A label applicator machine is a practical device used in production and packaging lines to attach printed labels to packaged products. This machine, which completes the packaging process, is used to affix labels containing information such as production and expiration dates, prices, ingredients, and more onto products. Since labels come in various types and products are packaged in different shapes and materials, label applicator machines are available in a variety of models on the market. In this article, we will explore how the label applicator machine works and its different types.
Types of Labeling Machines
Label applicator machines are divided into various types based on their capacity and the type of label. Below, we will briefly mention each of the types of label applicator machines. For more information, you can refer to the article “What is a label applicator machine?”
- OPP label applicator: Suitable for labeling cylindrical containers made of PET, plastic, metal cans, and glass containers.
- Top self-adhesive label applicator: Suitable for applying labels on flat containers with square or rectangular shapes.
- Round self-adhesive label applicator: Suitable for various round containers, such as bottles.
- Double-sided flat self-adhesive label applicator: Suitable for simultaneously applying labels to both sides (top and bottom or front and back) of round and flat products.
- Dual-purpose self-adhesive label applicator: Used for applying various types of labels on flat and round containers, but not simultaneously.
The above-mentioned machines are the most commonly used for applying labels on products. You can purchase a label applicator machine through the Radan Machine website. However, labels themselves are also divided into various types, and depending on the type of label, the operation of the label applicator machine should be considered to select the appropriate machine. Three of the most commonly used types of labels are:
- OPP label: Labels that do not adhere to the container (such as labels on soda and mineral water bottles).
- Self-adhesive label: Labels that have adhesive on the back to stick to the container.
- Round label: Labels that are applied around round containers, such as cream cans.
How the OPP label applicator works
The OPP or Hot Melt label applicator machine is the best machine for completing packaging and applying labels to soda bottles and other square or round bottles. The Hot Melt system sprays adhesive particles onto the bottles to bond the edges of the labels before they are applied to the bottles.
The main advantage of these machines is their low label cost and continuous production capacity.
How the top self-adhesive label applicator works
The operation of the top self-adhesive label applicator machine is such that the machine applies the labels to the top surface of the product. In these systems, the labeling heads are positioned above the product. The roller rotates and applies the labels as the product passes under the labeling heads. The movement of the product, conveyor belt, and the preparation and movement of the label are all synchronized in advance.
These machines are suitable for applying labels on tubs, foldable containers, boxes, cartons, and cases.
How the round self-adhesive label applicator works
The round self-adhesive label applicator machine applies labels to the side surfaces of cylindrical containers such as cans, bottles, and cartridges. These machines are mainly used to make full use of the round surface of the containers. The label wraps completely or partially around the side surface of the container as the product rotates and passes through the labeling head.
These machines can apply both round and flat labels on containers because flat labels also become round after being applied around the containers. Additionally, round self-adhesive label applicators can have two different mechanisms: one that holds the container and applies the label on it, or one that applies the label around the container without holding it.
How the double-sided flat self-adhesive label applicator works
The operation of the double-sided flat self-adhesive label applicator machine is such that it simultaneously applies seamless labels to both sides of the product. In these systems, two labeling heads are positioned facing each other. As the conveyor belt moves the product to these heads, the labels are applied simultaneously to the front and back of the product. The movement of the product and the preparation of the label are precisely timed to ensure accurate label placement.
These machines are suitable for containers that have two flat and smooth sides.
How the dual-purpose self-adhesive label applicator works
The dual-purpose self-adhesive label applicator machine is one of the most commonly used industrial machines, suitable for both containers with flat surfaces and round containers. The operation of the dual-purpose label applicator machine is such that it can apply the label around the body of the container and on its top surface, which is why it is considered dual-purpose. However, this is not done simultaneously, but the machine is adjustable.
The dual-purpose label applicator is suitable for various round, flat, and oval bottles and containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of label applicator machines?
Top self-adhesive label applicator, OPP label applicator, round self-adhesive label applicator, double-sided flat self-adhesive label applicator, and dual-purpose self-adhesive label applicator.
Does the round self-adhesive label applicator have the ability to apply flat labels?
This machine is capable of applying both flat and round labels on containers because flat labels also take the shape of the container once applied to round containers.
What surfaces can be labeled using the label applicator machine?
Flat, smooth, round, and square surfaces made of plastic, PET, aluminum, and other materials can be labeled using these machines.
Final Words
In this article, we discussed how the label applicator machine works and its different types. The label applicator refers to equipment involved in printing and affixing labels to products and their packaging. Since labels are crucial for product identification, presentation, and tracking, the label applicator is considered one of the most important components that must be present in every factory and production facility.