What Can Be Printed with a CIJ? Continuous Inkjet Technology

CIJ printers dominate the industrial coding and marking space for good reason. They’re fast, flexible, and capable of printing on a vast range of surfaces — not just basic text but complex data, graphics, and functional marks.

Let’s explore exactly what can be printed using CIJ technology and how it supports manufacturers across food and beverage, cosmetics, construction, and beyond.

Alphanumerics

Printing alphanumeric data — like best-before dates or batch codes — is one of the most common CIJ applications. Our CIJ systems can print 1 to 5 lines of text at production speeds of up to 360 metres per minute. Whether the product or the printhead is moving, CIJ technology ensures consistent print quality from a distance of 0.5" to 2".

QR Codes

QR codes (Quick Response codes) are compact, data-rich 2D barcodes that link to websites, apps, or product information. Originally developed for automotive tracking, QR codes are now used everywhere — from contactless menus to interactive packaging. CIJ printers can apply scannable QR codes directly to packaging materials in real time, enhancing the customer experience and streamlining traceability.

Serialisations

Unlike static date codes, serialisation involves printing unique identifiers on each product or batch — a must for industries like pharmaceuticals, electronics, and high-end consumer goods. Serialised marks improve supply chain transparency, help with anti-counterfeiting, and support individual product recall if required.

Barcodes

Barcodes are the backbone of logistics, retail, and inventory control. CIJ printers apply high-contrast, scannable barcodes to primary and secondary packaging, even at high speed and on curved or uneven surfaces. The result? Reliable tracking, fewer errors, and improved supply chain visibility.

Logos and Certification Marks

From legal symbols to brand logos, CIJ printers can reproduce simple graphics at up to 32 pixels in height. This allows producers to apply official certification logos (like the British Lion mark on eggs) directly onto products in compliance with food safety or industry regulations.

Block Marking for Extrusion

In extrusion processes, block marking is used to apply consistent, evenly spaced marks such as dots, lines, or codes at specific intervals. For example, a manufacturer may mark cable or piping every metre — a process CIJ technology supports effortlessly without interrupting production flow.

Why CIJ Remains the Industry Standard

Continuous Inkjet printers are built for high-speed, high-volume production. With the ability to mark serial numbers, batch/lot codes, expiry dates, and more — all without slowing down — CIJ remains unrivalled in terms of reliability and scalability.

At Cyklop Needham, we support a wide range of industries with coding and marking solutions tailored for durability, clarity, and compliance.

Affordable, Proven Technology — Used Across Industries

Our CIJ printers offer exceptional performance and long-term value. They’re already in use across:

• Food & beverage production

• Cosmetic and personal care manufacturing

• Building materials and extrusion industries

Whether you're upgrading your production line or exploring coding automation for the first time, we’re here to help.

Try Before You Commit — 7-Day Free CIJ Printer Trial

We offer a free, no-obligation 7-day trial of our CIJ printer, giving you the opportunity to test print quality, integration ease, and performance in your own environment.

Call us: +44 (0)1948 662629
Email: enquiries@needham-ink.com
Learn more: www.needham-ink.com