PaladinID launches flexo ink for barcode label industry

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PaladinID has launched an outdoor weather resistant flexographic ink for the barcode label industry.


‘This product was specifically developed for the smart meter market and is suitable for any outdoor label application requiring both a color label and the capability of printing variable information,’ said Dana Ritchie, the company’s owner.


Two years ago, PaladinID was approached by one of its manufacturing customers which had been using a Markem LP-8400 to produce color labels for its outdoor appliances. ‘This particular printer was being discontinued along with the related machine supplies, labels and ribbons,’ explained Ritchie. ‘The customer needed a durable color, variable print label capable of withstanding the fading properties of the sun for a period of 10 to 15 years. Unfortunately, existing flexographic inks only have a maximum outdoor lifespan of three years. The solution involved hiring a chemist and developing a new ink formulation. Today, our testing indicates we have a product that meets our customer’s needs and has an outdoor lifespan of more than 15 years.’


In addition to smart meters, other target markets include manufacturers of electrical panels and transformers; air and gas cylinders; above ground storage tanks and drums for chemical storage.