NGT2+ thermal transfer printer used successfully in continuous operation at Hahn-Schickard

NGT2+ meets all criteria

When looking for a suitable labeling system for stick packs, used among other things for COVID PCR rapid tests, the Allen NGT2+ thermal transfer printer was considered together with labeling systems from other manufacturers. It was crucial that the printing process did not have a negative impact on the biochemistry of the stick pack contents or the packaging itself, as is the case with laser marking, for example. In addition, the print image should have a high resolution to ensure traceability. The reliability of the printing system was another important criterion, as the printing would be done in a multi-shift system.

Up to 60 prints per minute

“Diagraph’s NGT2+ meets all these criteria to a tee, which is why we opted for this device when selecting the printing system,” says Philipp Tepper, head of stick pack production at Hahn-Schickard. “The printer is very reliable and we can mark up to 60 units per minute without any problems.”

Free print image design software

The applied print image contains variable fields, such as the date and time, as well as fixed values, such as the item number. The print data is provided by a control unit that is directly connected to the printer on the production line. The free a:design software from Diagraph is used to design print images. “The commissioning of the printer went smoothly. After the installation, the system was immediately ready for use,” Mr. Tepper says enthusiastically.

Allen NGT2+ runs reliably in three-shift operation

The printer has been used in stick pack production for about two years. In future, the stick packs for COVID PCR rapid tests will also be manufactured in three-shift operation. “The NGT2+ is very robust. There is no downtime except for ribbon changes,” stresses Mr. Tepper. With an additional ribbon cartridge, replenishing ribbons is done in no time and the printer is immediately ready for use again.

All in all, Hahn-Schickard is more than satisfied with the Allen NGT2+ printing system.

About Hahn-Schickard

In trusting cooperation with industry partners, Hahn-Schickard realizes innovative products and develops technologies in the fields of sensor technology, intelligent embedded systems for the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, lab-on-a-chip and analytics, as well as integrated circuit packaging and electrochemical energy systems. More than 250 employees work in research, development and production at four locations in Baden-Württemberg.

For more information, visit www.hahn-schickard.de.