MACHINE SELECTION GUIDE
Sprinter machine model selection is based upon choosing the smallest marking head
that will deliver the required message. Illustrated below are the nine standard machine
model marking head formats based upon print size area.
For messages that are assemled using rubber type kits (letter / number kits), consideration
has to be given to the number of lines and the number of characters per line to properly
select minimum size marking head / machine. Greatly oversizing the machine for a
small message can increase costs per marking impression without corresponding benefit.
Rubber type is secured by ribs (see above drawing) which lock into a ribbed rubber mat.
All rubber type has a minimum of two ribs. The seven sizes of type described below
contain two ribs. Type 5/16" or larger (not illustrated below) contains a minimum of
three ribs thus reducing the lines of type that can be secured in a fixed area. If 5/16" or
larger type is being considered, please contact us for guidance on machine selection
based upon message size content.
A couple of the most common sizes of type used are 1/8" and 9/64" which typically
provide a very clear, easily read ink code-mark on a variety of surfaces.
The number of characters per line varies depending upon the size of the type selected
(larger height type has wider width) and the specific type character (e.g. "W" is wider
than "I"). The chart below shows approximate character height for the letter "S" for
seven common type sizes. The chart also provides a guide to both typical ("8" was
selected) and maximum ("W" is widest) characters that can be accommodated by a
specific Sprinter Model. It is recommended to select the next larger machine model
on tight fits.
