Discover how Memjet’s revolutionary inkjet technology is transforming on-demand label printing and why Arrow Systems leads the industry in Duraflex, DuraCore, and VersaPass support.
Memjet technology revolutionizes digital label printing by combining the speed of flexographic presses with the flexibility of digital. Using a single-pass printhead array and water-based pigment inks, Memjet-powered printers like the ArrowJet Aqua 330R produce photo-quality color labels at up to 150 fpm — without plates, setup waste, or long lead times. This guide explains how Memjet works, why it’s ideal for short-to-medium runs, and how to choose the right Memjet printer for your business.
Memjet technology is a high-speed, water-based inkjet printing technology that uses a stationary printhead spanning the full width of the media to print at production speeds up to 150 feet per minute. Unlike traditional scanning printheads, Memjet’s single-pass architecture delivers vibrant color labels in a single pass — combining production-grade speed with on-demand digital flexibility. It uses water-based pigment inks (no VOCs, no ventilation required) and achieves 1600 x 1600 dpi resolution for photo-quality output on paper, polypropylene, PET, and synthetic label stocks.
Memjet technology represents a breakthrough in high-speed, high-quality Inkjet printing. Unlike traditional thermal transfer or laser printing, Memjet uses a unique stationary printhead array that spans the entire width of the page, enabling incredibly fast print speeds without sacrificing quality.
1. Page-Wide Printhead Array
Unlike conventional inkjet printers that move a printhead back and forth, Memjet’s stationary array covers the full media width. This design eliminates mechanical delays and enables continuous high-speed printing.
2. High-Density Nozzle Configuration
Memjet printheads contain thousands of microscopic nozzles that deliver precise ink droplets at high frequencies. This density enables photo-quality printing at production speeds.
3. Advanced Ink Chemistry
Memjet’s aqueous pigment inks provide vibrant colors, water resistance, and durability suitable for industrial labeling applications.
Feature | Memjet Technology | Traditional Inkjet | Flexographic |
Print Speed | Up to 150 fpm | 30–60 fpm | 200+ fpm |
Setup Time | Zero (digital file) | Zero | 1–4 hours |
Minimum Order | 1 label | 1 label | 1,000+ labels |
Color Quality | Photo-quality 1600 dpi | 600–1200 dpi | 133–175 lpi |
Ink Type | Water-based pigment | UV or solvent | Water/solvent |
Best For | Short-to-medium runs | Specialty applications | Long runs |
Cost Per Label | Higher on long runs | Medium | Lowest at volume |
Memjet has evolved through several technology generations, each optimized for specific applications. Arrow Systems provides expert support across all three platforms.
Duraflex represents Memjet’s modular printhead platform designed for integration into OEM systems. This technology powers many industrial label printers and packaging systems.
Key Features:
Modular design for flexible integration
High-speed continuous printing
Durable aqueous pigment inks
Suitable for labels, packaging, and commercial print
Common Applications:
Industrial label printing systems
Direct-to-package printing
Commercial print applications
Custom OEM integrations
Arrow Systems Duraflex Expertise:
Our engineering team has extensive experience with Duraflex-based systems, providing:
Technical consultation for Duraflex integration
Printhead maintenance and replacement
Ink system optimization
Troubleshooting and repair services
DuraCore is Memjet’s integrated print engine designed for high-volume production environments. This technology powers professional label presses and high-speed printing systems.
Key Features:
Integrated print engine design
Production-speed printing capabilities
Enhanced durability for 24/7 operations
Advanced media handling
Common Applications:
High-volume label production
Commercial printing operations
In-house label manufacturing
Print service providers
Arrow Systems DuraCore Expertise:
We provide comprehensive DuraCore support including:
Production workflow optimization
Preventive maintenance programs
Performance tuning for high-volume operations
Emergency repair and replacement services
VersaPass represents Memjet’s single-pass printing technology optimized for specific industrial applications. This platform enables high-speed, single-pass printing on various substrates.
Key Features:
Single-pass printing architecture
Optimized for specific substrates
High-speed production capabilities
Flexible configuration options
Common Applications:
Specialized label applications
Industrial marking and coding
Custom printing systems
OEM integration projects
Arrow Systems VersaPass Expertise:
Our engineering team offers:
Custom VersaPass system design
Substrate optimization and testing
Integration with existing production lines
Ongoing technical support and maintenance
DuraCore is Memjet’s integrated print engine designed for high-volume production environments. This technology powers professional label presses and high-speed printing systems.
