How to Print Barcodes with a CIJ Printer?

Printing barcodes accurately and reliably is critical in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and logistics. Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) printers are a popular choice for barcode marking due to their high-speed performance and non-contact printing capabilities. Understanding how to correctly set up and operate your CIJ printer for barcode applications is key to achieving excellent results.

Can CIJ Printers Print Barcodes?

Yes, CIJ printers are capable of printing a wide variety of barcode types, including 1D barcodes (like Code 128, EAN-13) and 2D barcodes (such as Data Matrix and QR codes), depending on the printer model and software capabilities. However, CIJ barcodes are typically used for tracking, inventory, and identification purposes rather than retail point-of-sale scanning.

Steps to Print Barcodes with a CIJ Printer

1. Choose the Right Printer: Ensure your CIJ printer supports barcode fonts and has sufficient resolution (typically 48–80 dpi for basic barcodes).
2. Configure the Barcode Type: In the printer’s software, select the barcode symbology that matches your application needs.
3. Set Proper Dimensions: Adjust the barcode height, width, and module size according to industry standards (for example, narrow bar width of at least 0.25mm for readability).
4. Adjust Print Parameters: Fine-tune drop size, speed settings, and print delay to optimize barcode sharpness.
5. Test Print: Perform a sample print and verify the barcode using a barcode verifier or scanner.
6. Final Adjustments: Based on verification results, tweak parameters to ensure high readability and contrast.

Best Practices for CIJ Barcode Printing

• Use high-contrast dark inks (e.g., black on light-colored surfaces) for maximum scanner readability.
• Maintain proper substrate surface cleanliness and smoothness to avoid barcode distortion.
• Keep the nozzle and charge electrodes clean to prevent droplet misplacement.
• Ensure consistent product spacing and printhead alignment on the conveyor line.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Blurred Barcodes: Caused by incorrect print distance or excessive ink spread. Solution: Adjust standoff distance and ink formulation if necessary.
• Unreadable Codes: Often due to missing bars or irregular contrast. Solution: Recalibrate the printhead and clean the system.
• Distorted Codes: Typically a result of uneven conveyor speeds. Solution: Stabilize the transport system or use encoder-based printing.

FAQs

• Can CIJ printers print tiny barcodes? Basic barcodes are easy, but extremely high-density small barcodes are better suited to laser coders or high-resolution inkjet printers.
• Is barcode verification necessary? Yes. Regular scanning and verification ensure compliance with supply chain or regulatory standards.

Conclusion

With the right setup and maintenance, CIJ printers can deliver reliable barcode printing even in high-speed production environments. Careful attention to print settings, surface preparation, and quality control ensures readable, durable codes. Need expert advice on setting up barcode printing? Contact Cheef Inkjet at sales@cheef.cn!