Choosing the right adhesive or materials for pharmaceutical label printing depends on the specifics of the drug and the bottle. Drug vials are often very small and have very little surface area. When printed with a poorly chosen adhesive, the label may come loose, fall off, or even tear off. An experienced label printer weighs the pros and cons of different adhesives and materials, and backs up their recommendations with sound testing data. Here are some considerations to make when choosing a pharmaceutical label printer:
Xeikon’s DISCOVERY PharmaPQ System
The Xeikon DISCOVERY PharmapQ system for pharmaceutical label printing is capable of ensuring the highest print quality, eliminating the risk of defects on printed labels. The system provides real-time defect detection, including random and recurring defects, die-cut variations, smudges, hazing, creases, and more. Its powerful but easy-to-use OCR also validates expiration dates and serial/lot numbers.
The Xeikon DISCOVERY Pharma PQ system for pharmaceutical label printing offers a host of benefits, including enhanced security and counterfeit deterrence. Its dry toner technology is capable of printing on all standard materials without primer or pretreatment. Pharmaceutical labels require high-resolution printouts, and a label converter must invest in high-resolution printing technology. Using digital presses with dry toner is recommended for pharmaceutical labels, since digital presses with dry toner are capable of 1200 dpi. However, UV inkjet and liquid toner have lower resolution.
Xeikon DISCOVERY Pharma PQ uses advanced compact imaging technology to read variable text, barcodes, and images from reflective surfaces. It is an ideal solution for pharmaceutical label applications where the critical data must be readable for downstream serialization and track and trace systems. Xeikon DISCOVERY PharmaPQ also enables users to integrate their software with serialisation management systems to simplify serialisation and traceability.
Laser Marking Systems
The process of marking pharmaceutical labels is essential for product tracking and identification. In the past, companies used inks or infrared lasers to achieve this effect. In recent years, the use of UV diode-pumped solid-state lasers has overcome the drawbacks of previous technologies. The cost of ownership is also significantly lower. This technology is also more efficient than ink-based solutions. It provides an accurate and legible mark on pharmaceutical labels.
Matthews offers several laser coding systems to meet the varying needs of the pharmaceutical industry. The e-SolarMark CO2 laser marking system provides high-speed, reliable, and permanent marking. The machine is flexible enough to accommodate random product positioning and can integrate with existing CO2 laser systems. In addition, the e-SolarMark+ line of laser coding equipment is compatible with other common peripheral devices such as PLCs and packaging systems.
Benefit of a Laser Marker
Another benefit of a laser marker is the reduction in the number of labels needed to label a product. Traditionally, label printing has involved multiple types of labels on the same packaging. A laser marker eliminates the need for multiple models and drastically reduces the inventory management costs. Additionally, laser marking systems eliminate problems associated with peeling or incorrect affixing of labels. They also offer consolidated label models, which cut down on the cost of inventory.
Paper-based processes use inks that are expensive and require routine maintenance, which can cost hundreds of dollars. Despite this, the cost of maintaining a laser system is lower than that of paper-based methods. Paper-based methods produce an excessive amount of waste, while lasers are environmentally friendly. These systems also do not require inks and can last a hundred thousand hours. They also require less maintenance and require minimal cleaning.
A laser marking system can also produce highly accurate results. Datalase is a specially designed material that produces a white-to-black colour change when activated by a low-power CO2 laser. The material is often available in white or black background and is applied to the packaging using a coating on the case. This material can be used to create barcodes or other graphics on pharmaceutical packaging. If the application is not labeled with barcodes, the contrast may be lowered to a point where the laser cannot read it.
Thermal Transfer Overprinting
One of the biggest improvements in the pharmaceutical industry is thermal transfer overprinting. Many manufacturers use this process to eliminate operator error and save time. Instead of manually transferring the data to the printhead, thermal transfer overprinters download the information from a database. This process also enables high-resolution prints and exceptional speed. Depending on your needs, you may opt for a 1 or 2-part label.
Thermal transfer overprinting, also known as TTO, uses a near-edge printhead to produce high-quality markings and codes. This method can print a wide range of materials, including labels, packaging materials, and more. In addition, thermal transfer printing can handle a variety of temperatures, moisture, and chemicals. Unlike hot stampers, thermal transfer overprinting uses wax-resin thermal transfer ribbons.
The technology behind thermal transfer overprinters enables it to print on a variety of flexible materials, including polyethylene, aluminium, and films. Thermal transfer printing allows for intermittent printing of text and date codes. This type of technology can also print on flexible materials with a high degree of flexibility. The technology is also ideal for printing variable information on in-line. With a small thermal printhead, you can print ingredients lists, nutritional panels, and fully-compliant barcodes.
Most Common Method
In pharmaceutical label printing, the most common method used is thermal transfer overprinting. Its speed and resolution are comparable to other methods. TTO offers high speed printing and is more cost-effective than lasers. In addition, it is highly reliable and produces quality images. This method is ideal for pharmaceutical packaging because it is flexible and offers a fast turnaround. If you’re looking for high-quality printing, TTO is a great option.
Managed Print Services
Pharmaceutical organizations that want to streamline their pharmaceutical printing operations can use managed print services. These companies can help pharmaceutical businesses identify the right printing equipment to use and replace outdated equipment. Outdated equipment requires frequent service and can be expensive to operate. Managed pharmaceutical label printing services can help streamline pharmaceutical businesses and ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations. These services help pharmaceutical companies to reduce their operating costs and increase productivity. To learn more about how managed pharmaceutical label printing services can help your business, please read on.
Pharmaceutical printing involves barcodes and fine print. Printing errors create higher overhead costs. Moreover, reprinting is time-consuming and creates more paperwork. Managed pharmaceutical label printing services reduce the need for reprinting because they streamline the workflow. Furthermore, managed print services can manage a wide range of devices. For example, retail pharmacies typically have several printers for marketing and pamphlet printing. Managed print services help optimize the performance of all of these devices. They can also increase the efficiency and reliability of existing equipment.
Smaller Quantities
Pharmacies often need smaller quantities of pharmaceutical labels than they did in the past. This is due to the ever-changing regulations and compliance requirements for pharmaceuticals. Labels that meet FDA guidelines may only remain compliant for six to nine months. Managed pharmaceutical label printing services can help pharmaceutical companies streamline their process and reduce the risk of errors. The company also has extensive experience working with pharmaceutical companies, so they understand the nuances of the pharma industry and can deliver highly secure small-run digital labels that comply with regulatory guidelines.
Pharmaceuticals require high-quality labeling. If labels are misprinted, the patient may get a dangerous drug or even lose their license. Managed print services can help pharmaceutical companies remain compliant and competitive. These services are important to pharmaceutical companies because of the high-volume printing requirements. When choosing a managed pharmaceutical label printing company, it’s essential to consider the type of printing services that you need. This will determine the best option for your needs.