Linx Printing Technologies has launched an IP65-rated version of its best-selling thermal transfer overprinter.  The new Linx TT5 Washdown Printer uses a specially designed Washdown cassette to ensure that the equipment is protected against water and dust ingress.

The new coder is a response to market demand to reduce downtime and other costs associated with washing down thermal transfer printers.  Since unprotected printers are liable to expensive damage if splashed, traditionally additional covers or enclosures are required for wash down – which is inconvenient and wastes time that operators could use for other tasks.  Another area of concern amongst manufacturers is that, traditionally, printers and controllers must be taken off-line for washdown preparation, which adds costly downtime.

Linx’s solution is to supply a special IP65-rated Washdown cassette, which is inserted in place of a standard ribbon cassette prior to washdown.  This fast, simple process is achieved within seconds and seals the printer for maximum protection.

At the same time, the printer’s User Interface controller has been redesigned so that it is IP55-rated when the caps are replaced and the cable set connected out of the box – a fast, easy operation.  The new version is the same width as the standard TT5 printer controller but longer, to enable a fully sealed enclosure.

Typical applications for the TT5 Washdown Printer include food applications where washdown is required to meet hygiene regulations, including meat, fish and frozen food factories, as well as confectionery and snack food industries were products must be free of dust contamination.

Extensive field trials conducted at installations in the UK, USA and Germany confirmed the suitability of the Linx TT5 Washdown Printer in combating fluid and particle ingress in such environments.

“Factory efficiency is paramount, and washdown is an operation that can easily be improved by ensuring that machinery is protected,: explains Rob Bowe, Operations Manager of Reynolds Group Limited.  “The launch of the Linx TT5 Washdown Printer provides a range of food and other manufacturing sector with the means to ensure fast, flexible and safe washdown procedures.”

Contact: Rob Bowe Tel: 09