1. Keep machines clean and maintain them regularly. Keep the cooling fans of laser coding machines clear of debris, especially when coding inside a cartoning machine. This is critical to optimum performance. Use trained senior operators to complete a TPM list, which will pinpoint actions for the maintenance team to close out. This reduces the time spent by the engineering team on checking the machine for issues.
2. Eliminate all upstream variation. To ensure print registration is consistent, the print position and materials must be the same every time. If possible, use a VRK (Variation Reduction Kaizen) technique to identify and reduce variations.
3. Check and record non-coding parameters. For effective coding and marking, it’s key that all components are operating in concert to create a smooth operation. Check that package motion drivers are operating within parameters to prevent skew, flutter, and random slip. Also check parameters such as backpressure, conveyor rail position, and any other components specified by the manual. Verify system parameters such as lighting and focal sharpness of lenses.
4. Use the recommended ink! This is the simplest and most cost-effective way to get the best performance from your coding and marking machines. Purchasing managers are always bombarded with opportunities to save money, and low-cost ink supplies are always attractive. But keeping coding machines running 100% of the time is essential to efficiency, so spend the money to use high-quality inks. Often, the most expensive ink to buy is the least expensive ink to use.
