CIJ Ink Buying Guide: Ink, Make-Up and Solvent Explained

What Every Manufacturer Should Know Before Ordering Continuous Inkjet Supplies

In high-speed manufacturing, a small printed code can carry a big responsibility.

Expiration dates, lot numbers, batch codes and traceability information must remain clear, readable and accurate throughout production, packaging and distribution.

For manufacturers using continuous inkjet (CIJ) printers, achieving consistent print quality requires more than selecting the right equipment. It also requires choosing the correct ink, make-up fluid and cleaning solvent.

Although these products are closely related, they serve different purposes. Selecting the wrong fluid can affect print quality, increase maintenance requirements and potentially interrupt production.

At USinks.com, we believe understanding your ink system is the first step toward making better purchasing decisions.

This guide explains how CIJ ink, make-up fluid and cleaning solvents work, why compatibility matters and what manufacturers should consider before placing an order.

Quick Answer: What Is the Difference Between CIJ Ink, Make-Up Fluid and Solvent?

CIJ ink produces the printed code. Make-up fluid replaces solvent lost through evaporation to maintain proper ink viscosity. Cleaning solvent removes ink residue from compatible printer components during approved maintenance procedures.

These fluids are not automatically interchangeable, even when they share similar chemical ingredients.

Product	Primary Purpose
CIJ Ink	Creates visible dates, lot codes, text and other markings
CIJ Make-Up Fluid	Replenishes evaporated solvent and maintains ink viscosity
CIJ Cleaning Solvent	Removes ink buildup and residue during maintenance

Understanding these differences helps purchasing teams order the correct consumables and helps maintenance personnel protect printing performance.

1. What Is CIJ Ink and How Does It Work?

Continuous inkjet printing is a non-contact coding technology widely used in food and beverage production, pharmaceutical packaging, cosmetics and industrial manufacturing.

Unlike printing technologies that eject ink only when needed, CIJ printers continuously circulate ink through the printing system.

A pressurized stream of ink passes through a small nozzle and separates into droplets. Selected droplets are electrically charged and deflected toward the product or package to create a code. Unused droplets return to the printer through a collection gutter.

This continuous circulation allows CIJ printers to produce codes on moving products, including curved and irregular surfaces.

What is CIJ ink made of?

A typical solvent-based CIJ ink formulation contains several components:

• Colorants: Dyes or pigments that produce the visible marking.

• Solvents: Liquid carriers that help the ink flow and influence drying behavior.

• Resins or binders: Ingredients that help the printed code adhere to a surface.

• Functional additives: Components that control properties such as electrical conductivity, stability and print performance.

The exact formulation varies depending on the ink manufacturer, printer and intended application.

Why ink selection matters

A printing application involves more than selecting black ink.

Different manufacturing environments may require specific performance characteristics, including:

• Fast drying on moving production lines

• Strong adhesion to plastics, glass or metal

• Resistance to moisture, abrasion or handling

• High contrast on colored packaging

• Readable barcodes and traceability information

• Performance under refrigeration, condensation or elevated temperatures

An ink that works well on cardboard may not perform adequately on a plastic bottle or coated metal container.

USinks Expert Tip: Always evaluate ink compatibility with both the printer and the actual material being coded. A compatible printer fluid is not necessarily the best formulation for every substrate.

2. What Is CIJ Make-Up Fluid?

Make-up fluid, sometimes called make-up solvent, is an essential consumable in many continuous inkjet printing systems.

Its primary function is to replace solvent that evaporates from the circulating ink during normal printer operation.

Why do CIJ printers need make-up fluid?

As ink circulates through the printer, some of its solvent evaporates.

This changes the concentration and viscosity of the remaining ink.

Viscosity describes a fluid's resistance to flowing. When viscosity changes beyond the printer's operating requirements, it can interfere with stable droplet formation and consistent printing.

Many CIJ systems monitor ink viscosity and automatically introduce make-up fluid when needed.

This helps maintain the ink within its required operating range.

What happens when make-up fluid runs low?

Depending on the printer model, insufficient make-up fluid may contribute to:

• Ink viscosity warnings

• Inconsistent droplet formation

• Reduced printing reliability

• Printer alarms

• Interrupted production

Modern printers may alert operators when make-up supplies need replenishment.

Is make-up fluid the same as ink?

No.

Ink contains the components needed to produce a printed image, including colorants.

