We recently ran our new red coding ink through three tests that printed codes on metal routinely face: tape peeling, alcohol wipes, and fingernail scratching. The code survived all three without lifting, fading, or abrasion. Production dates, batch numbers, and barcodes have to stay readable through exactly this kind of handling — and this one did.

The ink was printed onto a metal surface with a standard industrial CIJ printer, allowed to dry, and then put through each test in turn.

Test 1: Transparent tape adhesion

A strip of transparent adhesive tape was pressed firmly onto the printed code and peeled off, then the cycle was repeated several times. The code never lifted. No red ink transferred to the tape, and the marking stayed sharp after every round.

Test 2: Alcohol wipe resistance

An alcohol-soaked cotton pad was rubbed across the code again and again. After each pass, the cotton was checked for red staining. It stayed white throughout, and the code showed no fading or smearing — the kind of performance needed on production lines cleaned with alcohol-based sanitizers.

Test 3: Fingernail scratch resistance

The code was scratched hard with a fingernail, many times, across the full printed area. Even after that treatment it remained fully legible, with no visible abrasion or removal.

Key product features

• Bonds firmly to metal, rigid plastics, and packaging films

• Holds up to repeated wiping with alcohol-based cleaners

• Stays legible under scratching and mechanical abrasion

• Dries fast enough for high-speed production lines

• Prints sharp, clean codes with minimal bleed

Recommended applications

• Production dates and expiry dates

• Batch numbers and lot codes

• QR codes and barcodes

• Serial numbers

• Logos and brand marks

Compatible substrates

• Metal: steel, aluminum, coated metals

• Rigid plastics

• Flexible packaging films

• Cardboard and coated paper

Availability

The red coding ink is available now for industrial customers. Samples and technical data sheets can be requested through the company website or the sales team.

FAQ

Q: Is this red ink suitable for food packaging? It is formulated for industrial coding. If your application involves direct food contact or specific regulatory requirements, confirm compliance with our technical team first.

Q: Can it be used on glass or other non-porous surfaces? Metal is the substrate we have tested. The high-adhesion formula also works on many non-porous surfaces, but a trial on your own material is recommended.

Q: How long should the code dry before tape or alcohol testing? The ink dries quickly. For testing purposes, let the printed code cure for the time given in the technical data sheet first.

Q: Does the ink need pre-treatment on metal? Clean, dry, oil-free surfaces give the best adhesion. Most standard metals need no primer.

Q: Will it run in any inkjet printer? It is formulated for industrial CIJ printers. Check compatibility with your specific model before use.