Markem-Imaje launches cost-effective inkjet printer for SMEs

The coder launched by Markem-Imaje has been specifically designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for high quality, yet cost-effective and hassle-free, product coding. According to the company, designed for low-to-medium duty operation up to‎ 4.4 m/s (14.4 ft/s), it is not only easy-to-use and maintain, it adapts easily as production ramps up. Intended for a wide range of industries, it claims to offer IP55 protection, making it suitable for many applications, including food and beverage.

Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation, is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems. Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, six technology centers, several equipment repair centers, and manufacturing plants strategically located worldwide, including India.

Manufacturers must code their products with information such as best-before-dates and lot numbers. Ensuring this data is of sufficient quality to remain legible throughout the product lifecycle is vital for traceability, stock management, and brand reputations, it said. For SMEs finding an easy-to-use coder that delivers this performance at an affordable price can grow with their business is a challenge. The company said this new launch meets these goals via proprietary technology, which ensures best-in-class performance and quality, regardless of the environment, without needing extensive in-house technical support.

User-friendly operation

Markem-Imaje said easy to install, use and maintain, the 9330 coder can be put anywhere because of its IP55 rated stainless-steel cabinet and features an automatic printhead cleaning system that makes start-ups simple and quick. All operators need to do is plug it in and start printing, even after weeks of storage. This feature makes the coder particularly useful for seasonal production, such as in coding fruit and vegetables.

Maintenance is made easy through its Intelli’Swap design which makes changing the M6′ all-in-one ink circuit so simple it can be done in less than six minutes, without spillage or waste. Operators click it out and in with the tool supplied.

Cost-efficient, best-in-class performance and quality

Uptime is high as the 9330 can print more than 8,000 hours before needing preventive maintenance. Its day-to-day operating costs are also kept low. The coder uses the latest generation hydraulic system, cutting additive consumption by up to 50% versus competitor models in the same category operating at 20 degreeC.

An extra advantage over similar competing CIJ options is its comprehensive Intelli’Ink portfolio, which gives users considerable flexibility when coding different materials and ensures optimal coding by maximizing the packaging’s suitability. A standard-priced MEK-free ink is even available, facilitating supply, compliance, and safety-related issues. Furthermore, the 9330 features a smart consumable system that requires no set-up and prevents costly operator mistakes resulting from cartridge-related errors.

Quality coding every time is further ensured by proprietary Intelli’Jet technology, which automatically adjusts ink pressure. A jet-speed sensor detects environmental temperature and the speed of specially charged drops between each print, with a control loop adapting the speed to ensure perfect drop placement, quality, and code consistency.

Long-term solution

Suitable for a single line and easy to scale up, the coder, according to the company, meets the needs of SMEs from the start-up to more advanced applications as their business develops. Printing on a wide range of media including plastics, cardboard, metal, foil, paper, and glass, it adapts to meet changing coding needs, now or in the future.

The 9330 also quickly links to the market-leading CoLOS information management system, allowing several coding devices to be managed through a single computer – suitable for maximizing efficiency and accuracy across multiple lines.

Continued performance is ensured by an extensive after-sales service offering, including spare part kits, consumables solutions, and service plans, including start-up packages, extended warranty contracts, service exchange programs, and all-inclusive agreements.