Pharmaceutical Technologist - September/October 2008 - (Page 22)

Choosing a coding printer Simplicity Before it comes to making these choices, there are other, more fundamental principles to guide purchasers. The most noticeable trend is simplicity. Whether you view coding as a necessary evil or something that adds value to supply chain management, nobody wants the process to be complicated. Simplicity in installation, use and ownership takes the hassle out of coding operations, allowing manufacturers to concentrate on other aspects of their business. With shorter production runs and frequent changeovers, the ability to quickly move a printer between lines is a definite bonus. The philosophy of keeping things simple begins as soon as the machine is purchased. Installation should be straightforward, enabling the model to be up and running as quickly as possible. This has never been more important than in today’s environment. With shorter production runs and frequent changeovers, the ability to quickly move a printer between lines is a definite bonus. With CIJ technology, trouble-free start-ups depend on controlling the movement of ink and solvent within the printer. Ink and solvent usage must be easy and mess-free, with clear onscreen information to help avoid mistakes. It is also worth considering models that come with full printhead autoflush on every shutdown, which cleans the system in readiness for the next shift. With autoflush, you are likely to only need to conduct a full printhead clean once a month, whereas other models may need cleaning daily. Historically, CIJ has had the advantage in terms of ease of installation, as the equipment does not require specialist guarding and extraction equipment that is essential when using a laser coder. Nonetheless, current laser developments also have an eye on ease of installation as models are now built to fit the production line rather than demanding that existing set-ups be changed to make way for installation. A range of lenses and beam delivery options are also available to enable manoeuvring into tight or hard to reach spaces. Once installed, the next factor is to ensure simplicity of operation as new operators must be able to learn how to use the new equipment as soon as possible. In the European marketplace, this need for immediacy is exacerbated by freedom of movement between countries, which means that a factory may employ a large number of foreign workers who do not speak the native language. codes are taken out of the hands of operators all together. Such solutions work by storing product information in a database that is linked to the barcode on-pack. The operator reads the barcode using a handheld scanner, and then the software looks up the appropriate message and downloads it to the printer to code it. However, although a networked solution might be ideal for larger manufacturers, its complexity does not suit all. In our experience of talking to customers, automation is not a universal desire. Some companies wish to ensure there are prospects for both networked coders, as well as less sophisticated standalone installations. In such circumstances, the user interface must be straightforward and intuitive, allowing users to create, change and set up codes at the touch of a button; for example, using clear WYSIWYG displays and a navigable menu system. A printer for the future Cost of ownership is a critical factor. Coders and, in the case of CIJ, consumables must perform to consistently high standards. One batch of product that has not been coded properly because of printer failure can cost more than the printer itself. Similarly, a machine that regularly breaks down will cause unwanted downtime, further denting plant efficiency and profitability. It is worth investing in a machine that places a premium on looking after the machine, whether through regularly scheduled maintenance or through encouraging everyday routines, such as the autoflush on CIJ printers mentioned previously. Be wary if suppliers claim that their equipment does not need scheduled maintenance: all coders require regular checks to maintain reliable performance. Future-proofing is essential for long-term simplicity. More lines of print may be required to deal with new information demanded by law or different alphabets may be needed for exports to new countries. One fast emerging trend is incorporating machine readable coding onto To automate or not to automate To overcome these factors, one solution favoured by some is automation. The use of an integrated network, in which coders are linked via a PC-based system, ensures that Choosing the right machine ● ● ● ● ● Code content, the substrate being coded onto, line speed, factory environment and available budget will determine the choice of machine. Simplicity in installation, use and ownership is paramount to minimize the difficulties in coding operations. Decide whether a laser or continuous inkjet printer is desired. A machine should be chosen that features integrated self-cleaning such as autoflush. The system should be able to deal with future alterations, such as a need for more lines of print or new alphabets. 22 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2008 PHARMACEUTICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Pharmaceutical Technologist - September/October 2008

Pharmaceutical Technologist - September/October 2008 Contents Industry Highlights Morpheus Market Watch Smoke and Mirrors Reducing Data Burdens Keeping it Simple Bringing Pharma Up to Date

Pharmaceutical Technologist - September/October 2008

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