Bluhm Systeme printed 44 cardboard samples from typical packaging applications using its thermal inkjet printer Markoprint integra Singular 108. Subsequent analysis with professional inspection equipment showed that 93 percent of the printed 2D codes achieved A-Grading and the remaining 7 percent B-Grading. All codes proved reliably machine-readable under the tested conditions.

Code grading assesses parameters such as contrast, edge quality, and print precision against international standards. High grades matter particularly in logistics, shipping, traceability, and retail, where codes are typically captured automatically. For companies that mark cardboard packaging directly, the test results provide greater planning certainty.

Direct printing on cardboard is gaining ground as 2D codes extend well beyond simple product identification. Applications such as the GS1 Digital Link allow additional information to be linked digitally to a single code – provided print quality remains consistently high. The Markoprint integra Singular 108 operates with water-based ink on absorbent surfaces and can be integrated into existing production lines, reducing reliance on applied labels.

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