The new CO2 laser series K-1000 are space-saving bundles of power. Thanks to their compact design with integrated controls, they are the smallest devices of their type and can be integrated straightforwardly into any production line. They are equipped as standard with a high-speed write head and can mark products intermittently or continuously. Laser marking is a reliable and environmentally friendly solution which requires no consumables. It is ideal for cost-effective and long-lasting direct marking of ceramic, paper, cardboards, wood, glass and plastics without a color wrapper. For marking plastics with a color wrapper or for long-lasting gravure printing on metals, the YAG lasers in the L-5000 series are available.

The high-performance K-1000 SP range of models was devised with its design and function geared specifically for standard marking such as batch numbers. Data entry and configuration are managed via a pocket terminal or touch-screen terminal. For data transfer, an RS 232 interface is available.

The wide range of options for the K-1000-Plus series also provides for complex applications such as graphics, logos, bar-codes and data matrix codes, in addition to standard marking; and for marking especially thin materials, special fonts such as the Crystal Font are available. This laser system is able to satisfy even the exacting requirements of the pharmaceutical sector (as set out in 21 CFR Part 11). In addition to the RS 232 interface protocol, an Ethernet protocol is also available for all models, allowing simple integration of the laser systems into existing networks and connection to merchandise information systems.

In addition to the new K-1000 laser system, KBA-Metronic is exhibiting the proven alphaJET C printer. The freely programmable alphaJET C prints contact-free using the continuous inkjet method. Thanks to the 48-dot matrix, the print head of the alphaJET C can print up to six lines and the individual lines can also be shifted pixel by pixel. Superscript and subscript characters are thus also possible in multi-line texts. Furthermore, the text can also be applied in a 90 degree rotated position. Thanks to this unique resolution, even the highest demands in terms of resolution, print image and font quality can be satisfied.

This precision makes it possible to apply pinpoint-sharp data matrix codes using the alphaJET C as well. After all, 2-D marking is becoming increasingly important worldwide in all industries, including the pharmaceuticals and food packaging industries, in the pursuit of comprehensive quality and safety standards. Compared to a one-dimensional bar-code, a data matrix code allows for 10 x more information to be stored for a given area. This means, for example, that each individual package can be marked using a unique identification number, allowing for its route through the logistics chain to be traced continuously (track-and-trace). Track-and-trace thus also assists in protecting global logistics landscapes, and is increasingly required by law.

To guarantee the machine readability of these 2-D codes, the individual points of the data matrix code must be printed extremely accurately. At the same time, however, marking needs to be executed quickly and cost-favorably, so as not to impact negatively on production flow. All these requirements are satisfied problem-free using the alphaJET C, which can print a 26 x 26 matrix size.

If, for design reasons or due to other aspects of marketing strategy, the data matrix code needs to be invisible, then a special UV tint can be used – with the result that the marking only becomes visible under UV light.

Markus Walsdorf, Marking Products Sales Manager for Germany, sees KBA-Metronic AG as a solutions-oriented full service provider to the automation sector: “With the various options for laser and inkjet marking solutions, KBA-Metronic has established the basis for responding to specific needs of the sector. We will continue to only offer top quality in the future, guaranteeing long-term customer benefits for companies and continuing to utilize the synergy effects available to us as a holistic provider for printing and marking technology.”

www.motek-messe.de

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