Printing from Below
For a packaging manufacturer, recycling codes needed to be printed onto carton blanks before the folding process. The challenge: the printhead had to be installed below the production line and print upwards onto moving material.
Most industrial printing systems are designed to print from above. But what happens when the application requires printing from underneath the production line?
The Challenge
The application required a marking solution that could print from below, be seamlessly integrated into an existing folding machine, and consistently deliver high print quality. In addition, the system needed to support production speeds of up to 80 m/min while offering sufficient flexibility for future applications and expanding production requirements. However, not every marking technology is capable of reliably meeting these demanding installation and performance requirements.
The Solution
Matthews implemented a solution consisting of an MPERIA® V-Series 32-valve printhead, an MPERIA® controller, and a fast-drying industrial ink. Installed directly beneath the folding line, the system applies the required recycling codes to the cartons before they enter the folding process. This configuration ensures reliable code placement at high production speeds while maintaining excellent print quality and seamless integration into the existing production environment.
Key Features of the Solution
The solution was specifically designed to perform reliably in demanding industrial environments. The printheads are engineered to withstand vibration and harsh operating conditions, ensuring consistent marking performance over extended production runs. To provide maximum flexibility, the 32-valve printhead is mounted on a movable axis, allowing precise marking across the entire length of each pipe. High-contrast, highly legible codes are achieved through the use of white pigmented ink, which produces clear marks on dark metal surfaces, even in outdoor applications. The MPERIA® controller offers scalable control capabilities, enabling efficient management of multiple printers across one or more production lines. In addition, integrated flushing systems simplify maintenance procedures, reduce downtime, and help extend the service life of the printheads.
The Results
The customer achieved a reliable and efficient coding process that fully met the requirements of the application. The solution enabled consistent bottom-up printing and delivered high-quality recycling code marking with excellent readability. By integrating seamlessly into the existing folding machine, the system was implemented without disrupting production processes. In addition, it supported production speeds of up to 80 m/min while maintaining print quality and reliability. The flexible system design also provides the customer with the ability to adapt to future applications and evolving production requirements.
About Froeb-Verpackungen GmbH
Froeb-Verpackungen GmbH, headquartered in Wurzbach, Germany, is a long-established developer and manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions for storage and transportation. Founded in 1912, the company specializes in custom packaging, ESD packaging, cardboard partitions, and cushioning and wrapping papers, serving customers across a wide range of industrial sectors. A strong focus is placed on environmentally friendly and resource-efficient packaging concepts based on recycled materials. Certified according to DIN ISO 9001 and DIN ISO 14001, Froeb-Verpackungen stands for quality, sustainability, and innovation. Tailor-made solutions, more than a century of experience, and a responsible approach to resource management are at the core of the company’s philosophy.
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