A: We provide a range of industrial coding technologies. The main types are Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) printers, Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) printers, and Laser coders. CIJ printers are great for ultra-fast printing on moving products (like printing dates on beverage bottles on a high-speed line). TIJ printers use replaceable cartridges and are excellent for high-resolution codes on porous surfaces like boxes or for lower-volume lines. Laser coders use a focused light beam to permanently mark the surface – ideal for products where you don’t want to use ink, such as marking lot numbers on glass or plastic that won’t rub off. We’ll recommend the best technology based on your product material, production speed, and the content you need to mark.

A: Automated coders can mark on virtually any common packaging material. We routinely set up systems to print on glass bottles, plastic containers (like HDPE, PET, PVC), metal cans or tubes, cardboard cartons, labels or film, and even on flexible packaging like pouches. The key is selecting the right printer and ink for the surface: for instance, using quick-drying alcohol-based inks on non-porous materials like metal or plastic, or special food-grade inks on food packaging. In cases where ink isn’t suitable, laser marking can directly etch or discolor the surface (like engraving a code on a plastic cap). During our consultation, we’ll ensure the chosen solution produces a durable, legible code on your specific material.

A: Yes. Kelgray’s coding/marking systems are designed to integrate smoothly into existing production lines, even high-speed ones. We use sensors and encoders to sync the printer’s activity with your line movement. For example, a sensor can detect an approaching product and trigger the printer at just the right time to mark it in the correct spot. The coding device can be mounted on your conveyor or at a transfer point, and it will print “on the fly” as products pass – meaning you don’t have to stop or slow the line. Our team configures the timing and positioning so that coding becomes a seamless part of the process. In short, you get accurate codes on each item with no impact on throughput.

A: Absolutely. We understand that codes like expiry dates or batch numbers must remain legible through the product’s lifecycle and meet any regulatory or quality standards. The solutions we provide are chosen to ensure durability – for instance, inks that are water-resistant or heat-resistant if your product later undergoes processes like pasteurisation or freezing. Laser markings, being etched, are inherently permanent. In terms of compliance, we make sure the code format (font size, placement, content) adheres to industry rules, such as pharmaceutical guidelines or retailer requirements. We can also include vision systems if needed to automatically verify that each code is present and readable. With Kelgray’s system, you can be confident that every product leaving your line has a clear code that won’t smudge or fade away.

A: Maintenance and consumables depend on the technology. Inkjet coders will require ink and solvent fluids; you’ll need to replenish these, and the printers have filters and printheads that benefit from regular cleaning and occasional replacement. Kelgray supplies the proper inks and parts, and our technicians train your team on basic upkeep like cleaning printheads to prevent clogs. Laser coders, on the other hand, don’t use ink, so they have less day-to-day consumable needs – typically just periodic cleaning of the lens and ensuring the cooling system is working. We offer maintenance plans to perform routine service on your coding equipment, whether inkjet or laser, to maximise uptime. And if anything goes wrong, our support team is ready to assist so you can get back to full operation quickly.

A: It depends on the type of information and your product. Direct coding (using inkjet or laser) is ideal for small, required details like dates, batch numbers, or simple barcodes – information that doesn’t require a large area or colour graphics. It’s fast and cost-effective for high volumes, and it doesn’t add any extra materials (no label stock). However, labels might be better if you need to display extensive information, branding, or if the surface isn’t suitable for printing. For example, a nutrition facts panel or a multi-language ingredient list would go on a label, whereas the expiry date and lot code could be printed directly on the product. Many operations actually use both: a printed label for branding and variable data coding for dates or serials. Kelgray can help with both solutions, and we’ll advise on the best approach or combination for your needs.