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Coding, the Invisible Signature of Production Quality
Every second on the production line is precious. However, producing a product not only quickly but accurately and traceably is an integral part of the quality chain. This is where two technologies come into play: laser marking and inkjet coding .
Both methods can print dates, serial numbers, batch codes, QR codes, or Data Matrix on products. However, which technology is more suitable for each industry directly impacts both quality and cost.
In this article, we compare laser marking and inkjet coding in terms of technical, economic and application aspects and how Electrojet Technology guides you to the right solution .
1. Laser Marking: The Technology of Permanence
Laser marking creates permanent marks without touching the surface. It uses light energy to alter or burn the surface material, creating a visible code.
Advantages
Permanence: The code will not fade or deteriorate throughout the life of the product.
Consumable-free operation: No ink, solvents, or labels required.
High contrast: Clear readability even on hard surfaces such as metal, plastic, and glass.
Low maintenance: No head cleaning required because it's a non-contact system.
Disadvantages
High initial investment cost: Laser systems are more expensive than inkjet.
Slow printing on some surfaces: Marking time can be longer, especially on very sensitive materials.
Most Suitable Sectors
- Automotive: Permanent monitoring of metal parts and engine components.
- Pharmaceuticals and Medical: Products that require indelible coding.
- Electronics: Clear Data Matrix prints on micro components.
- Defense Industry: Parts traceability and anti-counterfeiting security.
Electrojet Laser Systems meet all the industry's needs with
fiber, CO₂, and UV laser technologies Each device guarantees full compliance with GS1 standards and high-speed serial marking
2. Inkjet Coding: The Power of Flexibility and Speed
Inkjet technology prints by expelling ink droplets onto a surface at high speed.
Its compatibility with various substrates and its integration into high-speed production lines make this method extremely versatile in the industry.
Advantages
Speed: Capable of printing on thousands of products per minute.
Flexibility: Suitable for all surfaces, including plastic, cardboard, metal, glass, and wood.
Low initial investment: Easy installation and integration.
Variable data printing: Can print specific date, lot, or QR codes on each product.
Disadvantages
Consumable requirements: Ink and solvent require regular replacement.
Readability: Careful adjustment is required in extremely dusty, humid, or hot environments.
Most Suitable Sectors
- Food & Beverage: Expiration date, batch and QR printing on fast lines.
- Cosmetics & Chemicals: Clear coding on packaging.
- Packaging & Paper: Product serialization and box coding.
The Rynan Inkjet Series offered by Electrojet Technology , delivers sharp results even at high speeds by printing at 600 dpi.
Furthermore, optimized ink consumption significantly reduces consumable costs.
3. Laser vs. Inkjet: Technical Comparison Chart
| Feature | Laser marking | Inkjet Coding |
| Print rate | Medium / High | Very High |
| Permanence | Permanent, indelible | Time-dependent variable |
| Consumables | None | Yes (ink, solvent) |
| Surface Compatibility | Metal, plastic, glass | Every surface |
| Need for Care | Low | Middle |
| Investment Cost | High | Low |
| Legibility | High contrast | Depends on the setting |
| Data Flexibility | Serial number, logo, code | Variable data, date, QR |
This table shows that there's no single right answer. Because every business's production structure, product surface, and budget plan are different , the most appropriate technology is the one specific to your business.
4. Choosing the Right Technology for the Sector
Food and Beverage
Inkjet coding for high-speed production lines . Inkjet devices provide clear printing even on constantly moving conveyors.
Medicine and Medical
Legal requirements require codes to be permanent. Therefore, laser marking is preferred.
Electronics and Automotive
High resolution is required on small surfaces. Laser systems provide excellent results for Data Matrix codes
Cosmetics and Chemistry
Packaging is diverse, with both laser and inkjet solutions being used together. Electrojet's engineers design hybrid solutions
5. Making the Right Decision with Electrojet Technology
Electrojet Technology has integrated laser and inkjet systems into dozens of production lines in Turkey and abroad. With this experience, a technology analysis report :
🔹 The Difference of Electrojet
- One-stop solution: Laser, inkjet, ink and spare parts supplied from a single center.
- Industry analysis: Device selection based on production line speed, surface type, and budget analysis.
- GS1 and Chestny ZNAK compatible solutions.
- On-site technical support: Rapid response throughout Turkey.
- Ease of integration: Compatible with ERP, MES or production tracking systems.
Electrojet Technology offers not just devices but also a complete integration solution efficiency, accuracy, and sustainable quality at every step of your production .
6. Which Technology Should You Choose?
When making your decision, you need to answer these three questions:
1️⃣ What surfaces are you printing on?
2️⃣ How permanent do you need your codes to be?
3️⃣ What are your daily production rates and budget targets? The answers to these questions determine the right technology. Electrojet Technology analyzes this process for you.
