As a business owner, you will undoubtedly be on a mission to find the most efficient and cost effective solutions to your problems. Automatic labelling machines can help to simplify your marketing strategy by creating a systemised brand identity for your products and packaging.
Semi-Automatic Vs Automatic
Both automatic and semi-automatic labelling machines automate the label application process. The main difference between the machines is the manner in which they are loaded and activated.
Semi-Automatic
Semi-automatic labelling systems are designed to apply labels directly to lined-up product containers or packaging, one label at a time. The items must be adequately spaced on the conveyor system before they can be automatically labelled. Once the operator has arranged the machine label application and products, the application of labels is fully automated.
The electronically controlled machine can be hand-loaded for small batch quantities and numbers of product, or fully integrated into an existing production line. Fast labelling is activated by a connected machine, or by manual switch triggering.
The semi-automatic label applicators are typically constrained to a single type of container – rectangular, round or oval. By alternating front and back labels on the spool, it’s also possible to apply multiple labels with heat shrink labels for bottles or heat shrink sleeve labels for bottles. Although this machine can be set up to label specific containers, such as wine bottles and standard shipping boxes, the flexibility and speed of your production line may be somewhat compromised.
Automatic
Fully automatic labelling is conducted entirely in the system. Automatic labelling machines position the product container before the label is applied. Some automatic labellers can also apply several labels while repositioning the container. It’s possible to configure automatic machines to accommodate a range of products in a variety of container sizes and shapes. The settings can be saved and retrieved, once the machine has been calibrated for a specific type of label and container.
If your production line requires a higher speed, the automatic labelling system is the safest bet. While it can certainly reach the speed of 1800 labels per hour, the application rate will vary depending on the type and size of the containers and labels. Top of the range, high-performance industrial models can reach impressive speeds that are in excess of 6000 labels per hour.
Practical & Cost Considerations
The types of labels and packaging that you use for your products, and the speed of your production line, are additional key factors to consider when exploring which type of labelling system is right for your business needs and requirements.
Some entry-level partially automated machines are simply manual systems that feature an additional motor. Stand-alone semi-automatic machines can be customised with options and are therefore available in a higher price bracket. You will still need to factor in the cost of a manual worker to operate the machine. Overall, this machine can ensure increased production at a low input cost.
Fully automated labelling machines need little in the way of human intervention. Although the up-front cost will be a higher investment, you can potentially recoup savings over time.
