The labeling machine is the core equipment of modern packaging production lines, which directly affects the product appearance and brand recognition. Choosing the right labeling machine can not only improve production efficiency, but also ensure the quality of label attachment, thereby enhancing the market competitiveness of products.
This blog provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of labeling machines classsified by level of automation, label type and applicable product shape.
What is a labeling machine?
Definition of a labeling machine
A labeling machine is a mechanical device specifically designed for the automatic or semi-automatic accurate attachment of labels to the surface of a product or package. It is capable of handling various types of labeling materials, such as self-adhesive labels, heat-shrink labels, or wet glue labels, and is suitable for a wide range of shapes and sizes of products.
Basic working principle of labeling machines
The operating principle of a labeling machine is based on the synergistic operation of precise mechanical and electronic control systems. Its core process consists of the following steps:
Label supply: Labels are conveyed into the machine by means of a reel or hopper.
Label Separation: Individual labels are separated from the backing or the entire roll using a peeling mechanism or cutting device.
Label Positioning: Ensures labels are in the correct position and ready for attachment using photoelectric sensors or mechanical positioning devices.
Product Conveying: Conveying the product to the labeling position by means of a conveyor belt or rotating platform.
Label attachment: precise attachment of the label to the product surface using pressure rollers, pneumatic systems or vacuum adsorption devices.
Press-fit fixation: Brush wheels or pressure rollers ensure that the label is in full contact with the product surface, avoiding wrinkles or air bubbles.
Types of Labeling Machines by Automation Level
Labeling machines can be classified into three main types based on their level of automation: manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic. Each type offers distinct characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications and business needs.
Manual Labeling Machines
Features:
Manual labeling machines are manually operated devices that require no electricity. They are an affordable option for labeling cans, bottles and containers in small batch operations. Manual labelers are easy to set up and operate, requiring only the operator to position the product and turn the handle to apply the label.
Pros and Cons:
Advantages of manual labelers include the low initial investment required, low maintenance requirements, and suitability for small-batch production.
Disadvantages include slow labeling speeds, potential for human error and inconsistencies and limited label placement options.
Semi-automatic labeling machine
Features:
Semi-automatic labeling machines automate part of the labeling process but still require some human involvement. They balance speed and economy, handling higher production volumes than manual labelers. The operator loads the label sheet with a foot pedal or switch and begins labeling. These machines may include additional features such as top/bottom labeling and coding.
Pros and Cons:
The obvious advantages over manual labeling machines are increased labeling speed and consistency, as well as reduced labor requirements. In addition to this, semi-automatic labelers are able to label a broader range of products and containers.
Disadvantages are that they cost more than manual labeling machines, require some operator training, and may not be suitable for high-volume production.
Types of Labeling Machines by Label Type
Pressure-sensitive labeling machines
Definition and Characteristics
Pressure-sensitive labels, also known as self-adhesive labels, have a pre-coated adhesive that sticks to the product when pressure is applied. They are versatile and widely used in various industries . Pressure-sensitive labels are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials to print variable information on demand. At the same time, pressure sensitive labels are easy to peel and stick to products.
How it works
Pressure sensitive labeling machines use a combination of rollers and brushes to apply these labels. The label sheet passes through the machine, peeling off the backing material and exposing the adhesive. As the product passes through, the label is applied with light to medium pressure.
Advantages of using pressure-sensitive labeling machines:
Versatility in labeling design and application
Fast and accurate labeling
Minimal downtime for label changeover
Suitable for products of all shapes and sizes
Shrink sleeve labeling machines
Definition and Features
Shrink sleeve labels are a popular choice for products with unique shapes or that require 360 degree branding. These labels are made of a heat-sensitive material that shrinks tightly around the product when exposed to heat. Features of shrink sleeve labels include full coverage and a seamless appearance, excellent product protection and tamper resistance. Also, vibrant colors and graphics can be printed.
How it works
Shrink sleeve labelers work by placing a sleeve label on the product and then heating it to make the label fit snugly around the product. The process involves a sleeve labeler, a heat tunnel and a conveyor system.
Advantages of using Shrink Sleeve Labeler:
Enhance product appearance and brand image
Improved product protection and safety
Ability to label complex shapes and contours
Improved label durability and abrasion resistance
Hot Melt Labeling Machines
Definition and Features
Hot Melt Labeling Machines use hot melt adhesive to adhere labels to products. Hot melt adhesives are solid at room temperature and need to be heated to their melting point before they can be used. This type of labeling is suitable for labels on a wide range of materials, especially where strong adhesion or fast curing is required. With the ability to handle products of different shapes and sizes, hot melt labelers are especially suited for full-circumference labeling or applications that require high-strength adhesion.
