Shrink sleeve label machine

Types of shrink sleeve label machines

A shrink sleeve label machine can be categorized into several types based on different features and functions. Here are the most common ones:

• By the label-consolidating method:

  A shrink sleeve label machine can be divided into collating area, sleeve labeling area, shrink tunnel, and shrink sleeve labeling machine without a shrink tunnel. The labeling machine with a collating area mainly focuses on efficiently consolidating multiple items or products into a single, cohesive unit using shrink sleeves as labels. Products can be up to 150mm without lids and 100mm with lids. A sleeve labeling machine typically combines shrink sleeves with labels to apply shrinkable labels to products or containers, often before the containers are shrunk. The labeling machine for not taking tunnels can eliminate the need for a shrink tunnel by using alternative methods to shrink labels onto products, such as heat wrapping or jetting technologies. Products can be up to 300mm with lids and 250mm without lids.

• By Automation:

  An automated shrink sleeve labeling machine streamlines the labeling process by automatically applying shrink sleeves to products without manual intervention. Manual shrink sleeve labeling machines require manual placement of products and sleeves, leading to increased productivity compared to manual labeling.

• By feeding system:

  Continuous shrink sleeve labeling machines provide a consistent and uninterrupted labeling process by utilizing a continuous feeding mechanism. This typically involves the use of conveyor systems or feeding belts that continuously feed products to the labeling station, where shrink sleeves are applied.

• By the shape of the product:

  Standard sleeve labeling machines are designed to handle label application on products of varying shapes and sizes. Unlike specific models that may be limited to certain types of products, standard machines typically include adjustable labeling heads, conveyors, and control systems to accommodate labeling on different shapes and sizes of products.

Ultimately, the choice of a shrink sleeve label machine depends on specific labeling requirements, production volume, and the type of products being labeled.

Specifications & Maintenance

The main types of shrink sleeve labeling machines have specifications based on the factor of supply. They include the bottle range, label, and film material that cover everything about the bottle. Whether using a constricting system of heat tunnels, conventional ovens, or hot air guns, the human interface or control panel is an important aspect of a labeling machine. This is what a person uses to control and adjust the labeling process.

• Bottle Range: The applicable bottle ranges vary in size and dimensions, typically including cylinders, jars, and other shapes.
• Label Range: This specification includes the width and length of the label that can be applied. It also varies according to the type and model of the labeling machine.
• Film Material: The machine's suitability for different film materials includes PVC, PETG, and OPS.
• Speed: The labeling speed indicates how many labels the machine can apply per minute. It usually varies depending on the type and model of the shrink sleeve machine.
• Voltage: The operating voltage of the labeling machine is usually 110V or 220V.
• Power: The power of the labeling machine is usually between 100W and 500W.
• Machine Size: The dimensions of a shrink sleeve machine often differ, depending on the type and model. The dimensions are usually given in length, width, and height.
• Weight: The weight of labeling machines for shrink sleeves is typically between 10kg and 50kg, depending on the type and model.

Some of the specifications below directly inform the maintenance and care aspects of relearning when dealing with machines of this kind. Given the crucial importance of efficiency, care is vital to sustain production lines when labeling bottles.

• Easy to Clean: Shrink sleeve labeling machines are often made with materials and designs that allow for easy cleaning. This helps to quickly and efficiently maintain the labeling accuracy of food products.
• Tool-free Maintenance: Certain machines allow maintenance without any tools. This kind of machine will have a pinch assembly to release and then adjust further, enabling quick adjustments to change label sizes.
• Durability: Bottling plants demand labels that withstand the test of time. Durable machines offer constant performance. The maintenance schedule is crucial, so it helps to ensure that the machine performs at the required level of efficiency.
• Hygienic Design: Hygiene is essential, and all these machines must need to maintain strict hygiene. They should, therefore, be easily cleanable with smooth surfaces. These surfaces must have no recesses or crevices to stop the build-up of any bacteria.

It's absolutely crucial to carry out routine maintenance according to machine instructions. Routine checks and part repairs or replacements will avoid any production line's unscheduled downtime.

Scenarios of shrink sleeve label machines

Shrink sleeve label machines apply packaging that conforms to any shape of an item, including labels for bottles, cups, cans, jars, boxes, containers, and products with irregular shapes.

The labels include barcodes, nutritional facts, ingredients, instructions, branding, and product information. Enforcement agencies include the FDA, USDA, and other organizations that require labels with transparency about what is in the product, how to use it, and when it expires.

Industrial machines with conveyor belts can be used to apply labels to iced beverage labels, water bottles, wine, beer, liquor bottles, fruit drinks, and soda. The preform labels are applied to the bottle before being sent to the heat tunnel, where they are shrunk to fit better. Bottling companies can run several thousand labels per hour.

Healthcare and pharmaceutical companies can use these machines to apply labels to medicine bottles, vials, and injectors, including RX and OTC medications, as well as dosage instructions and pharmaceutical information. Research and laboratory organizations also use them to label vials and test tubes.

Food production companies can use a shrink sleeve label machine to apply labels to cans and jars in vegetables, fruits, pickles, sauces, and condiments, including information about the contents, when it will expire, and refrigeration instructions after opening.

Cosmetic companies can use shrink sleeve label machines to apply labels to their products for shampoo bottles, conditioner, body wash, lotion, sanitizer, and all other types of products. Identifier agencies may include the EPA when using these products. According to some industry experts, shrink sleeve labeling can help cosmetics stand out on crowded store shelves, resulting in more significant sales and profits.

Industrial companies that manufacture and sell machinery may need a shrink sleeve machine to apply labels to their products for branding, product information, and barcode identification. Variable data printing is necessary, with information like serial numbers, QR codes, and barcodes changing for each product. A typical example is industrial warranty labels, which may have a different number or code for each item.

How to Choose a shrink sleeve label machine

Selecting a shrink sleeve labeling machine for a particular application can be challenging because many factors need to be considered, ranging from machine specifications to product features.

• Labeling requirements analysis: Identify the specific labeling requirements, including the labeling substance, container form, label size, and quantity.
• Machine type matching: Select a suitable type of labeling machine based on the labeling requirements, the automation level required, and the estimated production capacity.
• Fee: Consider budget constraints and cost performance. Compare prices and features of different brands and models to make an economical choice that meets the requirements.
• Space considerations: Take the available space into account, including the machine's size and any necessary ancillary equipment or workstations. Ensure that the chosen machine can be integrated into the existing production line.
• Ease of use: Consider the machine's operating system and user interface. Choose a model with an easy-to-use operating system and intuitive controls to facilitate staff training and daily operation.
• Maintenance and technical support: Investigate the maintenance and technical support services provided by the machine manufacturer. Consider the availability of spare parts and the quality of support to ensure timely resolution of any issues that may arise during use.

Shrink sleeve label machine Q&A

Q1: Which type of industries can the shrink sleeve label machine cater to?

A1: The machine is versatile and can be used in various industries. It is commonly found in the food and beverages sector, pharmaceutical industry, cosmetics and personal care, household products, and the business marketing industry.

Q2: Can the shrink sleeve label machine work with all packaging materials?

A2: Not really. The shrink sleeve label machine works best with materials that can shrink when heated. Common shrink materials include PVC shrink film, PETG, and OPS.

Q3: Are the labels printed before or after they are shrunk onto the product?

A3: Labels are typically printed before they are applied to the product and shrunk.

Q4: Can users unsleeve labels from a product without damaging it?

A4: In most cases, products with sleeve labels can be unmarked without damage. However, caution should be taken when trying to unwrap an item with a sleeve label, as the material often has a tight fit.