To mark your products on a production line, there are 2 main solutions: labeling and printing. Each of these identification solutions offers manual and automatic options.
1 ST OPTION: LABELING AS A MARKING SOLUTION FOR ITS PRODUCTS
In product identification, you have 2 main options: labeling and printing. The self-adhesive label can be applied directly to the products (eg: ketchup bottle) or to the boxes containing them (eg: boxes of 12 ketchup bottles). This solution is more expensive than printing. So why do we choose it?
In some settings, the label is a choice while in others it is mandatory. For example, large retail chains require labels for a very simple reason: the boxes are often beige, and coding printed directly on them detracts from the contrast. Poor contrast impairs code readability, which can lead to delays due to multiple product scans. To obtain the best contrast, nothing beats printing in black ink on a white background of a self-adhesive label.
The label is also very present in food: consumers are far from enjoying eating tomatoes marked in ink, even if the ink is safe!
1. Manual labeling of products and packaging
To choose the label option while saving on labeling costs, manual labeling is a possibility. To do this, an operator must first print the labels using a thermal printing system and then apply them one by one to the products and packaging.
Pre-printed labels, convenient for manual labeling operation.
It's also possible to add an automatic portion to the process by rewinding a batch of pre-printed labels and inserting it into a semi-automatic applicator which makes label application easier and faster.
Automatic printing and labeling are a good way to overcome the problem of labor shortages facing today's factories: the workload of operators is lightened and their environment is improved.
2. Automatic labeling on the production line
When we go from manual labeling to automatic labeling, we can go very far: it is possible to create artificial intelligence in a production line that allows equipment to recognize the product in front of them, to know what message to print on the label and determine how to affix it to the product, with no manual operation required.
Automatic detection is possible thanks to industrial programmable logic controllers (API or PLC) which send a signal to label applicator printers equipped with viewer cameras. The equipment fits perfectly into any type of production line.
Automatic printing and labeling are a good way to overcome the problem of labor shortages facing today's factories: the workload of operators is lightened and their environment is improved.
Automation of labeling.
2 E OPTION: PRINTING TO ENCODE ITS PRODUCTS ON ITS PRODUCTION LINE
To identify their products with a logo or codes useful for tracking, many industries still use industrial marker pens or paint cans and stencils. These solutions are usually chosen when the products are very large, for example in the construction industry (concrete, steel joists, etc.).
However, there are manual and automatic marking solutions for all areas.
1. Manual printing of products or packaging
To continue to manually print large-sized products while eliminating the risk of error, EBS brand portable inkjet systems are unique in the market with their print height of 1.38 '' or 2 1 / 4 '' depending on the model. The portable electronic prints are also very practical and easily brought on site.
Both products are effective even on the porous surface of the cement . Their great advantage is to ensure a uniform and complete brand image and technical data from one product to another, regardless of the operator.
The portable inkjet system is ideal for printing on the porous surface of concrete.
2. Automatic printing integrated into the production line
Several options are possible when switching to automated printing in your production line, and there are customized marking solutions for every area. Usually, we can do the same as with automated labeling, that is, the production line can be smart and handle the printing of the products autonomously using PLCs and viewer cameras.
The high resolution printing systems and Drop on Demand is ideal for slower printing and require larger characters, such as cardboard boxes.
The continuous inkjet printing systems are in turn designed for speed, high-volume production and rapid drying on a wide variety of products. As the name suggests, it is preferable to use continuous jet printing for non-stop production since this system takes a long time to restart after shutdown and non-use still incurs maintenance costs. .
Fully autonomous marking with the right equipment on its production line.
If your product is non-porous, you will need a solvent-based ink since an oil-based or water-based ink will not dry out.
WHAT TO THINK BEFORE CHOOSING YOUR IDENTIFICATION SOLUTION?
The key to avoiding breakage in your marking and coding equipment is to choose it well, install it correctly and use it well. Each identification solution is unique and must be personalized for each company.
Here are some of the criteria to consider in order to obtain a 100% suitable product:
Environment (humid, dry, cold, hot, etc.)
Production line speed
Production line configuration
Data to print (date, batch number, logo, barcode, etc.)
Height of desired message
Current computer system
Specific needs of operators
Fast drying time (for plastic bottles, yogurt pots, lipsticks, etc.)
Strict regulations depending on the field (cosmetics, food, etc.)
Turnover rate of products to be printed
Maintenance cost
Production cost
Product shape (ink projection or direct printing required)
Replacement of equipment or new purchases
Product surface (porous or not, type of material, etc.)
These criteria have a great impact on your equipment. For example, if your product is non-porous (juice bottles, yogurt jars), you will need a solvent-based ink since an oil-based or water-based ink will not dry out. The right identification equipment for each product!
With DMS, you benefit from a turnkey marking and coding solution for your production line.
LET US HELP YOU
When you call on us, we assess your factory. We test the printing of your messages and the operation on your production lines. You can rest assured that your printing or labeling solution is fluid, fast and efficient. We also take the time to carefully consider your reviews and past experiences with other similar devices to provide you with products that you will be truly satisfied with.
Installation takes just one day and we also offer equipment training for your employees. They will know how to create a message, how to edit it, how to clean the device or how to change the ink. We are also providing Machine This Purpose you can check it here End of line packaging automation
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