Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is FUJIFILM CodeStream?
FUJIFILM CodeStream is an aqueous coating that is applied to a substrate and then marked by activation with a CO2 laser.

2. What is FUJIFILM CodeStream used for?
FUJIFILM CodeStream is used by manufacturers to mark variable data on product labels, boxes and cartons during the packaging process. Examples of variable data include codes, lot numbers and expiry dates.

3. What types of marking does FUJIFILM CodeStream replace?
FUJIFILM CodeStream is a preferred alternative to methods such as continuous inkjet, thermal transfer and laser ablation.

4. How does the cost per label or box compare to using these other methods?
The cost of a label or box with a FUJIFILM CodeStream patch will be higher than without. However, savings are achieved because there are no further consumables to either purchase or dispose of, like ink or ribbon; nor is there production down-time due to supply replenishment or unscheduled equipment maintenance. FUJIFILM CodeStream also eliminates VOCs and fluids on the production floor. Compared to laser ablation, FUJIFILM CodeStream eliminates costly filter replacement and allows for much higher line speeds.

5. What substrates accept FUJIFILM CodeStream?
FUJIFILM CodeStream can be coated on paper substrates such as PS labels, SBS board and corrugated cardboard, plus many types of film.

6. How is FUJIFILM CodeStream applied to a substrate?
FUJIFILM CodeStream is applied by flexography and in-line coating systems during the printing process.

7. How does FUJIFILM CodeStream “look” on a substrate?
FUJIFILM CodeStream appears translucent on opaque substrates, and is white on clear substrates.

8. Does FUJIFILM CodeStream require a topcoat?
Yes. FUJIFILM CodeStream accepts most conventional protective topcoats including water-based and UV-curable.

9. What kind of lasers can be used to create a FUJIFILM CodeStream mark?
CO2 lasers of 10W power and higher. For most applications a low power 10.6µm CO2 unit is all that is required.

10. What color is the FUJIFILM CodeStream mark?
FUJIFILM CodeStream produces a black mark.

11. What type of mark can FUJIFILM CodeStream produce?
FUJIFILM CodeStream produces a high contrast, high resolution mark. Alphanumeric, linear, stacked and 2D barcodes and graphics are possible, dependent on the capabilities of the laser marking device.

12. Are the barcodes produced by FUJIFILM CodeStream verifiable?
Yes, due to the high quality of the FUJIFILM CodeStream mark. Barcodes are verifiable by commercial verifiers providing they are created and located in accordance to their published application standard.

13. How does FUJIFILM CodeStream differ from other laser-related marking techniques?
Laser ablation relies on laser power selectively destroying the top ink layer and thereby exposing the surface beneath. This requires more power and/or time than a CodeStream exposure, the consequence being slower line speeds and shorter laser tube life. Ablation also causes the destroyed ink layer to become airborne as particulate, resulting in environmental effluent that can contaminate product and pose operator health concerns.

Some other ‘color change’ technologies rely on a charring effect that at the same time can destroy the topcoat, leaving the resultant mark subject to damage from the environment.

14. Can FUJIFILM CodeStream be used in the ink tray on an offset press?
Not with the products currently available.

15. What is the coverage yield of FUJIFILM CodeStream?
There is no definitive yield factor because coverage varies depending on the application (for example, the complexity of the data involved) and the type of substrate being used. However, as a guideline the average application uses an 8 BCM anilox and has coverage of over 200 msi of patch per pound.

16. How is FUJIFILM CodeStream distributed?
FUJIFILM CodeStream is provided to converters and printers from the manufacturer; FUJIFILM Hunt Chemicals U.S.A., Inc. This means direct support from a multinational corporation, giving a seamless flow of technical advice. Contact us by phone at 1-877-385-4486 or e-mail at info@fujihuntusa.com.