DTM Print has unveiled its new AP-CODE Date Coder and DTM EcoTec Label Line of eco-friendly labels
DTM Print’s new AP-CODE Lot and Date Coder accessory for the label application process adds the feature of printing dates, lot codes and text directly onto glass, metals, plastics and laminated labels.
Manufactured by Primera Technology Inc., the compact date coder can be easily installed into the AP360e and AP362e Label Applicators to create one integrated machine that prints lot codes, dates and more directly onto round containers while labels are applied. It doesn’t need a separate power supply and includes a full-colour touchscreen to enter data and configure date and lot codes. The print fields are free-format and can include letters, numbers and symbols. Formats can be stored for later use to speed up production.
AP-CODE can add information without the need to simultaneously apply a label and can also print on pre-applied labels. It uses a single black solvent-based ink cartridge that is long lasting, immediately dry, waterproof, scratch- and UV light resistant. Decap time, during which the cartridge can remain uncovered, is more than 24 hours, eliminating clogs and needing to cap print heads overnight.
“AP-CODE, in combination with the AP360e and AP362e Label Applicators, eliminates the need of applying extra labels or using hand-stamping devices to add lot codes, dates or texts to your container,” explained Lea König, Product Manager for Labelling Solutions at DTM Print. “That’s a huge benefit for our customers as it significantly increases their production efficiency.”
DTM Print has also bundled its selection of eco-friendly, recycled or natural labels under the new label line DTM EcoTec, which was officially launched at Natural & Organic Products Europe 2023. As of now, the following four inkjet materials are part of the EcoTec line; further substrates will follow:
- DTM EcoTec Hemp Paper: This label consists of 100% hemp fibre. Hemp can be harvested up to three times a year, plantation trees only every seven years. Thanks to its fibres, which are five times longer than wood pulp, the material is particularly tear-resistant and can be recycled very often.
- DTM EcoTec Grass Paper: The natural grass fibres of the label not only give the paper material its unique, natural look, but also reduce the amount of process water needed in the production process. The adhesive is an acrylic dispersion, permanent, solvent free and can be in direct food contact according to EU regulation No 10/2011.
- DTM EcoTec Paper Matte Nature: This paper label is made from 100% recycled backing from used label rolls.
- DTM EcoTec Poly Clear Gloss R90: It is a glossy clear poly label, which consists of 90% post-consumer recycled (also known as PCR) PET material. It features the same clarity, mechanical properties and printing characteristics as its non-PCR counterpart “DTM Poly Clear Gloss”. Using PCR material also establishes more recycling volume for the plastic production process and industry.
In addition, the water-soluble adhesive of the aforementioned labels is below 0.01 percent. That means, it also passes the recycling process.
“To produce exceptional product labels for all kinds of applications you not only need advanced and resource-friendly print technology as integrated in our colour label printers but also high-quality material,” added Albion Bekolli, label specialist at DTM Print. “Every product leaves a footprint on our planet and using label material that is environmentally-friendly and sustainable helps to keep it as small as possible.”
Product information about AP-CODE and DTM EcoTec Label Line is available at dtm-print.eu
