Labeling Machines & Label Applicators: Guide

Manufacturing and packaging processes are time-sensitive and as such require precise labeling practices in the present world. No matter if you are labeling bottles, boxes, or any other type of packaging, it is important to have the right equipment. This guide will define labeling machines and label applicators, help distinguish between them, and identify how a business can select the right solution for them.

What is a Labeling Machine?

A labeling machine is a versatile apparatus used in the application of labels on products, or their packaging. They are especially used in applications where high volumes of products are required to be produced in a very short period, with high precision and quality. The label types that can be applied by labeling machines include adhesive stickers and shrink sleeves and this can be directly on the product’s surface.

There are different types of labeling machines and these are:

• Automatic Labeling Machines: These Machines can work on their own, which means that they do not need an intervention at all. They can be recommended for use in industries that involve mass production of goods where labeling is required to be done in a very short time and in an equal manner on all products.
• Semi-Automatic Labeling Machines: These Machines are those that do involve some degree of manual work, commonly for placing the product in the machine but everything about the labeling is automatic. These are normally used in situations where the shop where you are manufacturing your own products is relatively small.
• Specialized Labeling Machines: These are Specific labeling machines, meant and used for products such as bottles, cans, or boxes. These machines are designed in a way that would meet these product’s requirements when it comes to labeling them accurately.

What is a Label Applicator?

A label applicator is an apparatus used to attach labels to products or packaging dyes from a reel or a roll of the media used to print the labels. While labeling machines may have extra applications such as printing or even checking the labels, the label applicators are specially made for the application only.

Label applicators include hand-held label applicators, semi-automatic which can also be partly automatic, and fully automatic label applicators.

• Hand Label Applicators: are for use where the operator has to apply labels to products by hand. These are suitable in cases where one is involved in a small setup or in the production of special goods that require a lot of alterations.
• Semi-Automatic Label Applicators: as the name suggests require less manual intervention and automatically apply the label but the product has to be loaded manually. These devices are ideal for companies that require higher speed and uniformity of application than handheld applicators but not as mechanized as labeling machines.
• Automatic Label Applicators: are attached to conveyor systems where labels are fixed automatically according to the flow of the products. These applicators bear the advantage of being used in conjunction with other packaging machinery to enhance labeling.

Is there a difference between Labeling Machines and Label Applicators?

Although machines used for labeling and label applicators are closely related they are not the same. Both are methods of affixing nameplates to an article or a container but they have differences concerning the capabilities, the degree of automation, and the uses.

Similarities:

• Labeling machines and label applicators are machines that are used to enhance the flow and precision of labeling.
• It is used in such sectors as food and beverages, medical and pharmaceutical, cosmetics & toiletries as well as consumer goods.

Differences:

• Level of Automation: Labeling machines are often more mechanized and thus are capable of performing large production with little intervention from operators. On the other hand, label applicators can be fully manual or semi-manual, hence can be preferred for small operations.
• Integration and Complexity: Labeling machines are integrated into a line of working, which are designed to complete several labeling operations at one time, for instance, labeling and printing. Label applicators, particularly those that are handheld or semi-automatic are usually single attachment tools that address label application only, especially labels which are already printed.
• Use Cases: For this reason, labeling machines are highly suitable for use where there is high turnover in the packaging line as well as a major emphasis on the accuracy of labeling. Label applicators are designed for manual use, and can perform best in small-scale operations or where flexibility is optimum, as the case with labeling different sizes and shapes of products.

Selecting the Best Solution for You

Comparing a labeling machine and a label applicator is easy and depends on the requirements of a business, output, and capital.

• Production Volume and Speed: For a business that organizes the labeling of a large number of products in a single shift, for example the labeling of hundreds of products, the automatic labeling machine is the best. This category of equipment has the capability of processing foods at a very high speed and high precision so your production line will be efficient. However, if your operation is smaller or the products that you apply labels on are very diverse, then a semi-automatic label applicator would be ideal for you.
• Product Type and Packaging: Another compound that determines your decision will be the type of products and packaging you deal with. For instance, if you require labeling bottles then there is a labeling machine that has been developed for labeling cylindrical products only. However, if you are using different product shapes, there is always a supplier of sticker labeling machine supplier such as VialLabeller who can give you the appropriate package that you need.
• Budget Considerations: Labeling machines are normally more costly compared to other machines because of the high functionality and automation. But the investment can be justified by the increased efficiency and reduced labor cost they promote. Non-automotive label applicators, pole or handle-mounted, or semi-automated ones, are considerably cheaper and may be quite adequate for lower output companies.

However, as we tended to earlier when outlining our consideration criteria, it is important that you only settle on a renowned sticker labeling machine supplier. For example, VialLabeller provides many types of labeling machines and applicators so that every client gets a correct product choice.

Conclusion

Labeling machines and label applicators are two types of labeling equipment and it is extremely important to understand the differences between them to make the correct purchasing decision for your company. Although used as solutions for enhancing the efficiency of labeling processes, each of them targets a different requirement for different production conditions. Labeling machines are designed for large-scale, industrial use that is designed for use in a production line while label applicators are more widely applicable for small businesses or highly specific products.

In this regard, businesses that would wish to improve their labeling operations must find a reputable sticker labeling machine supplier. VialLabeller provides customers with the best solution in the labeling of various products and also provides a wide range of labeling services. Head on to their website to browse their products and get the right labeling system for your company.