Plastic marking

Challenges in Plastic Marking and Labeling

✔ Material Diversity

Different types of plastics (e.g., PE, PP, ABS, PVC) have varying surface properties requiring special adaptation of the printing or marking process.

✔ Adhesion and Durability

Some plastics are difficult to print on due to low surface energy or special additives.

✔ Abrasion and Chemical Resistance

Markings must often withstand cleaning agents, UV radiation, or mechanical stress.

✔ Thermal Sensitivity

Some plastics deform or discolor at high temperatures, which can be problematic for laser marking.

✔ Color Contrast and Readability

Readability of markings can be limited, especially on transparent or dark plastics.

✔ Production Speed

High-volume manufacturing processes require fast and efficient marking systems without workflow interruptions.

✔ Cost-Effectiveness

Choosing the optimal method must consider cost and benefit, especially for large quantities or customized products.

Applications for Carton Marking

Plastic marking is indispensable in many industries. In the automotive industry, components such as dashboards and cable sheathing are labeled with serial numbers or logos. In medical technology, plastic products must be sterilization-resistant and permanently marked. The packaging industry uses markings for expiration dates and barcodes, while the electronics industry labels plastic housings and cables with technical information. In logistics, plastic containers and pallets are marked with barcodes or RFID tags for tracking purposes.

Overview of Key Plastic Marking Technologies and Their Advantages

Laser Marking

Advantages

Contactless, precise marking
Permanent, abrasion-resistant marking
No additional consumables required
Environmentally friendly as no ink or solvents are needed
Tamper-proof

Applications

Electronic housings (e.g., phone cases, keyboards), automotive parts (e.g., switches, dashboards), medical instruments (e.g., syringes, surgical instruments)

Laser Marking Solutions

Inkjet Printing

Advantages

High printing speed
Flexible application for serial numbers, date, or batch codes
No pre-treatment of plastic required
Cost-effective for changing print content

Applications

Packaging (e.g., expiration date on PET bottles), electronic components (e.g., circuit boards, connectors), cable marking

Continuous Inkjet Systems

Thermal Transfer Printing (TTO)

Advantages

High resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and moisture
Suitable for labels on plastic surfaces
Precise print quality
Long-lasting marking durability

Applications

Nameplates on machines, laboratory labels for sample containers, barcode labels for logistics pallets

Pad Printing

Flexible for Variable Data

Advantages

Suitable for uneven or curved surfaces
High print quality and color variety
Cost-efficient for large quantities
Fast drying and good adhesion

Applications:

Plastic buttons (e.g., remote controls, switches), toys (e.g., building blocks, dolls), promotional items (e.g., pens, USB sticks)

Hot Stamping

Advantages

High-quality, durable marking
Resistant to weather influences
Suitable for decorative applications
No drying time required

Applications

High-end plastic products (e.g., brand names on cosmetic packaging), dashboard markings, household appliances (e.g., control panels of coffee machines)