Introduction
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) and Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) are two dominant technologies in the industrial coding and marking industry. While both are used to print batch codes, expiry dates, barcodes, and logos, they operate on fundamentally different principles — and so do their inks.
This article explores the chemical formulation differences between TIJ and CIJ inks, and how these differences influence performance, cost, maintenance, and application suitability.
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1. Basic Technology Comparison
| Aspect | CIJ | TIJ |
|---|---|---|
| Printing Mechanism | Ink is continuously ejected through a nozzle using high pressure and diverted electrostatically | Ink is ejected in drops by rapidly heating a resistor in a cartridge |
| Ink Container | Large ink bottles + make-up solvent | Compact ink cartridges (30–45ml) |
| Environment | High-speed production lines | Low-to-medium-speed applications |
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2. Ink Chemistry Differences
CIJ Ink Composition:
- Solvent base: MEK, acetone, or ethanol (fast-drying)
- Colorants: Dyes or pigments (for darker substrates)
- Additives: Conductivity agents, anti-clogging agents, binders
TIJ Ink Composition:
- Water or solvent base: Ethanol or glycol ethers (less volatile)
- Colorants: Pigments for permanence or dyes for cost-effectiveness
- Surface tension modifiers: For smooth ejection and droplet control
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3. Key Performance Differences
| Property | CIJ Ink | TIJ Ink |
|———-|———|———|
| Drying Speed | Very fast (1–2 sec on plastic/metal) | Moderate to fast (2–5 sec) |
| Adhesion | Excellent on non-porous surfaces | Depends on ink type |
| Smell/Volatility | Strong (due to MEK) | Low odor (water or ethanol) |
| Cartridge Design | Large system with filters and reservoirs | All-in-one cartridge |
| Cost per Mark | Lower on high-speed lines | Higher, but no maintenance |
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4. Application Suitability
CIJ Ink: Best for food packaging, cables, bottles, and metal parts. Resistant to harsh environments and ideal for 24/7 production.
TIJ Ink: Ideal for printing on boxes, cartons, paper, labels, and semi-porous surfaces in pharmaceutical, electronics, and warehouse applications.
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5. Storage, Handling, and Shelf Life
- CIJ Inks: Require sealed storage, regulated temperatures, and correct ventilation. Shelf life: 12–18 months
- TIJ Inks: Easier to store, more environmentally friendly. Shelf life: 6–12 months
Both ink types require rotation of inventory and date verification before use.
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6. Environmental and Regulatory Aspects
- TIJ inks often meet RoHS and REACH standards more easily
- CIJ inks with MEK are considered flammable (UN Class 3) and require special shipping documentation
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7. Cheef’s Recommendations
At ChinaCIJInk.com, we manufacture and supply compatible inks for both TIJ and CIJ platforms:
- CIJ: Videojet, Domino, Linx, Hitachi, Willett, Imaje
- TIJ: HP-based cartridges for Anser, Sojet, Markem, and more
We offer formulation guidance based on substrate type, speed, regulatory needs, and cost optimization. Contact us for technical support or custom ink development.
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Conclusion
TIJ and CIJ inks may look similar on the outside, but their chemistry is customized for very different environments. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right system and consumables for your production needs.
Explore our full range of TIJ and CIJ inks at www.chinacijink.com or email sales@cheef.cn for expert support and bulk pricing.
