Achieving optimal printing on cardboard packaging involves a combination of best practices. Selecting the right cardboard box printing technology, based on the specific application requirements, ensures accurate and durable markings. Using high-quality inks compatible with cardboard surfaces enhances adhesion and longevity. Positioning and calibrating printing equipment accurately, regular maintenance to prevent smudging, and testing prints on sample materials help maintain consistent and high-quality results. The table below summarizes best practices for printing on cardboard packaging.
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Printing on Cardboard Packaging: Best Practices
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1) Printing Technology
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✔ Inkjet Printing: Propels ink droplets toward the substrate
✔ Laser Printing: Creates a light beam to mark or engrave the substrate
✔ High-Resolution Case Coders: Propels oil-based ink droplets to create stark codes
✔ Print-and-Apply Label Machines: Auto-prints and applies labels to passing materials
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2) High-Quality Inks
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✔ Select inks compatible with cardboard surfaces for optimal adhesion and longevity
✔ UV-curable or solvent-based inks are suitable depending on the printing technology used
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3) Print Position and Quality
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✔ Ensure the printer is correctly calibrated and aligned for precise placement of codes
✔ Maintain and clean the printing equipment regularly to prevent smudging and maintain print quality
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4) Barcoding and Variable Data
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✔ Use barcodes for efficient tracking and inventory management
✔ Utilize variable data printing capabilities to include unique identifiers, batch numbers, manufacturing dates, and other relevant information
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5) Vision Inspection
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✔ Incorporate vision inspection systems to verify the accuracy and quality of printed codes to catch errors and ensure compliance
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6) Print Testing
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✔ Conduct print tests on sample cardboard materials to assess print quality and durability before full-scale production.
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7) Packaging Automation Integration
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✔ Integrate printing systems into the overall packaging automation process to enhance efficiency and reduce manual handling
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8) Training and Documentation
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✔ Train personnel on proper printing procedures and equipment maintenance
✔ Document standard operating procedures for printing and coding to maintain consistency
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By adhering to these best practices, manufacturers can ensure that their printing on cardboard packaging is accurate, durable, and compliant with industry standards. This contributes to effective product identification, supply chain traceability, and overall customer satisfaction.
InkJet, Inc’s Printing on Cardboard Packaging Solutions
InkJet, Inc. offers a range of coding systems, including continuous and thermal inkjet printers, high-resolution case coders, laser systems, and print-and-apply label machines to meet your cardboard box printing needs. There are distinct application specialties, specifications, and cost factors associated with each technology. Below is a table listing our various hardware options and their general specifications to print on carboard.
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InkJet, Inc.’s Printing on Cardboard Packaging Options
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Coding Technology
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Operating Method
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System Options
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Maximum Resolution and Print Height
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Maximum Marking Speed
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Cost Factors
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Continuous Inkjet Printer
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Propels pressurized ink droplets toward the substrate
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DuraCode Touchscreen, Keyboard, and Pigment
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70 DPI at 15 mm height
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320 m/min.
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Low to moderate unit cost, low consumable cost
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Thermal Inkjet Printer
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Uses heat to pressurize and eject ink droplets toward the substrate
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Anser U2 Models
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400 x 300 DPI (height varies by model)
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76.2 m/min
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Low unit cost, moderately consumable cost
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Anser A1
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600 x 600 DPI at 1” height (2” height with stitched print heights)
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300 m/min with HP cartridges, 150 m/min with IUT cartridges
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Moderate unit cost, moderate consumable cost
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Anser X1
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600 x 600 DPI at 1” height (2” height with stitched print heights)
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300 m/min
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Moderate unit cost, moderate consumable cost
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Laser Marking Solution
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Creates a concentrated light beam to mark or engrave the substrate
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F8100F Fiber, F8100C CO2, LDR 7100, and F8100U UV Laser Marking Systems
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Lenses up to 300mm x 300mm
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2,000 characters per second
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High unit cost, little to no consumables
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Hi-Res Case Coder
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Propels oil-based ink droplets to create stark codes
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Precision Series 18mm & 72mm
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180 DPI at 18 mm height or 72 mm height
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Low to moderate speed
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Moderate unit cost, low consumable cost
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Print-and-Apply Label Machine
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Auto-prints and applies labels to passing materials
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Evolabel
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300 DPI (height varies by printer model)
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60 m/min
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High unit cost, moderate consumable cost
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InkJet, Inc. also produces inks for printing on cardboard packaging. Numerous formulas are available in our comprehensive catalog to meet your printing needs.
We offer ink formulas with special properties, including:
- Superior substrate adhesion
- Ultra-quick dry times
- Sunlight resistance
- Fade resistance
- Rub resistance
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Soft/hard pigmentation
We carry aftermarket printer formulas for today's most popular printers. Compared to OEM options, our aftermarket options are more affordable, but they perform just as well. We also offer custom ink services for unique applications and situations.
InkJet, Inc’s printers, lasers, and print-and-apply label machines enable you to mark cardboard packaging more effectively. With our systems and high-quality ink options, you can streamline the printing process, comply with relevant regulations, and improve the visual appearance of your packaging.
