Labelling for secondary packaging traditionally involves self-adhesive, thermal transfer printed labels. The outer cases use large character inkjet printing to display the information. As an economic and innovative alternative, DataLase Technologies has introduced Casemark – a new label replacement solution that gives 30-50% of savings in cost for a medium volume line. In addition, the investment has a payback of less than 12 months.
Casemark is an integrated technology that applies an organic coating – Casemark material to a specific label area on the outer case. A CO2 marking laser beam writes the data on the mark area causing a colour change in the coating from white to black. The labelling completes without contact with the substrate eliminating the need for maintenance of thermal print headwear or accessories like inks, ribbons etc.
The technology provides 100% production uptime with a consistent verifiable barcode on-line and direct-to-carton, an important aspect in pharma logistics. The laser technology provides a better image resolution as compared to typical inkjets used for the purpose. Unlike print and apply processes where fluids and ink may spread on absorbent substrates, the Casemark technology uses a laser beam that removes such problems.
The technology provides a platform to customise the packing at any point in the retail chain. The labelling can be updated at any time to accommodate special offers, promotions, and brand and product changes. Although Casemark technology is a stand-alone system, there is a built-in flexibility to match specific line-configurations. Using Casemark technology, a company need not invest in expensive reprints, can reduce its stock-keeping units and the lead-time to incorporate design changes, providing an efficient labelling system.
