Domino Printing Sciences has announced the launch of a dedicated bottle cap printing station, designed to help beverage manufacturers make the transition to label-free bottles. This innovation comes at a time when the beverage industry is seeking to simplify recycling and comply with new environmental regulations.
The company specializes in the development and manufacture of coding, marking and digital printing technologies, and operates internationally. it employs 3,000 people worldwide and sells its products in over 120 countries.
A solution for a circular economy
Domino's new printing station makes it possible to print directly onto HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bottle caps. This technology meets the beverage industry's growing demand for label-free bottles, making them easier to recycle. By doing away with labels, manufacturers can cut production costs and plastic taxes, while helping to reduce the amount of plastic used.
Compliance with new regulations
Governments around the world are introducing legislation to improve plastic recycling rates. In South Korea, for example, a new law will ban labels on water bottles from 2026. Domino has collaborated with several Korean manufacturers to develop a high-speed printing solution for bottle caps, guaranteeing compliance with the new requirements while maintaining production performance.
Advanced printing technology
Domino's printing station is equipped to print variable data codes, including QR codes, at high resolution (up to 900 dpi) and at speeds of up to 44,000 bottles per hour with the Domino K300 monochrome digital printer. This solution includes pre- and post-processing systems to ensure the durability of printed codes, as well as an integrated vision system for automatic print inspection.
Successful first installations in South Korea
Domino has already installed this new station at a major beverage manufacturer in South Korea, marking the first use of this technology in the region. The success of this installation has led to further deployments, as companies recognize the benefits of direct printing on closures in the transition to label-free bottles.
Domino continues to develop its solutions to meet the evolving needs of the beverage industry, particularly in the context of the increasing use of 2D codes and QR codes for traceability and consumer engagement.
