Label applicators have significantly evolved since their development in the 1970s. While early models were manual and susceptible to errors, today’s machines are highly automated and precise robots. Some models can print and apply labels at 3000 inches per minute.
Label applicators are essential tools for small businesses and large manufacturers, offering reliable labelling solutions. The global label applicators industry is $2,816.6 million and is projected to grow at 4.3% annually.
This growth is driven by economic expansion, increasing demand for packaged goods, a wider range of label applicator models at lower price points, and the need for regulatory compliance.
This article explores the various types of label applicators, aiming to help you make informed decisions to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve product presentation.
Label applicators come in various types to suit the size and shape of primary containers, packaging materials, and operational needs. Factors like adhesive types, automation levels, and conveyor or material flow direction influence their design.
This article will classify label applicators based on the following criteria.
Label applicators can be sorted into three main types – manual, semi-automatic, and automatic – based on their level of automation. Automation dictates the required human involvement and the speed at which labels are applied.
Manual label applicators are the most basic type, operated entirely by hand.
These machines are used in small businesses with manageable product volumes, where labelling speed is less critical, and equipment price is more important.
They are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and have a low learning curve. Manual label applicators are best suited for labelling bottles, boxes, containers, and jars.
The throughput of a manual labelling machine is between 5 to 20 items a minute.
Semi-automatic label applicators offer a step up from manual ones.
In these machines, an operator manually loads the product, and then, with a switch or foot pedal, the label is automatically applied. Once labelled, the operator removes the product from the machine.
This solution balances speed and control, making it ideal for expanding medium-scale businesses that need a more efficient labelling system without the higher costs of fully automated machines.
The throughput of a semi-automatic labelling machine is between 100 to 300 items a minute.
Automatic label applicators offer high efficiency and productivity, automating the labelling process without requiring manual intervention.
Products are fed into the machine via a conveyor belt, and the applicator manages everything from aligning the product to applying the label.
One of the main advantages of automatic label applicators is their ability to handle large volumes quickly and accurately, making them ideal for large-scale businesses.
Some models can be integrated into existing production lines to enhance overall productivity.
Modern automatic label applicators are ubiquitous in industrial production lines and can label anything you throw at them, including food jars, industrial goods, and pharmaceutical containers.
The throughput of an off-the-shelf automatic labelling machine is between 100 to 2000 containers a minute.
Based on the adhesive used, label applicator machines can be divided into four main types: Wet Glue, Pressure Sensitive, Hot Melt Glue, and Shrink Sleeve labelling machines.
Wet glue labelling machines apply paper labels using a liquid adhesive at room temperature. This method is versatile and widely used for labelling round objects across various industries, including food, medicine, and daily chemicals.
While wet glue is effective for many applications, it is less suitable for environments with high moisture levels (like the beverage industry), where synthetic or coated labels might be preferred.
Wet glue labelling creates a solid adhesive bond and is cost-effective for large-scale production.
Pressure-sensitive labelling machines use labels with a pre-applied adhesive that sticks when pressure is applied. These machines can accommodate various container shapes and materials, including plastic, glass, and metal. The pressure-sensitive labelling process does not require heat or solvents.
Pressure-sensitive labelling is used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, and beverages due to its ease of application and clean, professional appearance.
In the cosmetics industry, these labels are often chosen for their ability to conform to the complex shapes of containers like tubes and bottles. In pharmaceuticals, the precision of pressure-sensitive labelling helps ensure accurate placement on small vials and bottles.
The food and beverage industry favours these labels because they are flexible in design and material, allowing for a wide range of branding options.
The technology behind pressure-sensitive labelling also includes various application methods, such as wipe-on, air-blow, and tamp-blow.
The air-blow method applies labels to fragile or irregularly shaped products (like an ampul) without direct contact, reducing the risk of damage.
The tamp-blow label application method uses a tamp pad to position the label onto the primary container. The label is then blown onto the product with compressed air.
Hot melt glue labelling machines use adhesives that are solid at room temperature but melt when heated. These adhesives have a quick-setting, durable bond that withstands moisture and temperature variations.
Hot melt adhesives such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and metallocene are favoured in the food and beverage industry because they comply with safety standards, such as FDA standards for direct and indirect food contact.
EVA adhesives have fast set times and strong adhesion to various substrates, while metallocene adhesives stay stable under varying temperature conditions.
Shrink sleeve labelling machines apply a heat-shrinkable plastic sleeve to containers, conforming perfectly to their shape and providing full-body label coverage.
This labelling technique is popular in industries like beverages, FMCG (Consumer Packaged Goods), and pharmaceuticals due to its ability to offer 360-degree branding.
Shrink sleeves are made from materials like PVC, PETG, and OPS, which uniformly shrink when heated.
These labels also serve a dual purpose by providing tamper-evident seals, adding an extra layer of security.
Shrink sleeves resist moisture, abrasion, and environmental factors, helping the product maintain its appearance throughout its shelf life.
