Coding machine

Types of coding machines

A coding machine is a customized device used to print information such as batch numbers, warranty, expiry dates, and product names on products, especially food items, packaging materials, and labels. The following are some types of coding machines:

• Inkjet Coding Machines

  These machines use small, computer-controlled nozzles to spray ink onto a wide range of product surfaces in the form of letters, numbers, and symbols. Their application includes printing expiration dates, barcodes, and product information directly onto products or packaging.

• Laser Coding Machines

  Laser coding machines utilize focused beams of laser light to etch or mark information onto various materials. The materials may include plastic, metal, and cardboard. They offer a permanent marking solution with high precision and durability. The markings can include barcodes, logos, text, and other identifying information. One of the advantages of a laser coding machine is that they do not require ink or other consumables, which minimizes the maintenance cost.

• Hot stamp coding machines

  These machines are used to print labels, dates, times, lot numbers, and other information onto flexible packaging films, labels, and(cartons. They work by using a heated die to transfer ink onto the substrate. Sometimes, they may use foil to mark a package. One of the advantages of hot stamp coding machines is that they provide high-quality, legible prints that are resistant to smudging and rubbing.

• Ink coding machines

  An ink coding machine refers to any device that applies ink to a surface to convey information, usually involving the application of ink to a substrate or a specified area to communicate specific details. An ink coding machine is commonly referred to as an in-direct coding method. It involves applying ink to a substrate or specified area, usually transferring information onto that surface. The surface is then used to convey information, often involving the application of ink to seal, label, or mark a specified area. This may include printing dates, barcodes, labels, and other information.

• Pneumatic Coding Machines

  The machines are usually operated by compressed air. They are frequently used to print on bags, boxes, and labels. Their printing may include logos, product names, and batch numbers. Their setup is usually straightforward, with printing sticks or plates.

• Dot Peen Coding Machines

  A coding machine usually marks characters or images by driving pins to form dots on the material's surface. It has a pin driver and an impact head. The impact head has a grid of holes through which the pins are pushed by the driver in a specified pattern to form dots. The coding machines are typically used to print directly on metal surfaces, plastic, and other materials. Their marking might include serial numbers, logos, and other identification.

• Print and Apply Coding Machines

  A print and apply coding machine automatically prints and applies labels or marks to a product or surface. It usually integrates a printing unit and application mechanism, which enables it to print custom information such as barcodes, product labels, and expiration dates, and then apply the printed label to the desired location.

Specification and Maintenance

The following table summarizes the key features and specifications of a general coding machine.

• Printing Technology: This specifies the type of printing the machine uses. For example, it may use inkjet or laser printing.
• Print Speed: This indicates how fast the machine can print. It is usually measured in codes per minute.
• Print Resolution: This indicates the clarity of the print in terms of pixels. It may be mentioned in the form of L x W (e.g., 600 x 300 pixels)
• Maximum Print Width: This indicates the widest area of the surface the coding machine can print on.
• Compatibility: This specifies the material that the coding machine can work with. It could range from plastic, glass, metal, and others, depending on the manufacturer's specification.
• Machine Dimension and Weight: This specifies the height, length, width, and weight of the coding machine.

Maintenance

Generally, the maintenance procedure for coding machines will vary depending on the specific make and model. With that in mind, here are some general maintenance tips applicable to many coding machines:

• Clean regularly: Make use of a soft cloth to clean any dust or debris from the machine's surface. Avoid using damp or wet materials that could leave any residue in the machine.
• Lubricate moving parts: Look for the manufacturer's specified instructions and apply lubrication to the moving parts. Lubrication ensures the moving parts continue to function smoothly.
• Calibrate the machine: In most cases, coding machines require periodic calibration to ensure they are accurate. Follow the manufacturer guidelines and correctly calibrate the machines to maintain their precision.
• Replace worn parts: After some time, the coding machine may develop some areas of wear. These often impact the performance of the machines. Identify the areas of wear and replace the parts to maintain optimal performance.
• Follow manufacturer's instructions: The instructions may include information on maintenance schedules and specific procedures. Following the instructions will go a long way in preserving the efficiency and lifespan of the coding machines.

