How a Continuous Inkjet Printer Works
A continuous inkjet printer forces ink through a printhead nozzle, forming a stream of droplets. Selected droplets receive an electrical charge and are directed onto products or packaging. Unused ink returns to the system. This allows a CIJ printer to apply variable information without contacting the printing surface.
For manufacturers selecting an industrial inkjet printer, understanding this process helps frame questions about substrates, messages, consumables, and production requirements.
People Also Ask
Why is continuous inkjet printing called “continuous”?
The name refers to the continuous stream of ink droplets produced during operation. Selected droplets form the printed message, while unused droplets return to the system. It does not mean the printer applies ink to the product continuously between messages.
How do manufacturers choose a continuous inkjet printer?
Selection depends on substrate, production speed, print quality needs, and budget. Message size, print placement, and operating conditions also matter. All Pro Technical Service evaluates these requirements to recommend suitable equipment, ink, and supporting accessories.
What Is a Continuous Inkjet Printer?
Continuous inkjet printers apply information such as expiration dates, batch numbers, serial numbers, barcodes, and graphics during production.
The term “continuous inkjet coder” describes the same equipment’s coding function. The printer is programmed to print on each product as it passes by on the production line.
Industrial continuous inkjet printers are used across food and beverage, automotive, pharmaceutical, and wire, pipe, and cable applications.
How Does CIJ Printing Work Step by Step?
1. Ink Flows Through the Printhead Nozzle
Ink is supplied under pressure and forced through the printhead nozzle. The stream breaks into small droplets used to create the printed message.
2. Selected Droplets Receive an Electrical Charge
The printer controls the charge applied to droplets according to the message being printed. Different charges direct droplets to different positions.
3. Droplets Form the Printed Message
An electric field deflects charged droplets toward the product. Their placement forms the dots that make up characters and codes as the product moves past.
4. Unused Ink Returns to the System
Droplets not needed for printing are collected and recirculated. The process continues while the ink stream operates. All Pro Technical Service describes this process in its industrial inkjet printer overview.
What Determines Whether Printing Suits the Application?
The printing method is only part of equipment selection. All Pro Technical Service evaluates the product, substrate, production speed, print quality needs, and budget.
The intended message also matters. Manufacturers should explain:
- What information must be printed
- The number of lines in the message
- Where the code should appear
- The available print area
- Relevant plant conditions
For bottles, placement may involve the lid, shoulder, side, or bottom. These details help All Pro Technical Service recommend appropriate equipment and ink.
What Inkjet Printer Supplies Are Needed?
Inkjet printer supplies include ink and makeup fluid (solvent) appropriate to the printer. Use OEM consumables or alternatives recommended by All Pro Technical Service.
Ink selection should reflect the equipment and substrate. A product described as compatible should not be assumed suitable without checking the application.
All Pro Technical Service also supplies accessories such as printhead stands, photocells, encoders, and alarm beacons. Requirements depend on the production arrangement.
How Does Leibinger’s Nozzle Sealing Work?
Leibinger’s automatic nozzle sealing technology closes the ink circuit during production breaks, helping prevent ink from drying at the nozzle. This reduces daily cleaning requirements.
Automatic sealing does not replace manufacturer-recommended Preventative Maintenance. Service planning considers usage, ink type, equipment type, and plant environment.
Discuss an Industrial Inkjet Printer With All Pro Technical Service
All Pro Technical Service sells, services, and supports Leibinger continuous inkjet printers. Equipment recommendations consider the printer’s features, the customer’s application, and the budget.
Share sample messages and product details when discussing a new printing application.
Review the available products and contact All Pro Technical Service to discuss printing requirements. For ongoing support, read what continuous inkjet printer service includes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a CIJ printer touch the product?
No. Ink droplets travel from the printhead to the surface without the printhead contacting the product.
Can a CIJ printer print barcodes and graphics?
Yes, depending on the printer and application. Discuss the required code, graphic, print size, substrate, and production speed before selecting equipment.
What details are needed for printer support?
Provide the manufacturer, model, serial number, and displayed message. If no message appears, say so. Include a description of the issue.