Marking rubber strips for product differentiation

This may not be answer you are looking for, but perhaps laser marking may be it. I can't give you all the answers here, as there are a lot of variables. I am not with appllications expertise, only do laser systems design.

Something "cheap" is relative. Laser systems are not $20 items, but certainly may be perhaps in-line with on-going/continuing things your company is doing.

I am not well attuned to actual applications and not able to remark on effects of marking on rubber products. Laser marking works on most all materials. Only the results are the variable(s). Take a look at:

http://www.controllaser.com/

Suggest you make the inquiry. It's a freebie. That's like cheap.

With these methods, the process time would be greatly accelerated over manual or mechanical. And yes, the a laser system could be purchased stand-alone or provided with integration for your conveyor system.

Hope this helps!

Is this a continuous strip either extruded or slit from a mill or calender, or are the strips cut to a specific length? Does the marking need to be along the entire length? Also, do you use an anti-stick agent, either clear or a floc type of powder?

Continuous strips, I'm thinking of putting the application after the anti tack. It doesn't have to be a continuous marking but fairly close. The strips will later be cut into 13" lengths.

Saw your post and was wondering if you solved it. I saw a set up that included some sort of water based ink than was applied by controlled flow. The ink being prone to thickening and causing spills on the rubber strip has posed problems for this client. I manufacture Ashless Crayons but application on the strip is an issue cause of the thickness and needs constant monitoring. Do let me know how you solved this problem.