Methods Behind Marking A Product

In the most efficient manufacturing plants, there is much thought put into the processes behind the manufacturing. Anyone selling products to the Department of Defense is very familiar with the stringent requirements of Mil Spec 130. Youre also very aware that every product sold to the DoD, must have a permanent UID mark present, but are you applying this identification mark in the most efficient means possible?

Marking technologies have advanced far from the manual, steel stamps of our past and now boast full automation capability with inkjet, stylus, and laser markers. There are more than a hundred ways to mark a product, but only some will ensure mark permanence and durability over the long periods of time our government requires. Knowing when, where, and how to place your UID mark takes a bit of finesse and consideration.

Dot Peen Pinstamp or programmable stylus marking is a great step up from the manual setups many companies still possess. This technology is a perfect match for applications that require marking on hard plastics or metals. These systems operate by computer control executing an industrial strength stylus to indent UID information directly onto the manufactured part, or onto a metal tag that will be securely fastened to the finished product. Dot Peen or stylus stampers, are best fit into a manufacturing process where high production speeds may not be an issue.

Industrial inkjet printers have succeeded in many harsh climates throughout the building products, automotive, plastic pipe, and steel industries. Permanent inks have been developed over the years to handle long term exposure to weathering and contact chemicals; opening this marking technology up to meet Mil Spec 130 UID marking guidelines. Many inkjet printers can handle very high speed production processes and inkjet is perfect for printing on textured and delicate surfaces. Specialty inks also make this technology a worthy contender to alternate marking methods.

One of the newest technologies to emerge is laser. Its true that laser driven equipment has been in production plants for a while. However, the use of a laser for marking is a much newer concept. Like inkjet printing, laser marking systems have the capability to merge into high speed production lines. Additionally these systems promote a greener process with fewer consumables. Since the laser beam is literally etching the UID into your products surface, there is no need to apply expensive ink.

Overall, you need to evaluate your process, product, and customer requirements to know the best method of UID marking. The choices may seem confusing sometimes but it helps to work with an expert in all aspects of an identification application. Turn to Jet City Laser for full service assistance with UID marking that meets Mil Spec 130 requirements.