Types of label applicator plastic bottles
A plastic bottle label applicator is used to label plastic bottles. These label applicator plastic bottles come in different types based on the application process.
- Hand applicator: A hand applicator is a handheld device that is manually operated to apply labels to products. It is used to hold the label and apply it to the product by hand. Usually, these labels are self-adhesive that can stick to products without requiring any additional effort or assistance. Due to this feature, hand applicators are used to apply labels to various products quickly and easily. This tool is popular in smaller-scale operations where products need to be labeled quickly and easily.
- Wrap Around Applicator: This type of label applicator labels a product by wrapping the label around it. Usually, the label is fed from a label roll, which is then aligned, wrapped, and applied to the product by an applicator. The label is secured in place by either a peel and stick or self-adhesive label. Wrap-around labeler applicators are popular as they are mostly used to create a professional look and provide additional information to consumers. They are commonly found on beverage bottles, jars, and containers. The advantage of this type of applicator is that it provides a consistent labeling application and is more efficient than manual labeling.
- Top & Side Label Applicators: With top and side label applicators, labels are applied to the top or side of a product. These types of label applicators can be used on products with flat surfaces. They can also be used on irregular-shaped products. Top and side label applicators are commonly used to label products such as boxes, containers, and tickets. The labels used with these types of applicators can be peel-off labels, pre-printed labels, or direct print labels.
- Rount-Orient Label Applicator: This applicator is used to apply labels to round objects in an oriented fashion. It usually comes with a label feeder system, label placers, and product detection systems. These components work together to feed the label, place it on the product, and detect the product respectively. This means that the label will be applied to the object precisely after being fed. The label will also be placed precisely after the object has been detected. The round-orient label applicator is commonly used in high-speed production lines where labels need to be applied quickly and accurately to round objects like bottles and cans.
Specifications and Maintenance of Label Applicator Plastic Bottles
Applying labels precisely is one of the main tasks for the label applicator machine. Bottles of various shapes will have their labels put on at an accurate angle and position. Speed is not sacrificed, and the labels will be put on evenly without any crumpling or folding. Staff can apply as many as 750-1000 labels an hour if they use the device, which is a highly efficient use of time.
Plastic labels can be applied to bottles that have either a straight or tapered shape. The applicator will be able to handle plastic bottles that are between 5 ounces and 64 ounces in size. If the bottle is wider or more profound than this, then it will not be able to use the labeling tool effectively. The label that is applied can be between 2 to 5 inches wide and 3 to 8 inches long, and it should ideally overlap itself when put on the bottle.
The label applicator machine for plastic bottles can be manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic in operation. Manual operation is where the person manually places the label on the container, while in semi-automatic and fully automatic, the labels are fed automatically to the bottle. In a fully automatic configuration, workers can apply labels at the rate of 25 bottles per minute. In reality, the speed may be less, but at least that number of bottles can be labeled without any further effort.
Generally, the applicator machine's dimensions will be between 4 to 6 feet in length and 3 to 4 feet in width. The precise dimensions will depend upon the specific product and how it is constructed. The weight can vary between 80 and 110 kg. It will have a roller and a feeding table with a labeling station to carry out these functions.
Maintenance
- Frequent cleaning: It needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent label paper residue and other debris from interfering with its operation. Labeling residue will pile up on the label applicator roller, label jam sensor, and the conveyor belt, causing unnecessary machine downtime.
- Referring to the manual: The user manual contains information on the maximum number of labels the machine may use. It is crucial to use labels and label paper that fall within these specifications to prevent damaging the label applicator machine.
- Wipe roller tracks: Machine tracks should be wiped periodically with a dry towel to remove the marking tape's adhesive residue.
- Using the right label: It is important to use the correct label for any labeling device. The right self-adhesive label for a bottle should be oil- and waterproof and made of material that is both tear-resistant and transparent.
Industry scenarios for using the label applicator plastic bottle
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Cosmetic product packaging:
A label applicator bottle is being used in the cosmetics industry to efficiently and precisely label various cosmetic containers such as foundations, serums, and hair products. These applicators ensure that labels are applied correctly, enhancing branding and product information for customers.