How it works
The hot melt labeler first heats the solid hot melt adhesive to a liquid state and then applies the molten adhesive to the label or product surface through a precisely controlled nozzle. The label is then precisely conveyed to the product surface and pressed closed by a pressure roller or pneumatic device. Finally, the glue cools quickly to form a strong bond. The entire process is highly automated, enabling efficient and accurate labeling.
Advantages of using hot melt labeling machines:
High adhesive strength for labels that need to be held for a long time
Fast curing speeds, significantly increasing productivity
Suitable for a wide range of materials and temperature extremes
Enables precise full circumference labeling for enhanced product appearance
Cold Glue Labeling Machines
Definition and Features
Cold Glue Labeling Machines use a water-based adhesive that is liquid at room temperature to adhere labels to products. This type of labeling is mainly used for paper labels and is widely used for rigid containers such as glass bottles and metal cans. Cold glue labeling machines are able to run on high-speed production lines, which is especially suitable for mass production in the food and beverage industry.
Working Principle
The Cold Glue Labeler evenly applies liquid glue to the back of the label by means of a glue roller or spraying device, and then accurately extracts a single label from the label stacker. The glue-coated labels are transferred to the product surface using vacuum adsorption or a robotic arm, which ensures that the labels are in full contact with the product surface by means of a pressure roller or brush wheel. Finally, the adhesive is dried and cured naturally at room temperature. This method enables accurate and efficient labeling on high-speed production lines.
Advantages of using cold glue labelers:
High efficiency for high-speed production lines
Lower labeling costs, especially in high-volume production
Environmentally friendly, using water-based adhesives
High flexibility, easy to handle complex shapes and highly decorative labels
Types of Labeling Machines by Applicable Product Shape
Round Bottle Labeling Machine
As the name suggests, a round bottle labeling machine is specialized for cylindrical bottles. The scope of application includes beverage bottles, wine bottles, cosmetic bottles and so on. Its core technology lies in the synchronization control system, which ensures that the label delivery speed and bottle rotation speed are precisely matched to achieve accurate positioning and seamless fitting. High-end equipment is usually equipped with a servo motor drive and PLC control system, which can realize a variety of labeling modes, such as full-periphery labeling, partially encircling labeling or multi-label combination labeling. Label material adaptability, can handle different types of labels such as paper, plastic, metal foil.
High-quality Round Bottle Labeling Machine
Square Bottle Labeling Machine
They are labeling equipment designed for square or rectangular cross-section containers, commonly used in daily chemical products such as shampoo bottles and shower gel bottles. Since it is impossible to utilize bottle rotation to achieve wrap-around labeling, a multi-station labeling system is usually used. High-precision mechanical positioning devices and visual alignment systems ensure accurate labeling on all planes. Advanced square bottle labeling machines can achieve continuous labeling in “I”, “L” or “U” shapes to meet different packaging needs. Some of the machines are also integrated with heat-shrink sleeve labeling function, which can provide all-round labeling coverage for square containers.
Shaped Bottle Labeling Machine
Shaped Bottle Labeling Machines are highly specialized equipment for handling non-standard-shaped containers. Suitable for polygonal, oval or other special shaped containers. Core technologies include programmable multi-axis motion control systems and flexible clamping mechanisms. Usually adopts a servo motor-driven pendulum arm or multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm, combined with high-precision sensors and real-time image processing technology, to dynamically adjust the movement trajectory of the labeling head. Some high-end equipment integrates 3D scanning technology, which can automatically recognize and adapt to different bottle shapes, significantly improving the flexibility of the production line. To ensure the perfect fit of labels to shaped surfaces, technologies such as vacuum-assisted or hot air activation are often used.
Contact WEJING for High-quality Labeling Machines
Labeling plays a crucial role in product packaging and identification. It not only conveys essential product information to consumers but also serves as a key branding and marketing tool. For Choosing the labeling solution that best suits your production needs, we sincerely invite you to contact WEJING. Our professional team will provide you with personalized labeling machine solution recommendations and detailed consultation based on your specific needs. Contact us now to get your product ahead of the competition.
