How to mark tubes and bags with PAP logos on paper and cardboard
Sustainability is no longer merely an ethical choice but a strict regulatory requirement. For companies using cellulose-based packaging, environmental labeling on cardboard tubes and paper bags is a crucial step toward ensuring regulatory compliance and demonstrating transparency to the end consumer.
Clearly marking PAP codes (such as PAP 20, PAP 21, or PAP 22) requires industrial printing systems capable of handling porous surfaces, flexible formats, or cylindrical shapes without slowing down packaging lines.
Regulations on the Environmental Labeling of Paper Packaging
In accordance with European and national directives, all packaging placed on the market must be appropriately labeled to facilitate collection, reuse, and recovery. For the paper and cardboard sector, the reference standard requires the use of material identification codes from the PAP family.
PAP 20
Corrugated Cardboard
Shipping and e-commerce boxes, transport packaging, corrugated cardboard protective sheets.
Paper/cardboard collection.
PAP 21
Non-corrugated cardboard
Cardboard cores and tubes for reels, cosmetic cartons, medicine boxes, folding cartons for pasta.
Paper/cardboard collection.
PAP 22
Paper
Paper shopping bags, flour and sugar sacks, bread bags, flexible wrapping paper.
Paper/Cardboard Collection.
In addition to the alphanumeric code enclosed within the standard triangle of arrows (Möbius loop), the marking must clearly indicate the material family and collection instructions (e.g., "Paper Collection").
Why HP TIJ Technology Is the Best Choice for Paper and Cardboard
When it comes to printing PAP logos on absorbent, highly porous materials—such as paper bags or cardboard tubes—Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) technology based on HP technology is considered the industry benchmark.
Compared to older inkjet marking systems or adhesive labels, HP TIJ technology offers clear advantages:
- No maintenance: The printhead is integrated into the cartridge itself. Each time the cartridge is replaced, you get a completely new printhead, eliminating equipment downtime.
- Ultra-high resolution: It prints PAP logos, barcodes, and fine text with photographic sharpness (up to 600 DPI). This ensures that environmental labeling remains legible for the consumer and compliant with regulatory standards.
- Eco-friendly and clean inks: It uses water-based or fast-drying formulations ideal for cellulosic substrates, penetrating the fibers without bleeding and without compromising the packaging's recyclability.
Our Famjet Range: HP TIJ Solutions for Every Production Line Need
To meet diverse needs regarding production, print volume, and cost control, we have developed the Famjet line of industrial markers, equipped with the best HP technology.
Famjet M5: Compactness and Flexibility
Famjet M5 is the ideal entry-level marker for those seeking a reliable, cost-effective, plug-and-play system. It is perfect for integration into existing packaging lines to print PAP 22 logos directly onto paper bags. It features an intuitive interface and allows for quick installation without technical complications.
Famjet Dyplon: Large Formats and Maximum Autonomy (775 ml Bulk)
For applications requiring high-visibility marking or the printing of complex layouts on high-output lines (such as manufacturers of PAP 21 cardboard tubes or large industrial sacks), the Famjet Dyplon represents the top-of-the-line solution:
- 22mm Cartridge: It allows for the printing of environmental logos and text with a greater height than standard cartridges.
- Refill system with 775 ml bulk: Continuous ink supply drastically reduces operating costs per print and eliminates downtime for cartridge changes.
Famjet Pleyon: High Performance and Cost Control (400ml Bulk)
Famjet Pleyon combines the geometric precision of the standard HP cartridge with the efficiency of a centralized ink supply system. Equipped with a connector for a 400 ml bulk ink supply, it offers the perfect balance for medium-to-large production operations looking to automate coding while reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to using individual cartridges alone.
The Advantages of Famjet Direct Marking over Labels
Choosing direct industrial coding for PAP logos on paper and cardboard using our Famjet systems offers immediate benefits:
- Cost Reduction: Eliminates the need to purchase, store, and apply additional paper or plastic labels.
- Real Sustainability: Avoid introducing extraneous glues or silicone-coated substrates that could complicate the recycling of the bag or tube.
- Production Flexibility: It allows environmental information or PAP codes to be modified directly from the marker software, instantly adapting to line format changes.
