Laser marking technology is no longer new. However, its popularity only increased a few decades ago and became widely used in the manufacturing and packaging industries. Its applications have been expanded and its design has undergone modifications to meet changing requirements.
One of the innovations in laser marking technology is the laser date coding machine which is a staple in the manufacturing industry. If you are still contemplating or undecided, this article shares some points that will assess your readiness to invest in a laser date coding machine plus some of the important facts you need to know.
What is a laser date coding machine?
Date coding is essential in the manufacturing industry. It must be used in food products, bottled beverages, electronic products, pharmaceuticals, and more. To meet this requirement in a sustainable manner, laser date coding machines have been developed. They are safe for humans and the environment and provide a modern way to meet date coding requirements.
Other important benefits associated with a laser date coding machine include:
- High-speed coding capabilities
- Accuracy
- Highly-legible codes
Factors to Consider When Investing in a Laser Coding Machine
Manufacturing Requirements
A laser date coding machine can mark substrates at a high speed. With its capability, large-scale manufacturing can easily be completed. Products will be marked with codes and texts to allow industry regulations compliance and traceability.
However, this high-speed feature may only be appreciated by companies with tens of thousands of products to produce. Thermal inkjet printers may be more suited for those whose manufacturing processes don’t require top-speed coding.
Upfront Costs
A laser date coding machine may be more expensive than a CIJ printer. They come at a price and you have to prepare a significant upfront investment.
The good news is, laser date coders are cost-effective. They may be more expensive than CIJs or TIJs but their ongoing costs are comparably lower than other industrial marking machines.
- Laser date coding machines do not require frequent maintenance
- These machines last longer without professional maintenance services.
- The change of filter in laser date coding machines aren’t as frequent as other infustrial machines
- Even though laser date coders are relatively expensive upfront, they do have fewer ongoing costs than other industrial marking machines.
- With laser date coding machines, you don’t have to worry about consumables. Basically, they function with electricity alone.
Space in the Facility
Although laser date coding machines are lighter in weight and less spacious than continuous inkjet printers and thermal inkjet printers, a safe space must be provided to ensure that it won’t bring hazard to the people in the manufacturing facility. Some laser systems emit radiation and fumes that may threaten workplace safety.
ALSO READ: Why Manufacturers Need Continuous Inkjet Printers this Peak Season
Laser date coding machines are worthy investments. If you haven’t decided yet if you should upgrade to this type of industrial equipment, consider some of the essential factors that can help you arrive at a good decision and determine if a laser date coder is the right option for you.
Start the year right. Elixir Industrial Equipment, Inc. offers manufacturing solutions that meet industry requirements. Check out our laser coders so we can help improve your processes.