What makes drop-on-demand printing or DOD printing a popular choice compared to other industrial printers? Its ‘on-demand’ technology promotes reduced ink waste and makes this type of inkjet printer unique. It also has a variety of features to remedy printing difficulties on stubborn surfaces.

DOD inkjet printing can solve your manufacturing and secondary packaging woes through its versatility. Find out more about drop-on-demand printing and its characteristics that will complement your business. 

What makes DOD printing special?

Drop on demand (DOD) printing is a type of thermal inkjet printing where ink is fired through the printhead only when needed. This selective droplet ejection technology is not only cost-effective, but also helps achieve clear images and text on various surfaces.

In contrast, continuous inkjet (CIJ) printing employs non-stop dispensing of ink, and unused ink is recirculated back into the chamber. The continuous ejection of ink is useful for high-speed production lines.

Different substrates and packaging processes call for tailored solutions. Learn more about the advantages and applications of DOD printing below. 

The Benefits and Applications of Drop-on-Demand Printing

Advantages of DOD inkjet printing

1. Diverse and versatile technologies

Drop on demand printing is relatively newer in comparison to continuous inkjet printing. Introduced in the 1980s, drop on demand technology gave way to more advanced innovation.

The ‘drop on demand’ term does not refer to only one type of printer, but rather, it comprises multiple printing technologies such as:

• Thermal inkjet printers – use heat to pressurize ink
• Piezoelectric inkjet printers – built with piezoelectric printheads, pressurize ink using electricity 
• Valve jet printers – use air to pressurize ink

2. Higher-resolution barcodes, graphics, and text

DOD inkjet printers are capable of producing smaller droplets, making them ideal for clear and crisp marking. It is compatible with dye-based or pigmented ink, both of which are effective in creating high-resolution graphics up to 1000ppi and beyond for human and machine reading.

3. Low maintenance build

Expect reduced costs and need for maintenance intervention with drop-on-demand technology. Updated models are equipped with flushing valve technology to make cleaning easier. DOD printers are typically built to be modular to allow self-maintenance, leading to less downtime and more productivity.

4. User-friendly application

Newer drop-on-demand inkjet printer manufacturers began integrating easy-to-use touch screen monitors for centralized coding and control. This greatly increases flexibility and turnaround time.

5. Speedy and safe production

DOD printers are capable of firing ink simultaneously from multiple jets, creating exceptionally high-quality, larger prints and characters quicker than CIJs.

These can also print at distances beyond 10mm from the product, reducing contact-induced damage to products or packaging.

Applications of Drop-on-Demand Printing

Drop-on-demand inkjet printing is used to produce characters and graphics such as high-resolution alphanumeric text, barcodes, QR codes, images, logos, manufacturing information, and product coding.

This type of printing achieves exceptional results on secondary packaging, porous, semi-porous, and non-porous substrates. Powerful printheads are capable of printing on smooth and uneven surfaces as well.

The following materials can be marked using a DOD inkjet printer:

• Steel
• Metal 
• Rubber
• Textile
• Lumber
• Glass
• Plastics
• Corrugated boxes

Now that you know the basics of drop-on-demand inkjet printing, consider it as an efficient choice for your business. Enjoy cost-saving, flexible, and quick solutions by incorporating DOD printing.

ALSO READ: Your Complete Guide to Industrial Inkjet Coder

Choose a reliable DOD printer supplier

When choosing a DOD printer, it is important to note your business’ production load and speed requirements, as well as perform a cost-benefit analysis. Connect with a dependable supplier like Elixir Industrial Equipment, which offers different types of drop on demand printers that produce superior prints and packaging for your business. Talk to us today to get a quote.