Make-up fluid is formulated to replace the solvent lost during operation. It generally does not contain the same colorant package as the ink.

Adding ink does not perform the same function as replenishing evaporated solvent.

Likewise, adding make-up fluid does not replace the colorant and other ink components consumed during printing.

USinks Expert Tip: Never select make-up fluid based solely on whether it contains MEK, ethanol or another familiar solvent. Always verify the exact product number and approved ink-system compatibility.

3. What Is CIJ Cleaning Solvent?

Cleaning solvent serves a different purpose from both ink and make-up fluid.

During normal operation, ink residue can accumulate around certain printer components, particularly the printhead and surrounding surfaces.

Approved cleaning fluids help remove this residue during maintenance.

Depending on the printer and cleaning procedure, they may be used for:

• Removing dried ink deposits

• Cleaning designated printhead surfaces

• Removing contamination from approved components

• Supporting manufacturer-recommended maintenance procedures

Can CIJ make-up fluid be used as a cleaner?

Not automatically.

Some manufacturers offer fluids with related solvent chemistry, but that does not mean every make-up fluid is approved for cleaning.

Cleaning products may have different formulations, intended uses and material compatibility requirements.

Using an unapproved cleaner can potentially damage seals, plastics, coatings or other components.

Always consult the printer manufacturer's maintenance instructions before applying cleaning fluid.

Important: Never pour generic solvent, cleaning fluid or an unapproved chemical into a printer's ink or make-up reservoir.

4. CIJ Ink vs. Make-Up vs. Cleaning Solvent: Why Compatibility Is Critical

Industrial inkjet systems depend on carefully controlled fluid chemistry.

Even when two products appear similar, differences in chemical composition can affect their performance.

For example, two inks described as MEK-based may contain different resins, additives and colorants.

Likewise, two make-up fluids may use the same primary solvent but have different approved applications.

Before purchasing, verify these four details:

1. Printer manufacturer and model

Identify the exact CIJ printer. Different equipment families may require different ink and fluid formulations.

2. Existing ink product number

Check the ink identification number on the container, machine display or manufacturer documentation.

3. Matching make-up fluid

Confirm that the make-up product is specified for the ink and printer combination.

4. Application requirements

Consider the substrate, line speed, temperature, handling conditions and required durability.

Do not assume products are interchangeable simply because they are marketed for the same printer brand.

5. Understanding Common CIJ Ink Chemistries

CIJ inks are available in different formulations to meet the demands of industrial coding applications.

MEK-Based CIJ Inks

Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) is a widely used solvent in industrial inkjet printing.

MEK-based formulations are often selected for applications requiring fast drying and coding on nonporous surfaces.

Common applications include:

• Plastic bottles and containers

• Metal cans and components

• Glass packaging

• Flexible films

• High-speed packaging lines

However, adhesion and chemical resistance depend on the complete ink formulation, not the solvent alone.

Ethanol-Based CIJ Inks

Ethanol-based formulations provide another option for certain industrial printing applications.

They may be selected where an approved ethanol-based system meets the manufacturer's substrate, performance and operational requirements.

Drying behavior, adhesion and suitability should be verified for the specific ink rather than assumed from its solvent category.

Acetone-Based CIJ Inks

Some CIJ ink systems use acetone-based formulations for applications requiring particular drying or performance characteristics.

As with other solvent-based inks, the correct choice depends on the printer's approved fluids and the printing environment.

Pigmented CIJ Inks

Pigmented inks may be appropriate when manufacturers need high-opacity or high-contrast codes.

For example, light-colored printing on dark surfaces may require a specially formulated pigmented ink.

Not every CIJ printer is designed to handle pigmented formulations, so equipment compatibility must be verified.

The key takeaway: Solvent chemistry is important, but it is only one factor in choosing industrial ink. Adhesion, contrast, drying requirements and printer compatibility must all be considered together.

6. How to Choose the Right CIJ Ink for Your Production Line

Choosing the correct CIJ consumables begins with understanding the application.

Step 1: Identify what you are printing on

Consider whether the surface is:

• Polyethylene or polypropylene

• PET plastic

• Glass

• Aluminum or steel

• Flexible film

• Paperboard or other absorbent packaging

Surface coatings, treatments and additives can influence ink adhesion.

Step 2: Consider production speed

Faster lines may leave less time for printed codes to dry before products reach conveyors, guides or downstream packaging equipment.

The appropriate ink must dry quickly enough for the actual production process.

