Board and coating
Coating chemistry and colour determine how the surface reacts and how much contrast is achieved.
CO₂ laser marking for packaging
Permanent coding for cartons and paperboard.
Apply clean dates, batches, barcodes, Data Matrix codes and graphics without adding ink to the production process.
Application-led specification
Clear codes that become part of the pack.
CO₂ laser energy can remove or change the surface of compatible paperboard, ink, coating or label stock to create a permanent mark. This makes the technology attractive for high-throughput packaging lines where code quality and low routine consumables matter.
The result depends on the face stock, coating, print colour and required contrast. We assess the actual packaging and code at representative conditions before recommending a configuration.
Common requirements
- Best-before, use-by, lot and batch coding
- Static and variable text or graphics
- QR, Data Matrix and 1D barcode marking
- Moving-line compensation at production speed
- Integration above, beside or beneath an existing conveyor
DatesBatch codesLot numbersQR codesData MatrixBarcodesLogos
SAMPLE TESTINGProve contrast, permanence and readability first.
What we assess
Factors that shape the final system.
The substrate is only the start. A reliable production result comes from matching the laser, optics, material response and line conditions.
Code and field size
Character height, barcode module size and the marking window affect lens and speed selection.
Line speed
Product speed and spacing determine the available marking time and power requirement.
Pack presentation
Stable positioning and consistent focal distance are essential for repeatable code quality.
Extraction
Paper and coating fumes must be captured effectively at the marking point.
Verification
Readability and grade requirements should be agreed before the trial and specification.
Sample marking trial
Test the actual product, not a data sheet.
Material colour, coatings, additives, surface condition and line speed can materially change the result. Send representative samples and the code you need. We will use that evidence to guide specification.
Useful trial information: production speed, code dimensions, marking window, product orientation, environment and the quality or verification standard you need to meet.
Typical project scope
- Laser system
- Appropriate CO₂ source, wavelength, lens and scan head.
- Line interface
- Photocell, encoder, I/O and message-management requirements.
- Mechanical
- Mounting, adjustment, guarding and product presentation.
- Environmental
- Fume extraction, ingress considerations and maintainability.
- Handover
- Commissioning, operator training and documentation.
Useful specification guides