If you are considering the benefits of investing in one of many available custom print and apply systems for product identification of pallets, containers, or shipping cases, you first need to discern just what type of system would serve your unique operational needs best. Here we detail some of the print and apply systems and options available in the marketplace today along advantages of each. Read on to uncover which system may best align with your business strategy and related objectives.
- Loose loop print and apply systems can run both pre-printed and blank labels on the same system. This type of system also delivers a faster application rate by printing and applying each label separately. Some even come with a direct, apply, tamp apply or blow-on application device while others offer complementary add-on options like alarm packages, multi-panel labeling devices, and mounting stands. This may also be your choice if you integrate it with feeding systems or you need to move it to different production lines, offering the benefits of flexibility and mobility.
- Other systems fill in specific niches in the marketplace like those that fill needs in-between those requiring table top printer options and others that are print engine-based printers and applicators. This type of machine offers important functions like a label unwind and rewind assemblies and a PLC controls package, but can also be integrated with a wide range of printer types–from table top to true OEM print engines.. This type of system also allows for a wide range of add-on options and application configurations.
- Additional types of print and apply systems offer other options that may be valuable to your particular need, including detection devices and alarms, a labeler that can print labels in batch mode or on demand or labeling head configurations that include tamp apply, blown-on, tamp/blow, swing tamp, multi panel tamp, a device that allows long narrow labels to be applied directly to the side or the corner wrap of a product.
In considering these different options, it is easy to see just how many customizations are possible for printing and application systems. Therefore, it is important to consider all the available features, functions, and configurations to design a system that meets all of your specific needs.
In Summary:
In summarizing where you should start with custom print and apply systems, here are some tips:
- Consider what types of systems are available and what each one is known for in terms of benefits and results. For example loose loop systems can run both pre-printed and blank labels while other systems offer other options or fill specific niches in the marketplace.
- Think about where and how you need to use this system on your production line, match the printer to the table top printer brand you may already use for software capatibility are limited on space, or have to move it from production line to production line at a moment’s notice.
