Domino Printing Sciences (Domino) has launched its next-generation CO2 laser coders, the Dx-Series, specifically designed to support beverage manufacturers in meeting future coding requirements in food and drink packaging without compromising production performance. These advanced Dx-Series lasers offer up to 30% faster coding than previous CO2 models, while maintaining the highest code quality, and are optimized for the demanding conditions typical in beverage applications.
According to Felix Rief, Head of Laser and Extraction at Domino, “The global laser market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10% between 2023–2029; this growth can be attributed, at least in part, to increasing demand for high-definition on-pack 2D codes, including QR codes powered by GS1. This is driven by the GS1 Sunrise initiative to see 2D codes accepted at the retail point of sale.” This escalating demand for reliable, high-resolution on-product printing solutions is crucial, ensuring that production speeds remain unaffected.
During the development of the Dx-Series, Domino conducted extensive customer testing. A notable North American bottling plant was among the first to trial this innovative product:
Jon Hall, Senior Product Marketing Manager – Laser, Domino North America, noted: “The customer lines are very fast paced, running at speeds of over 70,000 bottles per hour, and environmental conditions present an additional challenge, with high humidity and moisture creating on-product condensate. Needles to say, speed, code clarity, and product reliability were all in focus, and the Dx-Series did not disappoint. The trial has been very successful with over 30 million codes successfully delivered, and one very happy customer.”
In the sphere of beverage production, bottling lines often require coding and marking equipment capable of operating at speeds ranging from 70,000 to 90,000 bottles per hour, depending on the material and coding requirements.
Achieving reliable 2D code printing at these high speeds presents significant challenges. Traditionally, manufacturers have had to slow down production lines to ensure code quality. However, the newly introduced Dx-Series laser coders are engineered to help manufacturers meet these evolving demands without compromising production efficiency. The innovative coding algorithm facilitates up to 30% faster coding with minimal substrate stress and no loss in code clarity.
The Dx-Series laser coders are robust and designed to withstand the extreme temperatures, humidity, and condensation commonly found on bottling lines. They operate efficiently at temperatures up to 45°C and feature an IP55-certified controller, optionally available with an IP65-certified printhead variant to enhance protection against dust and moisture. Furthermore, CO2 laser coding eliminates the necessity for inks and consumables, ensuring reliable coding even in moisture-laden environments, including through product condensate. Alongside the laser coders, Domino provides an array of extraction solutions that remove dust and fumes, ensuring coding quality while maximizing equipment lifespan.
“We are committed to ensuring that our customers in the beverage industry are equipped to handle new on-product coding requirements, including high-resolution variable data 2D codes,” states Frauke Schroeder, Senior Product Manager – Laser, Domino. “The quality, speed, and harsh environment capabilities of our Dx-Series laser coders make them the obvious choice for beverage manufacturers looking to get ahead of the game and prepare for the GS1 Sunrise initiative.”
To further aid manufacturers in upgrading existing lines with advanced coding solutions, the Dx-Series laser coders feature flexible beam delivery and customization options, allowing installation in various orientations to accommodate coding on the neck, side, or bottom of bottles. They can code directly onto substrates or onto labels.
The comprehensive Dx-Series range includes the 20-watt Dx260i, 30-watt Dx360i, and 60-watt Dx660i, catering to a wide array of materials and coding requirements. The 20- and 30-watt solutions are ideal for printing on labels, pouches, and cork, while the more powerful 60-watt model is designed for high-speed coding on PET and glass, as well as large-format, complex coding tasks (such as replicating entire label content to facilitate the transition to labelless bottles).
All Dx-Series lasers come with Domino’s complete range of automation, service, and support options, including SafeGuard, machine vision from the R-Series, Domino Automation, and Domino’s cloud-based services. This ensures operational efficiency, reduces the risk of human error, and minimizes downtime.
“We are very pleased to be able to offer our Dx-Series laser coders to all global beverage brands,” expresses Tony McNulty, Chief Product Officer at Domino. “We recognize that the global transition to 2D codes will introduce specific challenges for the beverage industry, which demands robust, reliable, and high-speed solutions. We are excited to provide a future-ready solution with our new Dx-Series, optimized for extreme environments, high velocities, and superior code quality.”
For additional details about Domino’s new Dx-Series laser coders, please visit our website.
