Linx 8900 meets condensation printing challenge

A Linx 8900 Continuous Ink Jet (CIJ) printer is enabling erlenbacher backwaren, a leading German manufacturer of frozen cakes, to effectively and reliably mark its plastic film packaging even through condensation. Since the company started using the Linx model – supplied by Linx’s German agent Bluhm Systeme – it has been highly impressed with its printing capabilities and ease of operation.

Cakes from erlenbacher backwaren are subject to temperature differences during the production process, which can lead to condensation forming on the packaging film. The Linx 8900 is able to print through a layer of moisture to deliver a clear, readable and durable code, which remains in place on the substrate in temperatures of minus 35 degrees in deep-freeze storage.

As part of erlenbacher backwaren’s quality assurance programme, the cakes are printed with a batch ID number as well as the compulsory use-by date. Walter Thellmann, responsible for maintenance at the company, says the Linx 8900 is more than capable of keeping up with the company’s production line.

“Frozen products pass the printer at a speed of 35 metres per minute, so that more than 1,000 units can be marked per hour,” he explains

Another key benefit of the Linx 8900 is its ease of use. The 10-inch touchscreen makes adding and altering text extremely easy, and allows operators to quickly select files for printing. Various production parameters can also be entered and stored, enabling the printer to be configured for up to four different production scenarios at the touch of a button. Password protection prevents unintentional incorrect entries.

The Linx 8900’s design also avoids errors during the refilling of inks and solvents. The containers for these consumables are different sizes so that they can only be placed in the correct location. Automatic fluid recognition ensures that the right fluids are used in the printer, while a special septum seal prevents ink and solvent leakage.

The Linx 8900 offers maximum flexibility for placement on the production line, thanks to its compact dimensions including the ability to be wall-mounted, and its long 6m printhead conduit.

Maintenance is extremely easy, with the machine only requiring service every 18 months, and taking just 30 minutes for untrained personnel to complete via simple menus that guide the user through the process.