Cartons and labels
Test porous and coated surfaces with the proposed ink for contrast, drying and durability.
Thermal inkjet coding
TIJ Printer
Evaluate cartridge-based variable coding for cartons, labels and selected packaging around substrate, ink, print gap, product handling and data requirements.
- Starting formatsCartons, labels and selected packaging
- Code definitionText, date, batch and machine-readable data
- Critical proofInk, substrate and print-gap test
- Line inputsMotion, trigger, mounting and data
Best fit
Where TIJ coding can be evaluated
TIJ can be a useful starting point when the printable surface, product path and printhead distance can be controlled.
Variable content
Define text, dates, batch data, barcodes or 2D codes and their required readable size.
Controlled product path
Maintain stable product orientation, print gap, trigger timing and access to the print position.
Engineering selection
Treat printhead, ink and handling as one system
The final code depends on substrate response and stable mechanical presentation as much as the printer.
- Identify material, colour, coating, surface energy and package format.
- Define content, print area, code size, orientation and readability target.
- Record product motion, speed or cycle, spacing and trigger method.
- Confirm print gap, mounting, alignment, access and cable routing.
- Define data source, operator workflow, cartridge handling and acceptance criteria.
Evidence boundary: No ink, cartridge, resolution, speed or interface capability is claimed until supported by approved DANAPR documentation and an application print test.
Qualification workflow
Verify print quality under line conditions
Use representative products and a stable handling setup before approving the configuration.
Substrate
Collect each material, colour, coating and package format.
Print test
Assess contrast, drying, adhesion, readability and target artwork.
Line review
Confirm motion, print gap, trigger, mounting, data and operator access.
Acceptance
Document the approved code, position, cartridge and production conditions.
Process comparison
TIJ, CIJ, TTO or laser?
Compare technologies around the real package, code and production process.
| Requirement | Common starting point | Proof needed |
|---|---|---|
| Controlled carton or label coding | TIJ printer | Ink response, print gap, code area and handling |
| Moving product with variable non-contact code | CIJ printer | Ink adhesion, drying, print distance and environment |
| Flexible film before final package formation | TTO or packaging-specific process | Film, printable area, ribbon/process and machine integration |
| Permanent mark without ink | Laser marking | Material response, heat effect, guarding and extraction |
Qualification limits
When not to choose TIJ coding
Another process may fit better when the surface, print gap or production environment cannot support the proposed TIJ setup.
- No tested ink meets the adhesion, drying, contrast or durability target.
- The product path cannot maintain a suitable print gap or orientation.
- The code area or format is outside the approved configuration.
- The cartridge and maintenance workflow does not fit the operating environment.
- CIJ, TTO, laser or another process performs better in the approved trial.
FAQ
TIJ printer questions
What is a TIJ printer commonly used for?
Thermal inkjet is commonly evaluated for variable coding on cartons, labels and selected packaging or product surfaces where the substrate, ink, print gap and line handling can be controlled.
How should a TIJ cartridge and ink be selected?
Use the exact substrate and production conditions to test contrast, adhesion, drying, durability and code readability. Cartridge and ink selection must follow approved technical documentation.
Why is print gap important for TIJ coding?
Print quality can depend on stable product presentation and the distance between the printhead and surface. The acceptable gap must be confirmed for the proposed configuration.
When should TIJ be compared with CIJ?
Compare both when substrate, code area, line motion, print distance, ink performance, consumable workflow, maintenance and integration requirements are known.
Related pages
Continue the coding review
Have packaging ready for a print test?
Share the substrate, code, print area and production conditions with DANAPR Marking.