As more brands transition to 2D barcodes in preparation for applications such as:
- GS1’s Sunrise 2027 2D barcode migration for retail products
- EU wine and spirits labeling
- Digital Product Passports
- Food Safety Modernization Act traceability
- Late-stage customization
- and other initiatives
Since the new barcodes can include production data, brands will move away from pre-printed UPC/EAN codes to new barcodes printed when the product is packaged. Product coding OEMs are creating innovative solutions for incorporating these barcodes into packaging.
Image Source: Markem-Imaje
One of the most intriguing new products is the Super Piezo Inkjet (SPI) printer from Markem-Imaje.
SPI is a fresh concept designed to print barcodes, text, and graphics at high speeds across various packaging materials. The barcodes that can be printed include the new GS1 Digital Link format, which can be scanned at checkout and handles customer engagement and data such as serialization.
Since its debut at Interpack in 2023, the SPI has received little attention in the United States, but the printer is already operational in customer plants across Europe. Since its initial prototype at Interpack, the design has evolved significantly into the production version.
This production version has been showcased at several European trade shows, including the PPMA
Show in the UK in 2024.
I recently spoke with Rémy Fontanet from Markem-Imaje, who shared some insights into the SPI
and the company’s progress in advancing this technology.
SPI Printhead at Pack Expo 2024
What is the SPI Printer?
The Super Piezo Inkjet (SPI) is a hybrid printer that combines features of both continuous inkjet.
(CIJ) and drop-on-demand printers.
It uses ink formulations similar to those in CIJ printers and, like CIJ systems, relies on additive fluids
to control ink viscosity.
Structurally, the SPI consists of a cabinet housing the fluids and electronics connected to the
printhead via an umbilical.
The printhead can produce prints up to 16 mm wide at 100 dpi, with print speeds reaching 100,000 products per hour, according to Markem-Imaje.
Image source: Markem-Imaje
Two standout features of the SPI are its ability to print effectively on curved surfaces and its
extended throw distance—the distance between the printhead and the product— of up to 30mm,
much more than thermal inkjet and conventional piezo printers.
Additionally, the SPI is fully compatible with Markem-Imaje’s CoLOS print and data management
software.
I’m looking forward to seeing this technology in action and will share more updates as
Markem-Imaje releases additional information.
