Pharmaceutical and Medical Packaging News Magazine
PMPN Article Index

Originally Published May 1998

PRODUCT UPDATE

Capable Labelers

Packagers can rely on labelers to apply bar codes and graphics on almost any type of package.

Today's labelers can handle even the most complicated medical and pharmaceutical packages. For instance, some models can label convex or concave containers, simultaneously apply labels to two sides of a package, even apply multiple-layer labels. Almost any type of package, ranging from cartons to bottles to ampules, can be labeled at speeds as high as 60 units per minute.

Labelers can be used to print bar codes, logos, graphics, and text onto label stock or directly onto products. Some systems can print such elements in color all in one pass, eliminating the need to preprint logos or other standard information and then sending the label stock through the printer again to imprint variable information.

A printer allows users to download a label format, graphics, or a database to an optionally installed PCMCIA card, disconnect the printer, and take the printer to a new location. Using the Apollo printer's front panel or a standard computer keyboard, users can input data, specify the number of labels needed, and merge database information into label format, all without an attached computer. For security, label formats cannot be altered on the PCMCIA card without using an authorized computer. Tharo Systems Inc., Brunswick, OH.

A system prints and applies labels on up to 40 syringes per minute. Syringes may be filled or unfilled and can range in size from 6 to 12 cm³. Using a Labeljet 2620 label printer and applicator, the system can print batch, lot, and date codes as well as bar codes and graphics. Willett America Inc., Fort Worth, TX.

Digital thermal-transfer label printers can print any quantity of color labels with bar codes, text, logos, and images. The QLS color printers use plain blank label stock and print the entire label in one pass. The product family has models that can print two-, three-, or full-color labels or print on two sides of a label simultaneously. All models handle label stock up to 41Ž2 in. wide and 60 in. long. QuickLabel Systems Div., Astro-Med Inc., West Warwick, RI.

A pressure-sensitive labeling system is designed for high-volume use. Model 8300 features a single-motor belt-driven system and stepper-driven labeling heads. The conveyor, metering feedscrews, and belt are precisely and synchronously driven with the main drive motor. Options include a wrap belt applicator for cylindrical product labeling and hot-stamp printers. CCL Labeling Equipment, Monrovia, CA.

A pressure-sensitive labeler applies a leaflet label to the back panel and a corner-wrap label to the front panel of a pharmaceutical bottle. Model 6900 can handle 60 units per minute with an accuracy of ±1Ž64 in. The system is fully enclosed and has interlocked safety guarding. Labeling Systems Inc., Oakland, NJ.

A printer-applicator can apply two labels to adjacent sides of a carton, eliminating the need for wrapping one label around a corner and saving approximately 20­25% in label stock. The CimJet 346 first prints the bar code label, then applies it to a box, carton, or other surface. The system can support a variety of label sizes and shapes. Markem Corp., Keene, NH.

A system prints and applies labels to the top, bottom, back, front, or sides of cartons or cases or directly to products with an application stroke up to 11 in. The ValuePro system produces clear and scannable labels with a resolution of 203 dpi. Imtec Inc., Bellows Falls, VT.

A product handling and labeling system applies paper, film, or thin-film pressure-sensitive labels to a variety of rectangular and cylindrical containers. Model 935PW can apply 1-, 2-, or 3-panel or wraparound labels at high speeds. An outsert applicator can also be added. Microstepper applicators maintain variable-speed operation and precise control, necessary for handling opaque or clear film labels and convex or concave containers. A microprocessor holds all product and label setups in memory for fast, accurate changeover. Accraply, Plymouth, MN.

A printer-applicator, capable of both thermal and thermal-transfer label printing, features an automatic label applicator for fast, consistent in-line labeling. Model 8490S uses a print engine with a high-speed, 32-bit RISC processor to produce bar codes, text, and graphics with a resolution of 300 dpi at speeds as high as 8 in./sec. The system can handle label materials up to 5.25 in. wide and 7.0 in. long; longer sizes are optional. As labels are printed, a tamp-blow applicator performs noncontact labeling of products or cartons. Weber Marking Systems Inc., Arlington Heights, IL.

A family of labeling systems includes label printer-applicators and stand-alone desktop label printers. The systems use Elan, a label design package that enables users to create labels that include text, graphics, and industry bar codes such as UPC and EAN 128. All systems can be supplied with a handheld terminal, into which label designs can be downloaded. Alpha Dot USA, Belle Mead, NJ.

A system produces gummed tape that can both mark and seal packages in one step. The CodeTaper creates a tamper-evident, dustproof system that completely seals cartons while bearing product identification, company logos, or other messages. According to the supplier, the gummed tape is economical and easier to use than plastic tape, staples, stitches, or hot-melt glue. The BP 754 and BP 755 dispensers can be programmed to create tape strips of any length, and heaters located on the top of the dispensers ensure total reactivation of the gummed tape. Better Packages, Shelton, CT.

A blow-on label applicator can automatically apply pressure-sensitive labels in a variety of sizes and materials to a variety of packages. Model 2111ST is microprocessor controlled and equipped

with a stepper drive. It can also be supplied with an optional 20-in. powered unwinder for extended operation. Several clutch-and-break models are available with a UL-approved rating. Label-Aire, Fullerton, CA.

A label printer-applicator features a tamp pad range of 6.25 in. and can operate either horizontally or vertically. Model 400 is compatible with an Allen-Bradley MicroLogix Series 1000 PLC and can be supplied with a choice of print engines. A heavy-duty floor stand includes leveling pads, vertical height adjustment, and casters. NJM/CLI Packaging Systems International, Lebanon, NH.

A thermal-transfer printer for blister cards and strip and fanfold labels is suitable for many kinds of material, including textiles, tickets, and varnished and unvarnished stacks in widths from 1.2 to 6.1 in. The XXtreme prints up to 10 in./sec. It prints characters with a resolution of 300 dpi and can modify characters. Dalemark Industries Inc., Lakewood, NJ.

A versatile system applies labels to small-diameter ampules, vials, syringes, or other cylindrical products at speeds up to 400 parts per minute. The PL60 features two intercommunicating microprocessor controls: one for product handling, the other for labeling. It is available with a validation package, vision system, bar code verification, and a product eject system. Quadrel Labeling Systems, Mentor, OH.

A vial and bottle labeler is designed to keep manual operations and size changeover times to a minimum. Constructed of stainless steel, the Neri RL450 can function in-line with other machines or function alone with tray feeding and discharging devices. It features a servocontrolled variable star wheel that can handle diameter sizes between 8 and 32 mm. Marchesini Packaging, West Caldwell, NJ.

A firm offers one of the lowest-priced on-demand label printer-applicators with a very small footprint. The printer-applicator can accommodate containers ranging in size from 1/2 to 12 in. diam and 1 to 12 in. long. Automatic bar code and label verification is optional, and custom designs are available. The system can be tabletop or floor mounted. Denco Data Equipment Corp., Norristown, PA.

A heavy-duty, high-speed label printer-applicator is capable of running continuously. The PA/5000 can print and apply thermal/thermal transfer labels to cartons, packages, totes, pallets, and primary products. It can print at speeds up to 12 in./sec on paper, film, and synthetic label materials. Customers can choose from a variety of fully integrated print engines. Diagraph Corp., Earth City, MO.