The Automation of the Labelling Machine

Labels play a large part in the life of packaged products. Labelling is critical to the product packaging process. If a package is not labelled it cannot be identified or shipped, it is even forbidden to sell the product in most of the markets.

Pressure sensitive labelling machines are becoming more popular because it offers the user a lower maintenance and operator intervention solution. A pressure sensitive Labelling Machine applied pre-glued labels that are supplied on a reel of release paper of film. The pressure sensitive labels undergo multiple manufacturing steps to have the label temporarily adhere to a web or roll but will permanently adhere to the package.

A Pressure Sensitive Labelling Machine has three basic sections:

The labelling head: Its function is to accurately dispense a single label from the h 56 h 56 h 56 h 56e carrier tape to the applicator at the required speed. It is a motor driven tape transport mechanism. The label which is on the tape is dispensed when reaching the peeling plate.

The applicator: Its function is to accurately place the label on the product at the required speed.

The product handling system: Its function is to place the product consistently at the required speed in position for label pasting. 

Micro850™ programmable controllers can be applied on a labelling machine to help OEMs quickly design, develop and deliver labelling machines, find the solutions and benefits below:

• Modular Software Design- Allen-Bradley® Connected Components Workbench™ software supports programming in ladder diagram, function block diagram and structured text. User Defined Function Blocks (UDFBs) are supported to implement a modular code structure.
• Advanced Motion Control - The Micro850™ programmable controller supports up to 3 motion axes using Pulse Train Outputs to stepper and servo drives. Graphical Axis configuration screens are provided in the Allen-Bradley® Connected Components Workbench™ software to aid in configuration.
• Touch Probe / Registration- The Touch Probe function is able to capture accurate registration position at high speeds with built-in hardware. This is extremely useful for applications like labeling machines where precise positioning is required at high speeds.
• Versatility of Micro850™ Interfaces- Digital and analog Inputs & Outputs, up to 6 High Speed Counter inputs and up to 3 Pulse Train Outputs. Embedded USB programming port, serial port (RS232/485) and 10/100 Base-T Ethernet. 
• High Performance and High Flexibility- Plug-in and expansion modules allow you to optimize your machine cost by choosing performance and functionality specific to your machine needs.

For more information about the benefits of applying Micro850 programmable controllers click here.