Choosing the Right Automatic Label Applicator
If you have a production line that is bottlenecking, an automatic label applicator can help you increase efficiency and make more products in less time. However, choosing the right machine requires careful consideration of its uptime advantages.
The rigidity or flexibility of your label stock plays a role as well. A label that is too flexible, regardless of thickness, may cause wrinkling or not separate from the backing when rolled over the peel edge.
Speed
Labels need to be applied quickly in order to keep up with the production line. This is where an automatic label applicator really shines. They are usually several times faster than a manual station, and at least twice as fast as a semi-automatic labeler. This makes them the perfect choice for businesses that want to increase productivity without sacrificing quality or labor costs.
If you’re looking for a high-speed labeling system that can work as a standalone machine, consider the OMICRON T1000 table-top automatic labeler. This system can be used to label round bottles with precision and accuracy, resulting in professional-looking products. It automatic label applicator also features a hot-stamp printer to add barcodes or other information to your labels before they are applied.
Other automatic label applicators are designed for more complex applications, including front of pack, top of pack and corner wrap labels. The Alpha HSM labeling system, for example, offers a wide range of configurations and can apply up to 6,000 linear inches per minute. This machine is ideal for larger businesses, including large distributors, 3pls and omnichannel DCs.
There are several different types of automatic label applicators on the market, and it’s important to find one that matches up with your specific operational requirements. For example, if you need to label bottles with an expiration date or other information, it’s essential to choose a label applicator that can print and apply these labels accurately and quickly.
Precision
Labelling products by hand is fine when the volume of orders is small, but as volumes increase and you’re dealing with complex or irregular containers, it becomes impractical. Automated labelling methods offer greater speed, precision, consistency and reliability, eliminating errors and saving time and resources.
There are several labeling machines on the market that can meet your needs, including semi-automatic label applicators and full inline systems. The best labeling machine for your business depends on the size and shape of your containers, how you want them to be labeled, and your production requirements.
An automatic label applicator is a labeling machine that automatically places pre-printed labels onto a container. It can be used for a variety of containers, from bottles and tubes to corrugated boxes and pallets. Some can also reposition the container to fit a label in a specific position.
The labeling process involves the use of a paper or plastic liner that holds the adhesive-backed label face in place until it’s ready to be applied. Some labels are printed with a peel edge that is designed to release the liner when the product is finished and ready for shipping.
Choosing a labeling system that supports the materials and sizes of your products is essential for accurate, reliable results. It’s also important to consider your production and inventory needs when deciding on an automated labeling system.
Ease of operation
An automatic label applicator can streamline your packaging process, allowing you to ship products out faster and increase your customer base. It’s a game-changing technology that can revolutionize your branding and improve efficiency while eliminating wasted labels and labor.
When choosing an automatic label applicator, look for one that can accommodate a variety of product and label sizes. Make sure it can handle your desired roll and core size, as this will directly impact operational efficiency. Also, look for an applicator that can store calibration settings, ensuring you can switch between different label types and containers with minimal downtime.
Fully automated print and apply systems such as Diagraph’s E-Series use industrial print engines from Sato and Zebra—these devices are designed for 24/7 operation and require little maintenance aside from occasional calibration and spool changes. These machines typically cost tens of thousands of dollars, but they will pay for themselves in just a few years through increased productivity and reduced labor costs.
Maintenance
When you invest in a labeling machine, you want it to work efficiently and accurately. If it doesn’t, you’ll be paying for costly downtime and a loss of productivity. This can hurt your business’s reputation and sales, especially if your products are mislabeled. Fortunately, many of these problems can be avoided by following simple maintenance procedures.
For example, many feed errors are caused by labels that aren’t aligned correctly. This can be easy to fix if you check your label sensors daily before the machine is used and regularly when you switch labels. This also prevents the need for major fixes down the line that could halt production.
Another common issue is skewing of the label. While skewing can be caused by a number of issues, most are automatic label applicator manufacturers due to the label design. Plastic containers are typically made at a 15-degree angle to help them release from their molds. This slight tilt can cause flat labels to twist during application, resulting in a skewed label.
Although industrial labeling machines are designed to be durable, they need occasional maintenance to perform at their best. The print engines are the most common cause of commercial label system repairs. They are built to withstand constant use, but they require routine cleaning and head replacement. Fortunately, most label applicators use high-quality printers that are available with replacement parts. These replacements can be purchased quickly and easily to keep your labeler running smoothly.
