Ntermittent & Continuous Thermal Transfer Overprinters for Flexible Packaging Lines

What Is “Intermittent” vs “Continuous” Thermal Transfer Coding? How to Choose the Right One

Thermal Transfer Overprinting (TTO) is widely used for printing dates, batch numbers, barcodes, and QR codes on flexible packaging. However, many manufacturers are unsure whether to choose an intermittent or continuous TTO printer.

Intermittent TTO printers operate by stopping the packaging film momentarily during each print cycle. This method allows high print accuracy and excellent image quality, making it ideal for vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines, lower to medium production speeds, and applications requiring frequent message changes.

Continuous TTO printers, on the other hand, print while the packaging film is moving. They are designed for high-speed horizontal packaging lines where efficiency and minimal downtime are critical. Continuous mode offers faster throughput and reduced mechanical wear but requires precise synchronization with the packaging line.

Choosing the right TTO depends on line speed, packaging machine type, print area, and production volume. Selecting the correct mode ensures stable printing, reduced ribbon waste, and long-term operational reliability.