Uses of coding machines

Machine coding is extremely important because it is how product information, including date, identification, logos, pricing, and other pertinent information, is printed on the packaging, label, carton, and product. Customers use it to gain further product knowledge. This is especially true for food products, where the date printed on the packaging is used to determine if the product is still within its expiry date.

As the customer's demand for transparent product knowledge increases, the importance of machine coding increases. Retailers often want specific product information to be printed on the packaging or product with machines. This includes the following:

• The production or expiry date of the product.
• The price of the product when sold retail.
• Identification or SKU number of specific items.
• Barcode numbers that represent specific information pertaining to a certain product.
• Logos that stand for a brand.
• Any other pertinent information that a consumer or retailer may require.

In the past, coding used to be done by hand, but with the advancement of technology and the increased demand for mass-produced products, it is now done with machines that can code at lightning speed.

Machine coding is not just limited to products in the food industry but extends to the following:

• Packaging: Machines package all sorts of items looking for fast, efficient, and timely coding—everything from boxes, bags, bottles, and containers. A box coding machine is widely used in the packaging industry to print expiration dates, lot numbers, barcodes, and other relevant information necessary for the packaging, especially in the food and beverage industry. The information is usually required by law, and therefore, machine coding is legal compliance.
• Labeling: Products with labels, such as bottles, jars, cans, and containers, may require a machine coding label to print on it. This mostly includes items that require traceability, which includes but is not limited to food products, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products. Products often used with a coding label are bottles of drinks, chemicals, and medicine, to name a few. Not all coding labels are created equal, and some have to be made to withstand certain environmental conditions, such as being waterproof, smudge-proof, scratch-proof, or resistant to any such conditions.
• Barcode Printing: Barcode creation is often done through machine coding, especially for products in retail. Barcode scanners have now become an integral part of the retail experience, whether at the point of sale or when inventory is being accounted for. The code is what enables the database to pull information on the item and note if it is to be sold, discarded, or to be put in further investigation for details. SKU barcodes differentiate particular products, and when scanned, they provide specific product knowledge and details, including how many have been sold and how many are remaining in stock.

How to choose a coding machine

When choosing a coding machine, it is important to evaluate essential features and specifications to meet the packaging needs. First of all, customers should know the type of coding machines that suit the packaging materials. Considering the surface the code will be printed on is also essential. Irregular surfaces may require a different type of coding machine.

The required print quality and speed are also crucial.Businesses might consider a machine that can match their required speed while maintaining print quality. The amount of information to be printed, such as barcodes and logos, is another factor that determines the type of coding machine to choose from.

The integration of the coding machine with the existing production line is ideal to ensure a smooth workflow. Consider the maintenance requirement and availability of coding machine's spare parts when choosing a coding machine. It is also important to ensure the machine is easy to operate. Consider the machine's ability to produce high volume in a short time if large-scale production is required.

Lastly, if a business's requirement is to print in multiple languages, including foreign characters, the machine chosen should have that option. Remember, an ideal machine is one that meets the business's specific needs and requirements. It will be helpful if the buyer consults with an expert before purchasing a particular type of coding machine.

Coding machine FAQ

Q1: Which type of coding machine is commonly used for printing on boxes?

A1: Box cartons are usually coded using a coding machine called an inkjet printer. The machine is capable of printing high-quality codes on different types of carton materials. Furthermore, inkjet printers are versatile, fast, and efficient, making them suitable for coding large volumes of boxes in a short time.

Q2: How does a coding machine work?

A2: Generally, how a coding machine works depends on the type. Inkjet printers work by spraying tiny droplets of ink onto a substrate to form letters, numbers, and other characters. The print head moves back and forth across the surface, and the ink is released at precise intervals to create the desired message. On the other hand, thermal transfer printers work by applying heat to a ribbon, which then transfers ink onto the substrate in the desired shape.

Q3: Is it possible for a coding machine to print in multiple languages?

A3: Definitely. Many coding machines can print in multiple languages. Such machines have the ability to change the text being coded, including the language, font, and characters.

Q4: What is the difference between a coding and marking machine?

A4: Usually, the two terms are used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference. A coding machine refers to a device used to print codes on products in order to provide information. It can be a small handheld device or a complex automated system. A marking machine, on the other hand, is a device that puts permanent marks on an object. As a result, the marking is usually more robust and more permanent than coding.