Types of Label Applicators: Choosing the Right One for Your Business

Label applicators are machines designed for affixing pre-printed labels onto products. These applicators employ various methods for label dispensing, including air-blow, tamp-blow, wipe-on, and tamp applicators. In contrast, print and apply labelers generate labels in real time and then affix them directly to the products.

Prior to attaching the labels, proper product alignment is ensured. Initially, a roll containing pre-printed labels is unspooled. Subsequently, the backing liner on each label is removed to reveal the adhesive side (PSA). The labels are then separated from the continuous web. The "peeled label" is securely held by the labeling head on the opposite side of the adhesive. When the machine detects a product, it temporarily stops the product in front of the applicator, and the labeling head affixes the adhesive side under the label onto the product. After the label has been attached, the product continues its journey along the conveyor to undergo subsequent processes.

Label Applicator offer effective and precise labeling solutions, making them well-suited for efficiently labeling large quantities of products. They possess the versatility to apply labels to various parts of the product, including the top, bottom, sides, and corners.

Types of Label Applicators

Air-Blow Label Applicators:

Air-blow label applicators create a vacuum to secure the label on the applicator head before its application onto the product. Upon detecting the product, compressed air is directed through a pneumatic solenoid valve, causing the label's adhesive side (PSA) to adhere to the product's surface. These air-blow label applicators are particularly well-suited for delicate and irregularly shaped products.

Wipe-On Label Applicators:

Wipe-on label applicators represent the most prevalent category of label applicators. These applicators employ a roller mechanism to affix labels onto products as they pass through the applicator. It is crucial to maintain synchronization between the product's movement and label application to prevent label wrinkling. When the conveyor halts, the label applicator operation should also cease. Wipe-on label applicators guarantee the application of labels without bubbles. Moreover, they boast a lower operational cost compared to non-contact applicators because they do not rely on compressed air.

Tamp-Blow Label Applicators:

Tamp-blow label applicators belong to the category of non-contact applicators, much like air-blow applicators. They employ negative pressure generated by a vacuum to secure the label before affixing it to the product. These applicators feature a pneumatic cylinder that guides the label toward the product, enhancing the precision and uniformity of label positioning. The application of the label onto the product is accomplished through the release of compressed air. Consequently, the label is applied without direct contact between the labeling head and the product. Tamp-blow applicators excel at affixing labels to irregular or uneven surfaces.

Tamp Label Applicators:

Tamp label applicators utilize a positive tamp action to firmly press the label onto the product's surface, establishing a secure bond between them. They excel at applying labels to uneven or rough surfaces. In the market, you can find tabletop-sized and manually operated variations of these applicators.

A Bottle Labeling Machine equipped with a label applicator stands as a crucial asset. These machines optimize the label attachment process for bottles, assuring both precision and efficiency. Regardless of whether the label applicator is of the air-blow, wipe-on, tamp-blow, or tamp variety, it assumes a central role. It ensures the precise placement of labels, accommodating the diverse shapes and sizes of bottles. These machines exhibit versatility and adeptly handle high bottle volumes, mitigating the likelihood of human errors. Consequently, they elevate product aesthetics and maintain brand uniformity. Whether within a small-scale craft brewery or a large-scale production facility, a bottle labeling machine paired with a label applicator guarantees flawless label application, adhering to industry standards and customer expectations.

Label applicators are indispensable tools for efficiently and precisely affixing labels to various products, including bottles. They come in different types such as air-blow, wipe-on, tamp-blow, and tamp applicators, each suited for specific labeling needs. These machines ensure proper alignment and reduce the risk of errors, enhancing product aesthetics and brand consistency.

John Scott content writer and digital marketing graduate. Write about business tip, tech, technology topics.