New GS1-compliant laser coders and thermal transfer overprinters in the spotlight

Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dover Corporation, offers the most comprehensive range of marking and coding systems, seamlessly integrated with software that meets the highest requirements for traceability and brand protection. At Empack, the specialist unpacked solutions that perfectly meet the current demand for GS1-compliant 1D and 2D codes with the GS1 Digital Link. For example, Markem-Imaje presented innovative SmartLase® fiber and CO2 laser coding systems and also highlighted the SmartDate® family of thermal transfer overprinters (TTO) and CoLOS® software.

CO2 and fiber laser coders

Laser coding is gaining in popularity, and Markem-Imaje is cleverly capitalizing on it. Thus, the company introduced its most advanced CO2 laser coder. The SmartLase® C600 Series guarantees sharp, permanent codes of superior quality in high-speed applications on the most demanding packaging lines - even with the increasing code complexity of 1D and 2D codes. This system delivers high-quality, chemical-free permanent coding on PET bottles, glass, labels, candy labels, flexible film, inked paper or cardboard, coated metals and more. These robust coders are super-fast, secure, virtually maintenance-free and Industry 4.0 ready. In addition to standard models, the series also includes special versions for use in tight spaces or for wide print areas.

Another eye-catcher at the booth was the SmartLase® F250 20-watt fiber laser, which, like the CO2 laser coders in the SmartLase® C600 series, delivers outstanding code quality at high speeds. This coding system is compact, safe, powerful and intelligent. It is especially ideal for coding on metal and plastic packaging to create indelible complex 1D and 2D codes that meet traceability and other high-speed needs.

Thermo-tranfer overprinter

Markem-Imaje has also been one of the pioneers in thermo-transfer coding technology for 30 years. With the extensive range of industrial thermo-transfer overprinters of the SmartDate® series, one prints high-quality codes on flow-wrappers, bags, trayseals, pouches, vacuum packs or labels. They are easy to operate and effortlessly achieve the highest production speeds on flexible film packaging. They are also easy to install in production lines and their automation environment. Markem-Imaje recently introduced the innovative SmartDate® Xtra 3530 and Xtra 3750 ribbons, ideal for printing legible codes on flexible paper-based ecological packaging. At Empack, the specialist already put the SmartDate® X65 on display.

Software

Finally, Markem-Imaje also demonstrated its proprietary CoLOS© software, compatible with all print hardware, all major production systems and ERPs. This package maximizes efficiency and output on the shop floor and ensures that packaging and coding solutions are accurate and traceable, protecting brands. "In our society, manufacturers must not only produce good quality products, but also be able to trace them throughout the supply chain. It is crucial that products and packaging are coded with the latest technology that ensures print durability and traceability," concludes one at Markem-Imaje.