Step 3: Evaluate the operating environment

Temperature, humidity, condensation and exposure to cleaning chemicals may all affect coding performance.

A code that looks acceptable immediately after printing may not withstand the conditions it encounters later.

Step 4: Determine the required code durability

Consider whether codes must resist:

• Smearing

• Rubbing or abrasion

• Moisture

• Product handling

• Cleaning or processing chemicals

Evaluate these properties using real application samples whenever possible.

Step 5: Confirm printer and fluid compatibility

Finally, match the approved ink and make-up products to the equipment.

This is particularly important when purchasing replacement consumables for existing printers.

7. Why the Cheapest CIJ Ink May Not Be the Lowest-Cost Choice

When purchasing industrial inkjet supplies, the price per cartridge is only one part of the equation.

Manufacturers should consider the total cost of operating their coding equipment.

Important factors include:

Ink consumption: How much ink does the printer use at normal production volumes?

Make-up consumption: How much solvent is required to maintain stable operation?

Maintenance requirements: Does the application require frequent cleaning or intervention?

Code reliability: Are operators experiencing smudged codes, reprints or rejected packages?

Production interruptions: How much time is lost when the printer requires attention?

Product compatibility: Is the purchased fluid correctly specified for the existing equipment?

A lower purchase price does not necessarily mean lower operating costs.

USinks Expert Tip: When comparing consumables, evaluate actual usage, print performance and operating requirements instead of relying exclusively on container price.

8. Common CIJ Ink Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced purchasing teams can encounter problems when ordering replacement fluids.

Here are five mistakes worth avoiding.

Mistake 1: Ordering by printer brand alone

Two printers from the same manufacturer may require different consumables.

Always verify the model and fluid identification number.

Mistake 2: Assuming every MEK-based fluid is interchangeable

MEK describes one chemical component, not a universal compatibility standard.

The complete fluid formulation matters.

Mistake 3: Confusing make-up fluid with cleaning solvent

Both may contain solvents, but their intended functions are different.

Check the product documentation before ordering or using either one.

Mistake 4: Ignoring changes in packaging materials

A change in bottle resin, surface treatment, label material or film coating may affect adhesion.

Reevaluate the ink if the packaging substrate changes.

Mistake 5: Selecting consumables based only on price

Incorrect or poorly matched fluids may create costs that exceed the initial purchasing savings.

The goal should be dependable coding performance at a competitive total operating cost.

9. Where to Buy CIJ Ink, Make-Up Fluid and Solvent Online

At USinks.com, industrial inkjet consumables are our specialty.

We help manufacturers, packaging operations and maintenance teams source industrial inks, make-up fluids, solvents and cleaners for a variety of coding and marking systems.

Our product range includes solutions from recognized manufacturers such as LEIBINGER and Squid Ink, along with select replacement fluids for other industrial coding equipment.

Shop Squid Ink CIJ Consumables

Our online selection includes products such as:

• Squid Ink CIJ 9030 Black Ink

• Squid Ink CIJ 9015 Yellow Ink

• Squid Ink CIJ 9040 High-Adhesion Black Ink

• Squid Ink CIJ 9090 Make-Up Fluid

• Squid Ink CIJ 9090 Solvent/Cleaner

Product selection should always be based on the applicable printer and fluid specifications.

Browse CIJ Ink & Make-Up:
https://usinks.com/collections/cij-ink-and-makeup

Explore Squid Ink Inks & Solvents:
https://usinks.com/collections/squid-inks-solvents

Shop LEIBINGER Industrial Inks and Solvents

USinks also supports LEIBINGER continuous inkjet printing systems with access to compatible industrial inks and solvent products.

Registered customers can review available LEIBINGER products and pricing through the online catalog.

Explore LEIBINGER Products:
https://usinks.com/collections/leibinger

Not Sure Which Fluid You Need?

Our team can help you identify products based on your existing printer, ink identification number and application requirements.

Before contacting us, have the printer model and current consumable part numbers available. This makes it easier to review compatibility.

10. Frequently Asked Questions About CIJ Ink, Make-Up and Solvents

What is CIJ ink used for?

CIJ ink is used to print expiration dates, lot numbers, batch codes, serial numbers and other identification information on products and packaging. Continuous inkjet printing is commonly used on high-speed production lines.

What is the difference between CIJ ink and make-up fluid?

