What is the best method to Print on Plastic Pipe? Laser vs Inkjet vs Embossing
The printing on the plastic pipe is commonly known as pipe marking or coding. It is very important as it helps to identify pipes. Today we will discuss the importance of plastic pipe printing and which are the best option to choose from.
Why is Plastic Pipe Printing Important?
- For Identification and Designation
The marking on the pipe is required throughout the life of the pipe as it helps to identify and mark about pipe’s capacity and branding. These markings are diameter, temperature and pressure rating, wall thickness, barcode, identification code, country of origin, standards compliance, and company logo.
- For Safety and Maintenance
We all know that plastic pipes are used in a wide variety of industries from drip irrigation and leach mining to tap water piping and sewage drain systems. Depending on the application some installations last up to 50 to 100 years.
If the plastic pipe is made properly, it will not install properly and cause delays in repairs. It also causes health-related issues and sometimes harmful to the environment. The marking provides traceability if the plastic pipe integrity compromises. If the marking is not there, it can be easily misuse or at unsuitable places. The proper marking makes maintenance easy.
- Ensure Quality
The proper marking helps to differentiate the product from others. This is easy for sellers to identify the right product for the right customer. Also, customers get assurance of quality, right for application and brand.
What are the available Pipe Printing Technologies?
There is various printing solution available for extrusion pipe. We will see the top three methods: Laser Printing, Inkjet Printing, and Embossing
Let’s start with
Laser Printing Machine
It uses laser beams that mark the pipe at the contact surface. This method etches the material surface without physical contact, inks, solvents, or others. It can work both on white and black pipe materials. There are many types of pipe laser printers but PE pipe laser printers and PVC pipe laser printers are most common.
Industrial Inkjet Printers
This is the ink-based marking method which can work virtually on any extruded pipe surface and it operates at high temperature and environments. It uses pigmented fluids that are bright and easy to read the coding on dark or light-colored pipe extrusion. The inkjet can print larger marks and more lines of text than any other coding method. Due to its versatility, it is widely use as a printing method for pipe extrusion printing.
Embossing
This is one of the oldest pipe coding methods in the world. It uses pre-arranged metal digits and with heat and pressure, it stamps on the pipe. This makes permanent marks on the pipe and not required any ink. But it requires full contact with the pipe. This marking makes weak spots on the pipe.
Which is suitable for your Production Line?
These printing methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to choose the right pipe printing method according to your application. Which includes types of pipe production, extrusion speed, maintenance, budget, and consumer requirements.
Now if you operate in a developing country or remote location, the consumed items, and technical support come at an increased cost. Laser printing or embossing is suitable for it as these methods don’t require high maintenance. On the contrary, if you want to sell your products in the advance market and unlike your competitors, the inkjet is the best option for you as it provides colorful or detail markings on the pipe.
