Nottingham-based coding specialist Clearmark Solutions (Interactive Coding Equipment - ICE) has launched an innovative thermal inkjet coder, ideally suited to the packaged food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, that is able to print consistent high-resolution codes on hard to print surfaces.

The new ICE Scorpion offers the ease of use and cartridge changeovers of traditional thermal inkjet technology but also incorporates a unique Cartridge Readiness System™. This special high-speed shutter system prevents ink from drying in the nozzle, meaning that the coder can still deliver clean, repeatable quality codes even after a long stoppage. This enables the Scorpion to cope with any delays or interruptions in production with no loss of code quality.

The high-performance MEK ink is able to print high-resolution text, barcodes and graphics at speeds of up to 102 metres per minute onto a wide range of non-porous substrates including films, foils, plastics and coated stocks. Codes can be up to 13.5mm tall per printhead at resolutions four times greater than continuous inkjet technology.

The Scorpion also offers the flexibility to print on the top of a pack or horizontally on the side of a box. A simple cartridge change can be achieved in less than 15 seconds.

In addition, two independent printheads can be used to provide print when required, providing up to 27.0mm print height so that more content can be printed.

The new technology also reduces downtime for maintenance with only an occasional wipe of the print array and the shutter required. An easy to learn CLARiTY touchscreen interface provides step-by-step guidance and job set up, while there are no calibration procedures or tuning required.

The rugged, industrial design means the Scorpion can withstand a range of challenging production environments. No pumps, pressurised system or compressed air further enhance reliability and there are no wear parts that require periodic replacement.

“The Scorpion has greatly widened the potential for thermal inkjet technology across a wide range of markets and applications,” comments ICE director Chris Simpson. “Its reliability and ease of use make it ideal for any production environment.”