Laser machine or industrial inkjet printer – which is best?

20 apr 2024
Laser machine vs industrial inkjet printer

Table of Contents

    In today's industrial environments, marking on products and packaging is crucial for traceability, quality assurance and brand promotion. Two of the most common solutions are lasermachines and industrial inkjet printersBut which technology is best for your needs? Let's compare these two options to help you make an informed choice.

    What is a laser machine?

    An industrial laser machine uses a focused beam of light to engrave or mark the surface of a material. It works by either melting, burning, or altering the surface layer of the material, resulting in a permanent code or marking.

    Laser machine Linx CSL series laser marking on PET bottles
    Laser machine Linx CSL series - Laser marking on metal
    Laser machine Linx CSL series - Laser marking on cardboard

    Advantages of laser machine:

    1. Permanent marking: The engravings are durable and resist abrasion, heat and chemicals.
    2. Maintenance-free operation: No consumables such as ink or solvents are needed.
    3. Precision and quality: Perfect for complex patterns and small text.
    4. Sustainability and environmental friendliness: No use of chemicals and minimal energy consumption.

    Cons:

    • Higher initial cost compared to inkjet printers.
    • Limited to materials that can be processed with a laser (e.g. metal, plastic and glass).
    • Requires technical expertise for installation and configuration

    Linx Laser Machine for the Production Line

    What is an industrial inkjet printer?

    An industrial inkjet printer works by spraying microscopic droplets of ink onto a surface to create text, codes or graphics. The technology is particularly useful for rapid coding on moving production lines.

    Industrial inkjet printer - Large print - Linx IJ355/375
    CIJ - labelling on food packaging
    Industrial inkjet printers - CIJ

    Advantages of inkjet printers:

    1. Flexibility: Can write on almost any material, including cardboard, plastic, metal and glass.
    2. Lower initial cost: An affordable option for smaller companies or shorter production runs.
    3. High speed: Capable of marking products at a rapid pace without slowing down the production line.
    4. Easy to install and use: Requires less technical expertise compared to laser printers.

    Cons:

    • Regular need for ink and solvents, which increases operating costs.
    • Less durable markings compared to laser, especially on materials exposed to abrasion or chemicals.
    • May require more maintenance, such as cleaning nozzles and replacing consumables.

    Read more: What is an industrial inkjet printer?

    Inkjet printer from Markoprint – X1 Jet

    Comparison between laser machine and inkjet printer

    Other specificationsLaser machineIndustrial inkjet printer
    Marking qualityExtremely high, permanentGood, but dependent on material and ink quality
    Material compatibilityLimited to laser-machinable materialsAlmost all types of materials
    SpeedVery highVery high
    Operating costsLow (no consumables)Higher (ink and solvent needed)
    Initial costHigherLight
    MaintenanceMinimalRegular
    Sustainability and environmentVery environmentally friendlyRequires chemicals (solvents and inks)
    IntegrationRequires technical knowledgeEasy to integrate

    Which one should you choose?

    The choice between a laser machine and an industrial inkjet printer depends on your specific needs, including production size, material type, and long-term cost considerations.

    Choose a laser machine if:

    • You need permanent and durable marking.
    • You work with materials such as plastic, metal or glass.
    • You want to reduce operating costs and chemical use.
    • You have a high initial budget and are looking for a long-term solution.

    Choose an inkjet printer if:

    • You work with a variety of materials and packaging.
    • You have a limited budget for initial investments.
    • You need high production speed and flexibility in marking.
    • You handle products that do not require durable marking.

    Both laser machines and industrial inkjet printers are effective solutions for marking and coding, but their strengths lie in different areas. If durability, precision and low operating costs are most important, a laser machine is the best choice. However, if you prioritize flexibility, lower initial cost and quick setup, an inkjet printer is a better fit.

    Do you need help choosing the right solution for your production? Contact us to know more about our laser machines and industrial inkjet printers!

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