This section will explore different systems designed for specific label positions, including top and bottom, front and back, side, corner, wrap-around, and vial labelling systems.
Top and bottom label applicators apply labels to products’ top and bottom. These systems use two labelling heads above and below a conveyor belt that apply labels simultaneously.
They are used for products requiring information on both surfaces, such as those in the food and beverage, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.
Front and back label applicators apply labels to a product’s front and back using two labelling heads positioned opposite each other.
As the product moves along the conveyor, these heads apply labels to both sides. This system is suitable for both bottles and containers needing information.
Side labelling machines apply labels to a product’s side panel or arc. Some models can label both sides simultaneously, making them suitable for cylindrical products like cans and jars.
Corner label applicators apply labels that wrap around two adjacent sides of a product or its packaging, such as the top and side or the side and front.
This method is often used for tamper-evident labelling, forming a seal that shows clear signs if tampered with. These machines are used in industries like pharmaceuticals and electronics to ensure product safety and temper proofing.
Wrap-around labelling systems apply labels by rolling them onto the surface of cylindrical containers like bottles and jars. These systems are widely used for round bottles and other containers where brand information needs to be displayed.
Vial labelling systems apply labels to small cylindrical containers. These label applications can be adjusted to fit various vial sizes and shapes and can integrate into production lines.
Many include features like tamper-evident seals and vision inspection technology, ensuring accurate labelling that meets regulatory standards set by authorities like the FDA. These systems are used in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical industries.
The running direction of the container affects how labels are applied and how the machine handles products. Whether containers move vertically or horizontally will impact label placement, production speed, and overall efficiency.
In vertical label applicators, containers move upright through the machine.
As the product moves along the conveyor, side panels with belts rotate the container, allowing the labelling head to apply the label to one side, and the rotation ensures it wraps around the entire product.
This vertical setup is suited for tall and stable containers such as food jars, bottles, and cosmetic containers, where consistent alignment and full coverage are important.
Horizontal label applicators handle containers lying on their sides, often used for unstable round containers like vials and ampules.
In this setup, as the product moves along the conveyor, the machine rotates the container while applying the label, ensuring even application around the circumference. Labels can be applied from above, below, or from the sides depending on the machine’s configuration.
Horizontal label applicators are best suited for items like pouches, bags, boxes, and products that are not self-standing, where a stable position is necessary for accurate labelling.
Label applicators can be classified based on the running direction of the equipment into two main types: inline and rotary.
Inline labelling machines move products in a straight line along a conveyor belt. These machines are widely used in industries like food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals due to their ability to maintain high-speed labelling. They integrate easily into existing production lines and do not require precise product alignment.
Rotary labelling machines rotate products around a central turret.
The turret securely holds each product in place as it moves to the labelling station, where labels are applied accurately. Rotary machines are designed for high-speed operations and are best suited for products requiring exact label placement.
They are used in industries like beverages and pharmaceuticals, where precision and speed are required.
Specialised label applicators are tailored for specific tasks beyond conventional labelling.
This section focuses on two key types: RFID Encoders and Applicators and Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) Technology Applicators.
RFID encoders and applicators apply RFID tags to products. An RFID system uses electromagnetic fields to identify and track items, with the encoder writing data onto a microchip within the tag, and the applicator affixing it to the product.
EAS technology applicators attach anti-theft tags to products, key for retail security. These tags trigger alarms if not deactivated or removed at checkout.
The system uses tags, deactivators, and detection antennas at store exits. EAS tags, available as hard or soft labels, help prevent theft and protect store inventory.
Selecting the right label applicator from various options can be challenging. Here’s a template to guide your decision-making process:
Start by identifying how your products need to be labelled. Whether it’s side labelling, top and bottom, wrap-around, or corner-specific labelling, choosing the correct labelling type ensures your product’s presentation aligns with your requirements
Consider the shape and size of your packaging. The applicator must accommodate round, flat, or square shapes and handle various surfaces. Ensuring compatibility with your packaging is crucial for achieving consistent labelling results.
Evaluate your production needs in terms of labelling speed. Different machines offer varying speeds, so select one that matches your required throughput to maintain efficiency and meet demand without causing delays.
Determine the type of labels you intend to use, such as pressure-sensitive, wet glue, or shrink sleeve labels. Ensure the applicator is compatible with your label type to avoid complications during production.
Assess the available space in your production area and consider your business’s future growth. Choose a machine that fits your current setup and can scale with your business, allowing for expansion without major disruptions.
Consulting with suppliers and manufacturers can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs, helping you make an informed choice.
Label applicators are essential for precise and efficient labelling, a key part of maintaining production flow and meeting industry standards. With Industry 4.0, these machines integrate IoT and AI to improve automation and traceability.
You may also want to check the range of linerless label applicators and linerless label branding machines we sell.
For reliable and advanced labelling solutions, visit the Triton Store to find the right applicators.
Melbourne
Brisbane
Phone 1300 558 438
Live Chat – Widget below
Melbourne
Brisbane
Phone 1300 558 438
Live Chat – Widget below
