Linx provides twin coding solution for specialist brewery

Packaging Solutions

Linx printers are providing the ideal solution for the coding of both primary and secondary packaging at London based brewery Fourpure Brewing Co.

A Linx 8900 continuous inkjet printer is printing three lines of code onto the base of aluminium cans. These are subsequently packed into boxes, onto which two Linx TJ725 thermal inkjet printers apply product information text and a barcode. The 8900 is currently running at 12,000 cans per hour, with the TJ725 coding 20 boxes per minute.

The arrival of the TJ725 has enabled the coding of boxes to be carried out in line for greater efficiency, delivering important cost and time savings compared to the previous method of hand applying labels to boxes on pallets off line.

The 8900 meanwhile delivers high quality codes, printing vertically against gravity. The conveyor sits higher than the printer and a 2 metre conduit has been supplied to enable the printhead to be positioned directly underneath.

Linx Black fast drying ink 1240 has been selected for the 8900 as it is able to deal effectively with typical filling conditions such as dampness, humidity and water vapour while ensuring excellent adhesion and high clarity codes.

A particular benefit of both printers for Fourpure is their ability to deliver excellent quality codes from the moment they start up, even if they are run intermittently. The 8900 features Linx’s proven autoflush system which thoroughly cleans the printhead every time it is shut down for a fast and clean start up when next required. The TJ725’s innovative Active Cartridge Care System slows the nozzle drying process to give good consistent prints every time.

Both printers incorporate intuitive touch screens for easy set up and product changeovers. The cartridge system on the 8900 makes changing fluids a fast and simple process, while the TJ725 features a replaceable ink cartridge with integral printhead that can be removed and replaced in a matter of seconds.

‘We particularly like the ease of use of the Linx 8900,’ confirmed Steve Morris, Fourpure’s head of packaging. ‘Changing fluids is really simple with the printer’s cartridge system, and setup and selection of codes are equally user friendly.’

‘We are passionate about brewing,’ added Steve. ‘Our packaging has to reflect our premium image and that means everything about it down to the smallest detail of the codes is about.’