Key Features:
Integrated print engine design
Production-speed printing capabilities
Enhanced durability for 24/7 operations
Advanced media handling
Common Applications:
High-volume label production
Commercial printing operations
In-house label manufacturing
Print service providers
Arrow Systems DuraCore Expertise:
We provide comprehensive DuraCore support including:
Production workflow optimization
Preventive maintenance programs
Performance tuning for high-volume operations
Emergency repair and replacement services
Arrow Systems provides expert support, consumables, and engineering services for various Memjet-based printing systems. Our experienced team can assist with troubleshooting, maintenance, and optimization across multiple platforms.
Trojan Label, a brand under the AstroNova portfolio, manufactures professional-grade label printers utilizing Memjet technology. These systems are designed for high-volume production environments.
Common Support Needs:
Printhead maintenance and replacement
Ink system troubleshooting
Media handling optimization
Performance tuning for high-speed operations
Arrow Systems Services for Trojan Systems:
Our engineering team provides technical consultation, preventive maintenance, and repair services for Trojan T2-C and related models. We stock compatible consumables and replacement parts to minimize downtime.
As your printing needs evolve, upgrading your Memjet-based system can deliver significant performance improvements, cost savings, and enhanced capabilities. Arrow Systems provides comprehensive upgrade programs for all major Memjet-based printer manufacturers, helping you transition smoothly to newer technology platforms.
Many early Memjet adopters are running systems based on VersaPass technology. While VersaPass delivered breakthrough speed and quality for its time, upgrading to Duraflex technology offers substantial advantages:
Benefits of Upgrading VersaPass to Duraflex:
Modular design allows easier maintenance and component replacement
Enhanced ink chemistry improves durability and substrate compatibility
Better integration capabilities with modern workflow systems
Improved reliability with updated printhead architecture
Extended media support including challenging substrates
Arrow Systems Upgrade Services:
Our engineering team evaluates your existing VersaPass system and designs a custom upgrade path to Duraflex technology. We handle:
System assessment and compatibility analysis
Printhead and ink system replacement
Software/firmware updates
Integration testing with your existing workflow
Operator training on new features
Trade-in credit for your existing equipment
For operations requiring production-level performance, upgrading from VersaPass directly to DuraCore provides the highest performance improvement:
Benefits of Upgrading VersaPass to DuraCore:
Production-speed printing for high-volume environments
Integrated print engine design for 24/7 reliability
Advanced media handling for complex applications
Enterprise workflow integration capabilities
Scalability for growing production demands
Arrow Systems Upgrade Services:
Our team manages complete system transitions, including:
Production requirement assessment
Custom DuraCore integration planning
Installation and calibration
Workflow optimization for maximum throughput
Staff training programs
Ongoing production support
Many facilities start with Duraflex-based systems for flexibility and later need the production capabilities of DuraCore. This upgrade path is increasingly common as businesses grow:
Benefits of Upgrading Duraflex to DuraCore:
3–5x speed improvement for high-volume production
Enhanced durability for continuous operation
Advanced automation features reduce operator intervention
Better integration with ERP and production systems
Lower cost per label at volume
Arrow Systems Upgrade Services:
We specialize in helping Duraflex users transition to DuraCore:
ROI analysis demonstrating upgrade value
Phased transition planning to minimize downtime
Equipment trade-in and credit programs
Installation and performance optimization
Workflow reconfiguration for production environments
Long-term maintenance program setup
Arrow Systems provides tailored upgrade programs for all major Memjet-based printer manufacturers, ensuring you can modernize your equipment regardless of brand.
Trojan Label systems utilizing Memjet technology can be upgraded to newer platforms or transitioned to alternative solutions as production needs change.
Available Upgrade Paths:
Trojan T2-C to newer models: Trade-in programs for the latest Trojan production presses
Technology transitions: Move from older Trojan systems to ArrowJet DuraCore platforms
Performance upgrades: Enhancement packages for existing Trojan installations
Arrow Systems Services for Trojan Upgrades:
System evaluation and upgrade recommendations
Trade-in valuation and credit application
New system installation and integration
Data/workflow migration services
Operator retraining programs.
Afinia’s desktop and light production systems serve as entry points into color label printing. As businesses grow, upgrading to production-level systems becomes essential.
Available Upgrade Paths:
Afinia L301/L501 to production systems: Trade-up to industrial-grade ArrowJet systems
Technology upgrade: Move from Afinia thermal/inkjet to Memjet DuraCore performance
Capacity expansion: Multiple printer integration for growing operations
Arrow Systems Services for Afinia Upgrades:
Business growth assessment and upgrade planning
Trade-in programs for Afinia equipment
Production system recommendations
Seamless workflow transitions
Training for increased capabilities
VIP Color’s high-speed systems (VP500, VP550, VP650) can be upgraded or transitioned to newer technology platforms.
