Commercial challenge
In the mid-90s, leading wineries were looking for alternative coding technologies that provided permanent codes on bottles. They also wanted to be able to code wet bottles. This was to prevent the ink (which they’d used up until this point) from being smudged or removed. And to prevent counterfeiters from tampering with the codes.
At the same time, bottle manufacturers wanted to identify the minute a bottle was manufactured and have a permanent record of that time on the bottle. This “minute of manufacture” code had to be applied to the bottle while it was at 600°C and also survive the scorching operating conditions.
Raymax have supplied us with several laser coding systems. The most recent set, run on our fastest lines and is an indication of their reliability.
Solution
Back then, laser coders were not as sophisticated as today. Raymax developed and optimised a custom, non-contact laser system. And in doing so, we solved the problems of both the bottle manufacturers and the wineries. This meant determining the optimum wavelength, spot size, and thermal engineering to withstand the rigours of the environment.
The solution met the highest required speeds, allowing our clients to reach new performance levels.
Results
The first laser coder installed by Raymax was in early 1995. That glass laser marking machine continued to work until it was gracefully retired only a short number of years ago. Since 1995, hundreds of laser coders have been installed in the wine industry. As the technology develops, the cost per code dramatically decreases.
Nearly all Australian wine bottles appearing at your table carry at least one permanent, readable code pioneered by Raymax. High visibility coding and hot glass coding have been adopted globally by our partners.
Why Raymax?
We make laser light work for you. We’ve spent over 30 years demonstrating what’s possible with lasers. In doing so, we’ve helped modernise Australian and New Zealand industries. You’ll be working with a team of physicists and factory-trained engineers—leaders in the supply of laser solutions and photonics equipment. We’re experts in material interaction research. Wherever possible, you’ll be introduced to new technology that can improve operation in ways you might not have imagined possible.