CIJ ink creates the printed marking. Make-up fluid replaces solvent lost through evaporation and helps maintain the correct ink viscosity during operation.

Is CIJ make-up fluid the same as solvent?

Make-up fluid is a type of solvent formulation used in CIJ systems. However, the general term "solvent" can also refer to cleaning products or individual chemical ingredients. Always confirm the intended use and product number.

Can I use any MEK-based make-up fluid in my CIJ printer?

No. MEK-based fluids are not universally interchangeable. Use the exact approved make-up product or a documented compatible alternative for the printer and ink system.

Why does my CIJ printer use so much make-up fluid?

Make-up consumption is influenced by factors such as printer design, solvent evaporation, operating conditions and runtime. Higher-than-expected usage should be evaluated against the printer manufacturer's specifications and normal operating conditions.

What happens if I put the wrong ink in a CIJ printer?

Using an incompatible ink may affect viscosity control, droplet formation, adhesion or printer reliability. If the wrong fluid has been introduced, follow the manufacturer's instructions and seek qualified technical assistance before continuing operation.

How do I know which CIJ ink to buy?

Start with the printer manufacturer, model and existing ink identification number. Then confirm the approved fluid combination and whether the ink meets the application requirements.

Are CIJ ink and TIJ ink interchangeable?

No. Continuous inkjet (CIJ) and thermal inkjet (TIJ) use different printing technologies and fluid delivery systems. Their consumables should not be treated as interchangeable.

Does CIJ ink work on plastic and glass?

Many CIJ inks are designed for plastic, glass and other nonporous materials. Actual adhesion depends on the specific formulation, surface properties and operating conditions.

Where can I buy CIJ ink and make-up fluid online?

USinks.com offers industrial CIJ inks, make-up fluids, solvents and cleaners, including products from Squid Ink and LEIBINGER. Customers can browse available products online or contact the USinks team for assistance identifying the correct consumables.

Final Thoughts: The Right Fluid Helps Keep Production Moving

Continuous inkjet printing depends on a carefully balanced relationship between equipment, ink chemistry and operating conditions.

Understanding the difference between CIJ ink, make-up fluid and cleaning solvent is an important part of protecting that balance.

Ink creates the code. Make-up fluid maintains the proper fluid characteristics. Cleaning solvents support approved maintenance procedures.

Each plays a different role, and selecting the correct products helps maintain reliable printing performance.

At USinks.com, we combine industrial coding and marking experience with an online selection of inks, solvents and printer consumables to make purchasing easier for manufacturers.

Whether you are replacing an existing ink cartridge, sourcing make-up fluid or reviewing options for a new application, our goal is to help you order confidently.

Need CIJ Ink, Make-Up Fluid or Solvent?

Get the right consumables for your industrial coding system.

Shop online or speak with the USinks team about your printer and application.

Shop: https://usinks.com

Call: (833) 424-9227
Email: info@usinks.com

USinks.com | Industrial Inks, Solvents and Coding Solutions

Sources and Technical References

1. LEIBINGER, "Why Ink Determines CIJ Success" (June 2026). Explains why printer, ink, substrate and production environment must be properly matched.
   https://leibinger-group.com/blog/why-ink-determines-cij-success

2. Domino Printing Sciences, "What Is Continuous Inkjet Printing?" Technical explanation of CIJ droplet formation, ink circulation, solvent evaporation and viscosity control.
   https://www.domino-printing.com/en-gb/blog/continuous-inkjet-cij-printer

3. Videojet Technologies, "Continuous Inkjet Printer FAQ." Overview of continuous inkjet operation and industrial coding applications.
   https://www.videojet.com/us/homepage/resources/faqs/faq-small-character.html

4. Videojet Technologies, "V7206 Continuous Inkjet Make-Up." Manufacturer reference explaining how make-up solvent replaces evaporated fluid during normal CIJ operation.
   https://www.videojet.com/us/homepage/products/inks-and-ribbons/v7206.html

5. USinks.com, "CIJ Ink and Make-Up." Product reference for Squid Ink CIJ inks, make-up fluids and cleaners.
   https://usinks.com/collections/cij-ink-and-makeup

6. USinks.com, "LEIBINGER Industrial Printers, Inks & Solvents." Product and compatibility guidance for LEIBINGER equipment and fluids.
   https://usinks.com/collections/leibinger

7. USinks.com, "About Us." Company background, product specialties and customer support information.
   https://usinks.com/pages/about-us