Reviewed: 6 September 2026

Quick answer: A handheld inkjet printer may help apply batch numbers, dates, internal references or large identification marks to suitable drums and containers that are difficult to move. Before use, the customer must assess the container surface, required markings, ink compatibility, work area and safety conditions.

Direct inkjet coding should not automatically be treated as a replacement for required product labels, hazard communication, transport markings or regulatory information.

1. Define what the printed code is for

Possible uses include a batch or lot number, filling date, product grade, internal stock reference, destination, barcode or QR code. Confirm whether the mark is supplementary operational information or part of a required label system.

If information is required by a customer, contract, safety procedure or authority, the responsible personnel must approve the content, size, placement and durability. PTS does not approve chemical labels or regulatory markings.

2. Complete a work-area safety assessment first

Do not operate a handheld printer in a potentially flammable, explosive or otherwise hazardous atmosphere unless the exact equipment and work method have been assessed and approved by the customer’s responsible HSE personnel for that location.

Do not assume a standard BENTSAI handheld printer is intrinsically safe or certified for hazardous areas unless explicit current documentation states so. Follow the site rules, chemical SDS, ink SDS and applicable risk-control procedures. Do not print on a leaking, open or unsafe container.

3. Inspect the drum surface

Painted steel, bare metal, HDPE plastic, coated fibre drums and other containers can produce different results. Oil, chemical residue, condensation, dust, curvature, texture and coating may affect drying and adhesion.

Use a clean production sample in its normal condition. Ink selection must be evaluated on the actual surface; no cartridge should be assumed to provide permanent, waterproof or chemical-resistant marking on every drum.

4. Select a practical print size

For a stated maximum print height of 25.4 mm, the BENTSAI BT-HH6210BL may suit medium-size text or codes. For larger marking, the BENTSAI B85 has a stated maximum print height of up to 92 mm.

The larger model is not automatically better. Consider available space, curvature, operator control, number of lines, code width and viewing distance.

5. Plan the handheld movement

Large curved containers may require a stable starting point, consistent movement and an appropriate roller or positioning aid. Test several prints around the expected area. If the container cannot be held safely or the operator cannot maintain a consistent path, another fixture or coding method may be required.

6. Sample-test checklist

1. Confirm the product information and approved print file.
2. Identify the container material, coating and previous contents.
3. Confirm that the test area is safe and authorised for printing.
4. Select a potentially suitable ink using available product information.
5. Print multiple samples using the intended operator method.
6. Check readability, alignment, drying and rub resistance.
7. Test barcode or QR scanning if required.
8. Evaluate expected storage, stacking, weather and handling exposure.
9. Obtain internal HSE, quality and operational approval before use.

A successful test applies only to the tested container, ink and conditions. It does not guarantee reliable marking on every drum or throughout every transport route.

7. Traceability requires more than a printed code

A code can help staff retrieve records, but it does not by itself provide complete traceability. The printed data must be accurate and connected to a maintained inventory, production or documentation system.

Frequently asked questions

Can a BENTSAI printer be used in a hazardous area?
Do not assume so. The customer must assess the exact equipment, atmosphere and work method and obtain the necessary site approval.

Can direct printing replace the drum label?
Not automatically. Required product, hazard or transport labels may still be necessary.

Will the code resist oil, water or chemicals?
Resistance depends on the ink, surface, exposure and curing conditions. Test the actual requirement.

What should I send PTS?
Provide an empty safe sample or material panel, approved print content, required size, surface condition, handling environment and any site restrictions.

Explore related solutions

See our Manufacturing Parts & Components Coding Solutions and Warehouse & Logistics Coding Solutions.

PTS Technology Sdn Bhd is the exclusive authorised distributor for BENTSAI handheld inkjet printers in Malaysia. The exclusive scope refers specifically to handheld printers.

For an application review, visit www.ptstsb.com or contact PTS on WhatsApp.

This article provides general application information only. It is not chemical-safety, dangerous-goods, transport, legal or regulatory advice. Customers must complete their own site assessment and approvals.