Why Laser Marking is Replacing CIJ Printing

For years Continuous Ink Jet printing (CIJ) has dominated the industrial sector for coding applications but laser marking is fast replacing this technology. Why? Let’s find out…

Laser marking vs cij printing

Laser Marking Technology

During recent years, laser marking technology has seen a significant improvement in both performance and reliability simultaneous to a lowering of prices. These advancements now make laser marking a viable alternative to CIJ.

In terms of the code itself, laser marking offers many advantages over CIJ…

Laser marking & CIJ

What are the Differences?

The CIJ process utilises ink, which as a consumable is costly to purchase over time and the printing heads of CIJ must be constantly cleaned and/or replaced too. A laser marker has no consumables, so running costs are far lower, as is the requirement for maintenance.

The low requirement for maintenance of a laser marking machine can mean that it’s a far more reliable method compared to CIJ and the fact that the laser uses no ink makes the laser marking process more environmentally responsible too.

Logo Application

The Better Solution

In cases where the mark requires the application of logos as well as simple coding, the laser is often a better solution. CIJ is very limited as to what type of mark it can produce and over what area but a laser marking machine can deliver a wide variety of graphic formats, from logos and barcodes to simple text and over a much bigger area than a CIJ can apply.

For the mark itself, a laser mark is permanent and difficult to counterfeit. CIJ is quite the opposite; for example, when coding milk cartons by CIJ, it is common for the mark to rub off as the carton is exposed to temperature changes, condensation and wear. A laser mark is resilient to such things.

laser marking

For Production Lines

A laser marker can also be easier to integrate into production lines. With CIJ the head is commonly positioned close to the surface to which it is printing. With a laser marking machine it is possible to place the beam deflection unit (sometimes known as the scan head) several hundred millimetres away from the product being marked.

anti-counterfeiting

Increasing the Value

A laser mark can add significantly to the perceived value of the item itself. For example, for a recent project we configured a fiber laser marking machine to brand stainless steel razor blades. Historically the blades were marked by CIJ. The aesthetic of the laser mark was significantly better, raising the perceived value of the item itself and addressing the counterfeiting issue our customer was having with their product marked by CIJ.

Laser Marking vs CIJ

Better for Business

CIJ is a single process solution; i.e. it is simply a surface print. In some cases it’s possible for the laser to code and produce other processes at the same time such as, for example, perforation of packaging or cutting of thin films.

At Lotus Laser Systems we manufacture a wide range laser marking and engraving solutions ideally configured for laser cutting, laser marking and laser engraving all types of materials. Our experts would be happy to recommend which configuration best suits your application.

MACHINE

Recommendations

Whether you’re an industrial manufacturer or a small business, we have the laser marking solution to suit your needs. From laser etching glasses to marking suspension parts, our laser machines are designed to do it all.

Lotus Meta-C Fiber Laser Engraving Machine

Meta-C 3D • Fiber Laser Engraving Machine

The Meta-C Fiber Laser Engraver is the best solution for laser marking and engraving stainless steel, plastics, aluminium, and much more. It guarantees you accurate, durable and high-contrast markings on metals and plastics to a standard other machines just cannot do. • Built for 24/7 industrial use over decades • Perfect for traceability, QR codes, barcodes, and logos • Ultra-precise engraving for incredible detail and accuracy

Power: 30w, 60w, 80w, 200w

Ideal for: Traceability, Serialisation, Part Marking, QR Codes, Logos

Materials: Steel, Aluminium, Titanium, Brass, ABS Plastic

Lotus Meta-C 3D UV Laser Engraving Machine

Meta-C 3D • UV Laser Marking Machine

The Meta-C UV laser engraver is the best laser for marking glass, plastics, and much more. It uses UV technology to create an amazing finish across glass surfaces without cracking or damaging the glass, and can mark plastics & silicone with pristine clarity. • Ultra-high detail on any material • World-leading glass marking that far surpasses CO2 etching • Leaves surface marks with no damage or ablation

Power (W): 5, 10, 15

Ideal for: PCBs, Electronics, Components, Branding, and much more

Materials: Glass, Plastics, Wood - Almost Everything!

µMeta • MOPA Fiber Laser Marking Machine

The Lotus µMeta is an incredibly powerful fiber laser engraver with a small footprint. Perfect for marking steel, aluminium, ABS plastic, titanium, and more: this fiber laser is the ideal solution for any engineering or part making workshop. • Unmatched performance and functionality • Compact powerhouse with 17 waveforms • Ideal for colour marking and engraving tough materials

Power (W): 30, 60

Worktable (mm): 300 x 300

Materials: Most Metals, Stone, Some Plastics

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Why Laser Marking is Replacing CIJ Printing

Laser Marking Technology

What are the Differences?

The Better Solution

For Production Lines

Increasing the Value

Better for Business

Recommendations

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	Mark	Engrave	Cut	Compatible Materials
MOPA Fiber				Metals, Some Plastics, Leather, Stone, Anodised or Painted Materials
CO2 Laser				Wood, Some Plastics, Textile, Leather, Paper, Stone, Laminates
UV Laser				Everything (almost)