Pharmaceutical and Medical Packaging News Magazine
PMPN Article Index

Originally Published January 1999

PRODUCT UPDATE

Print Codes and Text with Labelers

These machines put information on anything from the tiniest vial to an entire pallet.

Manufacturers can help pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, and contract packagers comply with labeling requirements, whether the item to be labeled is an odd-shaped container or a carton filled with products. Labelers use a variety of label stocks, and they print everything from a few lines of text to an elaborate picture combining logos, artwork, type, and bar codes. Many printer-applicators are designed to store several label styles in memory and can apply labels to different kinds of containers.

A vial and bottle labeler is designed to keep manual operations and size-change times to a minimum. The Neri RL450 can function in line with other machines or by itself with tray feed and discharge devices. Its servo-controlled variable star wheel can handle diameter sizes between 8 and 32 mm. Marchesini Packaging, West Caldwell, NJ.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers and contract packagers who require fast equipment changeover can also achieve precision label placement with a self-adhesive labeling machine. The NV-II HS changes to accommodate cylindrical, flat, square, or oval plastic or glass containers measuring 10 to 150 mm. The machine works with unusual containers or labels. Newman Machinery, Belle Mead, NJ.

A labeling software package has been upgraded to include improved label design capabilities, more database features, and enhancements to its print queue. Easylabel Version 2.1 for Microsoft Windows offers bar code and labeling solutions for compliance, shipping, receiving, manufacturing, inventory control, and quality assurance. Easylabel supports a range of fonts and graphic formats and offers the ability to format text. Tharo Systems Inc., Brunswick, OH.

Designed with small, difficult applications in mind, a printer-applicator produces labels as small as 0.5 x 0.5 in. with speeds up to 30 labels per minute. The ValuePro 3240 can be used in line or as a stand-alone system. The system ensures accurate label placement to 0.0001 in. with 406-dpi resolution. Imtec Inc., Bellows Falls, VT.

A linerless label applicator features single- and multiple-label options for round or odd-shaped containers. The Lightening Laser Labeler features a Lasersoft laser label-cutting system, a selvage rewind mechanism, a PLC operator interface, and quick-change parts. The system allows operators to use linerless labels, which are less expensive to produce, create less waste, and yield longer runs between roll changes. NJM/CLI Packaging Systems International, Lebanon, NH.

A line of printer-applicator systems offers users a variety of solutions based on dispensing speed, label width and length, and price requirements. The ALX-720 labeling systems are suited for high-speed, pressure-sensitive labeling needs. The printers offer a resolution of 300 dpi and a maximum speed of 12 in./sec. Avery Dennison, Philadelphia, PA.

A small footprint allows a midrange-performance printer to fit within a small production area. The Model BH2600 roll-fed labeler handles containers from 2 to 5 in. in diameter and works at speeds of up to 500 containers per minute. Changeover is quick and requires no tools. B&H Labeling Systems, Ceres, CA.

A rotary labeling system integrates orienting, cap retorquing, coding, inspecting, tamper-evident banding, and rejecting. The Autocol labeler feeds outserts from a bulk hopper and applies them onto containers. The company offers a variety of validation packages. Krones Inc., Franklin, WI.

Instant feeding, printing, and wrapping of graphics and text is performed by a wrap printer-applicator. The Series 9000 system incorporates a label design program that can print standard fonts, international character sets, and graphics. Automatic bar code and label verification is available. Denco Data Equipment Corp., Norristown, PA.

A microprocessor-controlled label applicator works at speeds of up to 1200 in./min. The Labeljet 210 is available with either a touch, tamp, or blow application module, allowing it to fit almost any labeling application. Application modules can be changed quickly and easily. Willett America Inc., Fort Worth, TX.

A pressure-sensitive labeler applies front-and-back, multipanel, or wraparound labels at high speeds. Designed for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, the 9000R system features the company's 90 series servomotor push and pull label applicators. Optional features include hot-melt or pressure-sensitive outsert applicators, secondary printers, and automatic container and label quality inspection systems. Accraply, Plymouth, MN.