Twin coding solution for specialist brewery

A Linx 8900 Continuous Ink Jet (CIJ) printer is printing three lines of code onto the base of aluminium cans. These are subsequently packed into boxes, onto which two Linx TJ725 Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) printers apply product information text and a barcode. The Linx 8900 is currently running at 12,000 cans per hour, with the Linx TJ725 coding 20 boxes per minute.

The Linx TJ725 has enabled the coding of boxes to be carried out in-line for greater efficiency, delivering cost and time savings compared to the previous method of hand applying labels to boxes on pallets off-line.

The Linx 8900, meanwhile, delivers high quality codes, printing vertically against gravity. The conveyor sits higher than the printer and a 2m conduit has been supplied to enable the printhead to be positioned directly underneath.

Linx Black fast-drying ink 1240 is used for the Linx 8900 and deals effectively with typical filling conditions such as dampness, humidity and water vapour while ensuring excellent adhesion and high clarity codes.

A particular benefit of both printers for Fourpure is their ability to deliver excellent quality codes from the moment they start up, even if they are run intermittently.  The Linx 8900 features Linx’s proven autoflush system which thoroughly cleans the printhead every time it is shut down for a fast and clean startup when next required. The Linx TJ725’s Active Cartridge Care System slows the nozzle drying process to give good consistent prints every time.

Both printers incorporate intuitive touch screens for easy set-up and product changeovers. The cartridge system on the Linx 8900 makes changing fluids a fast and simple process, while the Linx TJ725 features a replaceable ink cartridge with integral printhead that can be removed and replaced in a matter of seconds.  

“We particularly like the ease of use of the Linx 8900,” confirms Steve Morris, Fourpure’s head of packaging. “Changing fluids is really simple with the printer’s cartridge system, and setup and selection of codes are equally user-friendly.”

Fourpure Brewing Co is a family-run business founded in 2013.  The company’s approach to exceptional brewing is focused on attention to detail, delivering innovation while staying true to the principles of brewing and respecting the four core beer ingredients – grain, yeast, hops and water – that were the inspiration behind its name.

“We are passionate about brewing,” concludes Steve Morris. “Our packaging has to reflect our premium image and that means everything about it down to the smallest detail of the codes is about quality”