Wax-based LCM (Large Character Marking) printers have been a typical solution in many industries for their cost-effectiveness and high-quality print on materials like paper and cardboard. However, it’s essential to recognise that they come with limitations that may not suit every business need. On the flip side, ink-based high resolution LCM printers offer advanced capabilities that can address many of the shortcomings of wax-based solutions.
What is a Large Character Marking Printer?
An LCM printer is a type of industrial-grade printer that creates high-visibility markings on a variety of substrates. As the name suggests, these printers specialise in large characters, typically ranging from a half-inch to several inches in height. They are engineered to print information such as product names, lot numbers, expiration dates, and other essential details.
Typical Applications for Large Character Marking
LCM printers are invaluable in industries where packaging clarity is critical:
- Manufacturing: For adding product information to industrial goods and ensuring traceability throughout the supply chain.
- Agriculture: To label produce crates and bins with harvesting and shipping details.
- Building Materials: For marking construction supplies such as lumber, and concrete products.
- Chemical Industry: To apply safety information and handling instructions on chemical containers.
Choosing Between Wax-Based and Ink-Based LCM Printers
When selecting a Large Character Marking (LCM) printer, the decision between wax-based and ink-based models is crucial. While wax-based printers have their merits, ink-based high resolution LCM printers often provide superior advantages for a variety of applications.
Disadvantages of Wax-Based LCM Printers
- Durability Concerns: The prints from wax-based inks are less resistant to smudging, scratching, and environmental factors, which can be problematic for items needing long-term legibility.
- Print Speed Limitations: The output speed of wax-based printers might not keep up with the demands of high-volume or fast-paced production environments.
- Maintenance Requirements: Regular maintenance to prevent wax ink buildup on printheads can lead to increased downtime.
- Low Efficiency and Energy Consumption: The process of melting wax ink for printing may lead to higher energy use. This process also takes time for the wax to be heated, extending downtime on your production line.
In contrast, ink-based high resolution LCM printers emerge as a robust alternative capable of overcoming many of these challenges.
Advantages of Ink-Based LCM Printers
- Enhanced Durability: Ink-based printers typically use inks that are more resistant to smudging, moisture, and UV light, ensuring long-lasting legibility in various environments.
- High-Speed Capabilities: Designed for efficiency, ink-based models can keep up with the rapid pace of modern production lines, minimising delays and increasing throughput.
- Lower Maintenance: With less buildup than their wax-based counterparts, ink-based printers often require less frequent cleaning and maintenance.
- Better Energy Efficiency: Ink-based printers may consume less energy, as they do not need to melt wax, potentially leading to cost savings.
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Upgrading to Videojet Large Character Marking Technology
Upgrading to Videojet’s ink-based high resolution Large Character Marking (LCM) printers represents a strategic move for businesses seeking to enhance their coding and marking operations. Videojet, a leader in the field, offers state-of-the-art ink-based high resolution LCM printers that promise to deliver superior performance and reliability.
Key Benefits of Upgrading to Videojet Ink-Based High Resolution LCM Printers:
- Superior Print Quality: Videojet’s printers produce crisp, clear markings that are easily legible, ensuring that your products meet the highest standards for readability and compliance.
- Robust Durability: The advanced ink formulations used by Videojet are designed to withstand harsh environments, resisting smudging, moisture, and fading for long-lasting impressions.
- High-Speed Operation: Keep up with the demands of fast-paced production lines thanks to Videojet’s rapid-drying inks and high-efficiency printing mechanisms, reducing downtime and boosting productivity.
- Ease of Integration: Videojet’s LCM printers can be seamlessly integrated into existing production lines, with intuitive interfaces and connectivity options for a smooth transition.
- Reduced Maintenance: Engineered for reliability, these ink-based printers demand less maintenance, allowing for continuous operation and lower total cost of ownership.
Considering upgrading to Videojet Large Character Marking technology? View our latest high resolution LCM printer in the range, the Videojet 2380.
Conclusion
While wax-based LCM printers provide certain benefits, their limitations in durability, substrate compatibility, speed, maintenance, and energy consumption can be significant drawbacks for some operations. On the other hand, Videojet high resolution LCM printers offer a suite of benefits that cater to the needs of dynamic and varied production environments, emphasising durability, versatility, and efficiency.
Businesses must carefully consider the pros and cons of each printing technology to determine the best fit for their specific requirements. With the advanced capabilities of Videojet high resolution LCM printers, companies can enjoy greater flexibility and performance, ensuring that their labelling and coding processes are up to the challenge of today’s competitive market.
