WS Packaging Group, Inc. ®

Proprietary coating increases variable imaging productivity and package design potential

GREEN BAY, Wis., Dec. 7, 2009—WS Packaging Group, Inc. has introduced a laser marking and coding process more reliable, economical, and sustainable than other technologies used for writing variable data for UPC barcodes, lot and batch numbers, expiration dates, data matrix codes, 2D codes, e-pedigree, and logo brands, among others.

The translucent, water-based laser-markable coating is applied during the printing process. It produces a high-quality black mark when exposed by a low-power laser. Called CodeStream®, the proprietary aqueous coating was developed and is manufactured by FUJIFILM Hunt Chemicals USA, Inc.

CodeStream appears translucent on opaque substrates and white on clear substrates. It can be coated on paper substrates such as pressure-sensitive labels, SBS board, and corrugated cardboard, plus many types of film.

“CodeStream can be applied to a broad base of materials, which ensures its application across a wide range of product categories including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, health and beauty, food, beverage, and medical identification,” said Mark Moorhead, director of marketing. “Using a low-wattage laser marking device, CodeStream produces a high-contrast and high-resolution mark for alphanumeric, linear, stacked and 2D barcodes, and graphics.”

Compared to other marking technologies, CodeStream is environmentally friendly. It uses a non-impact imaging process that does not generate debris or noxious fumes during production, which improves air quality and employee safety. It can decrease production downtime, reduce cleanup and increase speed during the marking process. CodeStream also eliminates the need to purchase, store and dispose of consumables like ink and thermal transfer ribbons, as well as potentially hazardous cleaning chemicals.

“Using CodeStream means the end user removes the need to purchase, store and dispose of all chemicals and fluids in the marking process and related cleanup,” Moorhead said. “And that provides multiple benefits in terms of sustainability. All the user needs is a low-wattage laser to create an image. And unlike other marking methods, CodeStream doesn’t release VOCs, solvents or airborne particulates on the packaging line.”

CodeStream offers track-and-trace e-pedigree capabilities, including a consistently high-verification grade, increased data control efficiencies and reduced reject rates. Production throughput benefits include eliminating printer cleanup, maximized line speeds and marking efficiencies, low duty cycles for increased laser life, reduced reject rates, and negligible machine maintenance.

WS Packaging Group, Inc. has more than 40 years of experience and is one of the largest printing and label converting operations in North America. It operates 17 manufacturing facilities and produces high-quality packaging products for customers ranging in size from small businesses to large, high-volume manufacturers and consumer product goods companies doing business locally, nationally, and in marketplaces worldwide.