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Food and beverage packaging:
Label applicator bottles are being used in the food and beverage industry to accurately and efficiently apply labels to various bottles and containers. Whether for sauces, beverages, or condiments, these applicators ensure proper labeling application, ensuring product identification and compliance with regulations.
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Pharmaceutical bottle labeling:
In the pharmaceutical industry, a label applicator bottle is used to apply labels to medicine or supplement bottles. These applicators ensure accurate labeling application, including dosage instructions, ingredients, and safety information, promoting proper medication usage and patient safety.
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Industrial product bottle labeling:
Label applicator bottles are being used in the industrial sector to label various bottles and containers for chemicals, cleaning products, or manufacturing supplies. These applicators enable precise labeling application, ensuring product identification, safety information, and compliance with industry standards.
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Startup beverage company:
A startup beverage company is using a label applicator bottle to efficiently and professionally label its newly developed line of flavored sparkling waters. With a small budget but a desire to make an impression, the company needs a cost-effective solution that allows for quick labeling of multiple flavors. The applicator helps them apply labels accurately and consistently, giving their bottles a polished look that attracts customers. This helps the startup stand out in a competitive market and build brand recognition from the beginning.
How to Choose Label Applicator Plastic Bottles
When selecting the plastic bottle label applicator machine, several key factors need to be considered to ensure that the bottle labeler chosen meets the requirements.
- Production rate: It's important to think about the maximum production speed the label applicator machine should have. The production speed is determined by the size of the bottles, the labeling accuracy required, and the number of operators in the production line. A label applicator with a higher production speed will help to meet the labeling demands.
- Labeling accuracy: The labeling precision of the label applicator is also something to consider. Packaging that requires precise label placement, such as those with complex branding, graphics, and expensive products, may need a high-accuracy applicator. High-accuracy labeling helps ensure that the label is applied correctly and consistently.
- Product complexity: The type of product being labeled will also influence the choice of label applicator. For example, products with irregular shapes, such as contoured bottles or products with multiple labels, may require a special-purpose applicator. Also, products that are high volume will need a label applicator at a faster production speed to meet the demands.
- Packaging line integration: For some businesses, the label applicator machine will need to fit in with existing production line equipment. In this case, the applicator selected will need to integrate well with other production equipment. When determining if a label applicator can be seamlessly integrated, it is essential to check the dimensions, labeling method, and communication protocols of the device.
- Budget constraints: When choosing the right label applicator, it is important to consider the budget needed. This will include the initial purchase cost and any maintenance, operating, and labeling material costs over the device's life span. It is worth investing in a high-quality, durable label applicator that will provide long-term savings through lower maintenance costs.
Q&A
Q: What types of plastic bottles does a label applicator for plastic bottles work with?
A: Label applicators for plastic bottles can work with various shapes and sizes of plastic bottles. Nonetheless, the fit is determined by parameters such as size, shape, and label surface. Applicators designed for use on contoured bottles, for example, will adequately work on contoured bottles but not on flat surface bottles.
Q: Can a label applicator for plastic bottles handle different label shapes and sizes?
A: In most cases, label applicators for plastic bottles are designed to handle different label shapes and sizes. Nonetheless, this mostly applies to models that are adjustable. Fixed-size applicators may only handle specific label shapes and sizes.
Q: Is it possible to use a label applicator on bottles with curves or irregular shapes?
A: Yes, some label applicators can apply labels on plastic bottles with curves or irregular shapes. Typically, these machines have adjustable fixtures, contoured label templates, and different-speed motors to customize the labels.
Q: Can a label applicator for plastic bottles be upgraded or modified for future needs?
A: Some label applicators for plastic bottles can be modified or upgraded to meet future needs. This is possible in machines that come with additional features or any form of expansion slots.
Q: How accurate is a plastic label applicator?
A: Plastic label applicators are generally highly precise, with application accuracy within a few millimeters. Nonetheless, this depends on various factors, including the model, setup, and adjustment.
