers, and batch numbers for identification.
Batch code printing machines apply batch numbers, dates and other variable data to products and packaging. They support identification, traceability and production control across food, beverage, pharmaceutical, personal care and industrial applications.
At Macsa id, we assess the substrate, pack format, line speed, available coding area and code requirements before recommending a solution. This ensures that the technology fits the real production process rather than the other way around.
Batch coding solutions
Macsa offers a variety of batch coding machines tailored to distinct industry needs.
Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) Printers
CIJ printers operate by propelling tiny droplets of ink onto the surface to create codes. Ideal for high-speed production lines and providing non-contact, reliable coding on various surfaces. Their versatility in handling different ink types and offering customisable printing fonts and sizes makes them an ideal choice for industries requiring continuous, high-quality coding.
Ideal for printing on all materials, including plastics, metals, glass, paper, and cardboard.
Laser Printers
Renowned for their precision and adaptability, laser printers use laser technology to etch or mark surfaces. Their non-contact nature ensures clean, permanent codes without affecting the integrity of the material. Macsa’s Laser Printers excel in handling intricate designs, variable data, and high-resolution prints, making them indispensable for industries demanding accuracy and durability in coding.
Ideal for printing clear and precise codes on all materials including paper, cardboard, plastics, and certain metals.
Thermal Inkjet Printers
Thermal Inkjet Printers utilise thermal technology to produce high-resolution prints by heating and propelling ink onto surfaces. These printers excel in delivering crisp, clear codes on both porous and non-porous materials. Their adaptability to various inks and ability to produce high-quality codes swiftly make them a preferred choice for applications requiring intricate details and variable data.
Ideal for printing on porous materials like paper and cardboard, but certain models can also handle non-porous materials like plastic and coated metals.
What can batch code printing machines mark?
A batch coding system can apply human-readable and machine-readable information, including:
Batch and lot numbers.
Production, best-before and use-by dates.
Product references and serial numbers.
Barcodes, QR codes and Data Matrix codes.
Variable information linked to the production process.
Logistics data for outer cases and shipping units.
Where 2D codes support supply-chain traceability, their structure and quality should follow the applicable GS1 standards.
Choose the right batch coding technology
There is no single best batch code printer for every production line. The right technology depends on the material, code content, speed, operating environment and desired level of permanence.
Continuous inkjet, or CIJ, is suitable for high-speed coding on a wide range of product shapes and packaging materials. It can print batch data, dates and variable information on bottles, cans, cartons, pouches and other formats.
CIJ is often assessed where flexibility and fast-drying ink are important to the application.
Thermal inkjet printers offer high-resolution printing for text, graphics and 2D codes on compatible packaging surfaces. They are commonly considered for cartons, labels and applications that require clear variable data.
Laser coding creates a permanent mark directly on a suitable product or packaging surface. It is a non-contact solution that does not use ink or ribbon at the coding point.
It can be considered for applications that require durable codes, high-quality text or 2D identifiers. Explore our packaging laser coding solutions and industrial laser systems.
TIJ printing is a non-contact ink-based technology that heats ink forcing a droplet out of the printhead nozzle onto the printing surface.
- High resolution printers for sharp and clear images and text – especially useful for smaller characters
- Variable data printing allows for ease of customisation along the production line where each product may have unique information
- They are easy to use and operate in comparison to a CIJ printer, often requiring less operator training
Water-based inks can be advantageous for certain applications which may be required for regulatory purposes or for eco-friendly credentials.
In print and apply technology, codes are printed onto labels which are then automatically applied to the products or packaging.
- A great medium for variable printing where unique information is required on each label in real-time
- Their compact design make them fantastic where space is limited
- Print and apply systems are ideally suited to industries where products may undergo frequent packaging changes and therefore cannot use more permanent forms of marking
- Print and apply systems are ideally suited to industries where products may undergo frequent packaging changes and therefore cannot use more permanent forms of marking
- Label materials can vary from paper and film to synthetic materials
Not sure which solution is right for you?
Why Choose Macsa for Batch Coding Solutions?
With over 100 years’ experience as a world leader in coding, tracing and marking, we have developed batch coding solutions tailored to a wide range of sectors, materials and production environments.
Industry 4.0 Software
Our Integranet 4.0 software provides monitoring, predictive maintenance, remote assistance & support.
Sustainable & Innovative Solutions
Recognised as a world leader in technological innovation for laser technology use in marking and coding and pushing its agenda thanks to its sustainable credentials.
Integration
Seamlessly integrate into your existing production line, software and control systems for fully automatic operations.
Compliance
Fully compliant with CE, RoHSII, ISO9000 and FDA regulations.
Worldwide Presence
With presence in over 80 countries worldwide, Macsa can help you scale whilst remaining fully compliant with local legislation.
Guaranteed product
traceability
Our coding systems enable products to be identified throughout the entire length of the supply chain (‘from farm to fork’!), guaranteeing traceability.
Batch Coding Examples
Explore how our clients use our batch coding machines on a range of different materials to ensure efficiency and precision across their production systems.
Explore Other Coding Solutions
Improve the marking and coding of your company while reducing your environmental impact
Consumable free
Clean, waste free technology
Ecological
No harmful emissions. Good for the work environment and for the planet.
Clean
It will allow you to enjoy a cleaner and safer work space.
Energy efficient
Maximum quality and market speed with minimum energy consumption.
