Introduction
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) and Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) technologies serve distinct purposes in the industrial coding and marking industry. Each system uses a different type of ink optimized for its hardware and printing requirements. Understanding the differences between TIJ and CIJ inks is essential when selecting consumables for specific substrates, environments, and output speeds.
—
1. Overview of CIJ and TIJ Technologies
CIJ (Continuous Inkjet)
- Non-contact printing with pressurized ink streams
- Best for high-speed, high-volume production lines
- Inks recirculate through the system continuously
TIJ (Thermal Inkjet)
- Contactless printing via heat-expelled droplets
- Compact, cartridge-based systems
- Ideal for small-scale, intermittent, or multi-line printing
—
2. Ink Cartridge vs. Ink Reservoir System
The biggest hardware difference between TIJ and CIJ lies in how ink is stored and delivered.
TIJ Ink Cartridge
- Disposable cartridge with integrated printhead (typically HP45 type)
- Small capacity (40–45ml), easy to replace
- No internal filtration or ink recovery system
CIJ Ink Reservoir
- Bulk ink tanks (typically 750–1000ml)
- Connected to a complex fluid circuit with filters, pumps, and valves
- Includes makeup fluids (solvents) and cleaning fluids for maintenance
—
3. Ink Chemistry Differences
Solvent Base
- CIJ inks: Ethanol, MEK (methyl ethyl ketone), or acetone-based
- TIJ inks: Water, ethanol, or glycol ether-based (less volatile)
Viscosity
- CIJ ink: Very low viscosity (1–5 cps)
- TIJ ink: Higher viscosity (6–10 cps) to suit cartridge nozzles
Drying Time
- CIJ: Fast-drying due to volatile solvents – suitable for high-speed lines
- TIJ: Slower drying unless ethanol-based – may require drying support
—
4. Print Durability and Adhesion
CIJ inks generally offer better adhesion and durability on non-porous materials like plastics, metals, and glass. TIJ inks work well on porous materials like paper, cartons, and wood but may struggle with adhesion on smooth surfaces unless specially formulated.
- CIJ: Excellent solvent resistance, UV stability, and long-lasting marks
- TIJ: High-resolution, sharp prints, but more limited resistance to abrasion and moisture
—
5. Applications and Substrate Compatibility
TIJ Applications
- Paperboard cartons
- Pharmaceutical boxes
- Labels and mailing documents
CIJ Applications
- PET bottles, aluminum cans
- Flexible packaging films
- Wires, cables, plastic containers
—
6. Cost Differences
- TIJ Ink: $0.05–$0.15 per ml
- CIJ Ink: $0.01–$0.05 per ml (when factoring in makeup fluid)
Though TIJ cartridges seem cheaper and easier to handle, CIJ systems are more cost-effective for large-scale operations due to bulk ink pricing and lower per-print cost.
—
7. Environmental Considerations
- CIJ: Uses flammable, VOC-heavy solvents (requires exhaust and ventilation)
- TIJ: Often water-based, safer for indoor and food-contact environments
For sustainable printing, many companies are shifting to ethanol-based or water-based TIJ formulations.
—
8. Maintenance and Storage
- CIJ: Requires regular nozzle cleaning, filter replacement, ink circuit calibration
- TIJ: Low maintenance – replace cartridge when empty, minimal downtime
—
Conclusion
Choosing between CIJ and TIJ inks depends on your printing application, substrate type, production speed, and operational preferences. CIJ inks excel in high-speed, industrial settings with non-porous materials, while TIJ inks are ideal for on-demand, high-resolution printing on porous surfaces.
At ChinaCIJInk.com, Cheef offers a full portfolio of OEM-compatible CIJ and TIJ inks tailored for performance, durability, and cost-efficiency. We also provide customized ink solutions based on your machine brand and production environment.
Need help choosing the right ink? Contact us at sales@cheef.cn or WhatsApp +86 181 6857 5767 for technical consultation and free samples.