Available Upgrade Paths:
VP500/VP550 to VP650: Upgrade within the VIP Color lineup for increased speed
VIP Color to ArrowJet: Transition to ArrowJet DuraCore for enhanced integration
Performance optimization: Upgrade packages for existing VIP Color installations
Arrow Systems Services for VIP Color Upgrades:
Performance analysis and upgrade recommendations
Trade-in credit for existing VIP Color equipment
Installation and calibration services
Workflow optimization for maximum throughput
Ongoing production support
The Kirk Rudy FireJet 4C and related industrial printing systems can be upgraded to maintain competitive performance or transitioned to newer platforms.
Available Upgrade Paths:
FireJet 4C enhancement packages: Performance upgrades for existing installations
FireJet to ArrowJet transition: Complete system modernization with trade-in programs
Integration upgrades: Enhanced workflow and automation capabilities
Arrow Systems Services for Kirk Rudy Upgrades:
Comprehensive system evaluation
Custom upgrade planning for production environments
Trade-in programs for Kirk Rudy equipment
Installation, calibration, and optimization
Preventive maintenance program implementation
Emergency support during transition periods
Arrow Systems offers attractive trade-in programs to make upgrading your Memjet-based printing equipment more affordable:
How Our Trade-In Program Works:
System Evaluation
Trade-In Credit
Seamless Transition
Data Migration
Training
Benefits of Trading In Through Arrow Systems:
Maximized trade-in value
Single-source convenience
Coordinated logistics
Expert installation
Increasing Production Demands
Upgrading to DuraCore technology provides the speed and reliability needed for high-volume production.
Cost Per Label Reduction
Improved efficiency, reduced ink consumption, and lower maintenance costs deliver better ROI.
Enhanced Integration Capabilities
Modern systems integrate seamlessly with ERP and automation systems.
Substrate and Application Expansion
Print on new substrates, add specialty inks, and expand capabilities.
Extended Support Availability
Ensure ongoing technical support and consumables availability.
Deep expertise across Duraflex, DuraCore, and VersaPass platforms.
Technical Consultation
Preventive Maintenance
Emergency Repair
Printhead Services
Consumables Supply
Workflow Optimization
Support for OEM systems, production presses, specialized applications, and third-party equipment.
Long-term partnership approach to maximize uptime and performance.
Memjet uses a single-pass printhead that spans the entire media width, printing the full page in one pass. Traditional inkjets use a scanning head that moves back and forth, making them approximately 3–5x slower than Memjet at comparable quality.
Yes. Memjet uses pigment-based water inks that offer excellent water resistance, UV stability, and scratch resistance — suitable for food, beverage, cosmetic, and industrial labels.
Most Memjet label printers support media widths up to 12.75 inches (323 mm), accommodating a wide range of label and flexible packaging applications.
Yes. Memjet printers handle paper, polypropylene (BOPP), polyethylene, PET, and other synthetics with proper ink and media compatibility.
Memjet prints at 150 fpm (45 m/min) in full color — approximately 3–5x faster than typical toner-based digital label printers.
Food and beverage, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, cannabis, chemicals, and e-commerce businesses benefit most from Memjet’s fast turnaround and high-quality short runs.
No. Because Memjet uses water-based inks without VOCs or ozone, no special ventilation is required—unlike UV or solvent inkjet systems.
Cost per label varies by coverage, but Memjet typically ranges from $0.01–0.05 per label, competitive with flexo on runs of 500–10,000 labels.
Absolutely. Memjet supports full variable data printing including sequential numbers, barcodes (UPC, QR, Code 128), and personalized text in a single pass.
Memjet printheads are designed for longevity, typically lasting millions of linear feet with proper maintenance and cleaning protocols.
✓ Single-Pass Speed: Memjet prints at 150 fpm using a full-width stationary printhead
✓ Water-Based Inks: Eco-friendly pigment inks with no VOCs or ventilation requirements
✓ Ideal for Short Runs: Perfect for 1–10,000 label jobs with zero setup waste
✓ Photo Quality: 1600 x 1600 dpi resolution rivals offset and flexographic quality
✓ ArrowJet Integration: ArrowJet Aqua 330R combines Memjet speed with intuitive workflow software
Memjet technology continues to transform the digital label printing industry with high-speed, high-quality color output. Arrow Systems stands as a leading expert across Duraflex, DuraCore, and VersaPass platforms.
From new system consultation to upgrades, preventive maintenance, and emergency repairs, our engineering team ensures your printing operations run at peak performance.
Contact Arrow Systems today to maximize your Memjet investment.
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