Direct-to-box printing is rapidly becoming the preferred way to apply barcodes, product information, shipping data, and graphics directly onto corrugated packaging. Instead of applying labels or relying on older coding equipment, manufacturers are increasingly using thermal inkjet (TIJ) technology to print high-resolution information directly onto boxes as they move through production lines. The HSAJET® Infinity MkII platform represents the next step forward in this approach, combining advanced TIJ printing, scalable print heights, and improved production reliability designed for modern packaging environments.
Why Direct-to-Box Printing Is Growing
For many years, labels were the standard solution for marking corrugated boxes. While labeling systems can work well, they also introduce additional cost, equipment, and maintenance to the production line. Label rolls must be replaced, applicators must be maintained, and misapplied labels can create delays or rework.
Direct-to-box printing eliminates these issues by printing information directly onto the box surface during production. Instead of applying a label, the printer applies the code, barcode, or graphic directly to the packaging as it moves along the line.
This approach allows manufacturers to print information such as barcodes, product identification, lot numbers, expiration dates, shipping data, and graphics without adding extra steps to the packaging process. As production speeds increase and packaging lines become more automated, direct printing offers a simpler and more efficient solution.
The Role of TIJ Technology in Package Coding
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) technology has become a popular choice for industrial coding and marking because it offers both speed and precision. Modern TIJ printers can produce high-resolution prints while operating at production speeds that match high-volume packaging lines.
Unlike older marking technologies, TIJ printing allows detailed graphics, scannable barcodes, and crisp text to be printed directly onto corrugated packaging. This makes it well suited for logistics, case coding, distribution packaging, and product identification.
The HSAJET Infinity platform has been widely used for these applications, and the new Infinity MkII system builds on that foundation with several important improvements.
What Makes the Infinity MkII Different
The Infinity MkII printers are built on HP TIJ 4.0 technology and are designed for high-speed industrial printing environments. The system can print at speeds up to 488 meters per minute while maintaining resolutions up to 1200 × 1200 DPI. This allows manufacturers to print detailed codes and graphics without slowing the production line.
One of the most important upgrades in the MkII platform is Smart Servicing Technology. In many TIJ systems, printheads can dry out during idle periods, which can affect print quality when production restarts. Smart Servicing Technology helps prevent this by maintaining the printhead and keeping the nozzles ready for printing. As a result, operators can restart production with less maintenance and fewer interruptions.
The system also uses a high-capacity bulk ink supply. With 775 ml ink cartridges providing a stable ink source, the printer can operate for longer production runs without frequent cartridge changes. This helps reduce downtime and supports continuous high-volume printing.
Flexible Print Heights for Different Packaging Needs
Different packaging applications require different print sizes, and the Infinity MkII platform is designed to scale accordingly.
The Infinity MkII 44 mm system provides a compact solution for high-resolution coding and marking applications where a moderate print height is sufficient. It is well suited for printing barcodes, product information, and logistics data on standard corrugated cases.
For operations that require larger layouts or more lines of information, the Infinity MkII 88 mm configuration expands the available print area significantly. By combining multiple printheads, the system can produce larger graphics and multi-line variable data prints directly on boxes and shipping cartons.
Both configurations use InkDraw 3 software, which allows operators to design print layouts, manage variable data, and print directly from databases or PDF files. This flexibility makes the system adaptable to a wide range of production environments.
Integration With Modern Production Lines
Packaging lines today rely heavily on automation, and printing systems must integrate smoothly with other equipment. The Infinity MkII platform supports this through accessories such as the Infinity Interface Box.
The HSAJET Infinity Interface Box enables communication between the printer and external equipment such as sensors, conveyors, and control systems. With flexible input and output connections and LED signal indicators, the Infinity Interface Box makes it easier to synchronize printing with product movement along the production line.
This allows manufacturers to automate printing triggers and maintain accurate coding even at high production speeds.
The Future of Direct-to-Box Printing
As manufacturers continue to streamline packaging operations, direct-to-box printing will play an increasingly important role. Eliminating labels reduces costs, simplifies packaging processes, and allows high-resolution information to be applied directly during production.
With faster speeds, larger print heights, improved maintenance technology, and flexible integration capabilities, the HSAJET Infinity MkII series represents a new standard for direct-to-box TIJ printing.
For companies looking to improve efficiency while maintaining high-quality package coding, the Infinity MkII platform provides a powerful and scalable solution for modern production lines.
HSAUSA has low-cost inkjet printing and labeling solutions in combination with our pouch and carton feeding systems. We are a Solution provider for marking and coding your products. Our featured feeding and labeling system, VFS-1000 (Vertical Feeding System) and Labeling System is a prime example of a diverse product feeding system that allows for pouch labeling, pouch printing, carton labeling, carton printing, zippered pouches, zippered bags, standup pouches, auto bottom cartons, coffee bags, foil pouches, paper bags, bags with handles, and more! For more info on our Top 3 Viewed Videos on Our YouTube Channel or all our products, call 732-324-0800 or email sales@hsausa.com
