Label applicators

Types of label applicators

Label the applicator is an apparatus used to apply labels in a product-making set up or packaging process. Various types of label applicators are used in different industries to ease the process and ensure uniformity. The following list discusses some commonly used industrial label applicators.

• Manual

  It is a label applicator that requires manual input to place the label on a product. It involves the operator-centered aligning and applying the label on the product. While this may not be the case in most label applicators, some systems work with the manual. Others have the manual be an option to choose as a preferred application method. It is common in small-scale operations where high precision is not crucial or when dealing with smaller products.

• Print and Apply Solutions

  They are label applicators integrated with printing capabilities. They print labels on-demand and apply them to products. Customization of labels can be done with the help of this combination, and it also offers flexibility in the label design. As a result, businesses will quickly respond to changes in labeling requirements or product information. It is a common feature in warehouse and distribution centers where real-time labeling is important.

• Wrap-around Applicators

  They are types of label Applicator machines that apply labels to products in a wrapping manner around the applicated product. Usually, the labels are wrapped around cylindrical or irregularly shaped products. The applicators utilize a combination of sensors, guides, and adhesives to achieve accurate and consistent labeling results.

• Top

  Top label applicator devices apply labels from above onto products or packages. The label is usually applied to the top or front of the product for easy viewing and identification. Most of them are used on flat surfaces, making them ideal for use on cartons, boxes, and products with labels on their front and top surfaces. Some top-labeling devices can be used to make multi-label applications efficiently.

  They are ideal for businesses that deal with products that have require one or easy label identification. The top-labeling applicator allows quick label application for products that don't require multiple labeling layers. They are common in the food and beverage industry but can also be found in retail, manufacturing, and other sectors.

• Floor Label Applicators

  They are label applicators designed to apply labels to the floor. They are built to handle high volumes of labels and often include features like label roll holder capacity, label speed, and sensor-guided labeling. Most of them are used during safety labeling, inventory labeling, and navigation labeling among many other uses. They are common in high-traffic areas such as warehouses, factories, retail spaces, and institutional facilities.

  Generally, floor labels help convey information, instructions, or directions directly onto the floor surface. Therefore, the installation of the label is crucial for safety, organization, or communication purposes.

• Unicorn Label Applicator

  It is a type of label applicator commonly used for applying labels to rounded products like bottles and jars. This applicator offers an easy and cost-effective way of applying pre-printed labels to products with a cylindrical shape and a contoured shape. It is called a unicorn because it resembles a mythical creature with a horn. Most models are designed with a label pull motor that helps control product labeling.

Specifications and maintenance of label applicators

Different label applicator machines have unique specifications. Here are some key specifications and their descriptions.

• Applicable labels

  Businesses will find various label applicators that work with different labels, such as paper labels, sticky notes, and labels made from other materials. Some precise devices can handle labels with varied forms, sizes, and surfaces. Others are for a specific type of label. Using the correct label with the right applicator saves time, money, and effort.

• Label width

  The labels' sizes and how wide they are can vary. Some labels are a bit narrower, while others are wider. Choosing an applicator with a label width that matches the product is crucial. If the label is too big or small, it won't work well or may break down quickly.

• Speed

  The speed of label applicators is different. Some work fast and can put on 120 pieces per minute, while others might not be as quick. For businesses that use a lot of labels daily, picking a speedy machine that can keep up is essential. Slower machines are fine for those who don't need to use many labels each day.

• Power

  Some labelers need batteries, while others depend on electricity from outlets. Many machines use AC power. They are more potent and can handle more work, making them good for regular use. Battery-powered machines are portable and better for small jobs or when not in one place. AC-powered machines are the best choice for heavy daily use because of their strength.

Proper maintenance of labeling machines is crucial to keep the equipment in great shape for many years. Regular maintenance will ensure the devices always function at optimal levels and produce precise labels.

• Daily cleaning is the most important part of preserving a labeling machine. After using the device each day, operators need to wipe it down. Clean all parts with a moist cloth to remove any label residue. This stops the buildup of gunk over time that could harm the equipment.
• It's also a good idea to regularly deep clean the machine. Doing a more thorough cleaning every week or month will remove dirt and dust that regular wipes miss. While it's not necessary to clean deeply all the time, occasional thorough cleaning helps keep the labeler running smoothly.

Usage scenarios for label applicators

Label applicators are used in multiple industries that require labeling as part of the production process. They are used in warehouse operations to apply product labels swiftly to cartons and packages. In this scenario, a label applicator helps enhance inventory management, streamline the order-picking process, and reduce labeling errors.

In food production industries, automated labeling machines are used to apply labels to food packages, containers, and bottles. In this scenario, the machine enhances product identification, compliance with food labeling regulations, and brand recognition.

Pharmaceuticals mark bottles, containers, and boxes with labels indicating dosage, instructions, and other relevant information using label applicators. Besides, in the retail sector, label applicators are used to apply price tags, barcodes, and product labels to retail items, shelves, and racks in supermarkets and grocery stores. The applicators help streamline the checkout process and improve inventory management.

Label applicators are used in manufacturing to apply labels to products such as bottles, boxes, and containers. Depending on the product's needs, they apply branded labels, barcodes, and regulatory labels quickly and accurately. Using label applicators in the manufacturing sector ensures product identification, improves traceability, and helps streamline the labeling process.

Label applicators are also used by businesses in the shipping and logistics industry to apply shipping labels, tracking labels, and addresses to boxes, envelopes, and shipping containers. The machine improves efficiency in warehouses, reduces manual labeling, and speeds up the shipping process.

How to choose label applicators

Industrial Label Applicators are purchased based on several key factors that affect their application in diverse industries.

• The flow of work:

  Production flow must be considered when selecting Labeling Machines. Flow should match the machine's speed and efficiency. Work may consume energy, effort, and resources, and Labels help track, manage, and optimize it. Picking labels that reflect the entire work process can help streamline operations.

• Industries need:

  Industries need specific labels to meet distinct demands. Various sectors, like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, or retail, have unique requirements. For example, the healthcare industry necessitates labels for medical records and prescriptions, while the retail sector needs them for product pricing and shelf labeling. Selecting labels that cater to specific industry needs enables efficient labeling solutions tailored to particular sector demands.

• The convergence of products:

  A vast array of products requires distinct labels to provide essential information, branding, and identification. From consumer goods to industrial equipment, each product has unique labeling needs in terms of design, content, and placement. These include food and beverages, electronics, chemicals, apparel, and automotive parts. Applying the right label ensures compliance, enhances visibility, and improves customer experience through easy identification and understanding of the products.

Q & A

Q1: Are label applicators only used for product labeling?

A1: No, label applicators can be used for various labeling needs, such as applying labels on bottles and jars for products, applying labels on boxes and packages for products, and applying labels for informational, branding, and marketing purposes.

Q2: Can label applicators handle labels of different shapes and sizes?

A2: Yes, most label applicators can be adjusted to handle labels of different shapes and sizes. However, it is essential to check the machine's specifications to ensure it can handle specific label shapes and sizes.

Q3: Are label applicators difficult to operate?

A3: Most label applicators are designed for easy operation. However, the application methods may vary depending on the type of machine. Please refer to the manufacturer's instruction manual for the proper operating method.

Q4: What maintenance do label applicators require?

A4: The maintenance requirement may vary depending on the machine model. However, it usually requires regular cleaning and occasional lubrication. Please refer to the user's manual and guidance of the professionals for the proper maintenance process.