Logopak's print & apply eliminates compressed air

11 Mar 2011

A prototype energy saving print & apply labeller, tag-on-demand RFID labelling, and laser printing for labels up to A3 are among developments being launched at interpack by automatic ID specialist Logopak.

The prototype Logopak 515ETG labeller has been developed for a major UK dairy, which is seeking to reduce CO2 emissions and energy costs at one of its sites by eliminating use of compressed air. The machine uses stepper motor drives and timing belts in place of the usual pneumatic cylinders and a specially designed vacuum box in place of the normal compressed air operated unit. Based on a standard Logopak 515 labeller, which has a 600mm horizontal and 450mm vertical movement, the electrically driven machine is to be installed later this year and will be used to apply labels to the top surface of various packs.

"This dairy is constructing a new site in the London area and looking to create the greenest site of its type in the UK. It has targeted the energy cost and particularly system losses inherent in compressed air systems," Logopak UK general manager Wilson Clark said. "As a solution purely driven by electrical motors, the 515ETG labeller is the first machine of its type and required a lot of engineering changes and expertise to develop. Given that sustainability is such an important driver, we believe this technology can be transfered across other sectors."

Other interpack highlights
Also on show is a new system for reducing the cost of print & apply RFID labelling in applications where more than one bar code label is required, such as adjacent side identification of pallets and cases, or where only packs for some customers require RF tags. Rather than use labels with pre-attached tags, the Logopak 920 RFID print & apply labeller is fed with separate reels of RF tags and labels. It can write and apply a single RF tag, which is then verified in place and covered by one of the pack's bar code labels. Alternatively the machine can apply no tag at all.

"The result is that we can minimise both cost and the kind of confusion that occurs when a scanner picks up readings from multiple tags," explained Mr Clark. "We also have an innovative 'flag tag' solution suited to liquids, whereby the label can be flicked back. This improves scanability in conjunction with 'difficult' products that absorb UHF RF energy."

Another piece of equipment on display is Logopak's new compact laser printing system, which can create large labels, up to A3, on paper laminates, plastic and even metal label substrates for harsh environments such as steel and brick manufacture. The printer will be directed at the hazardous goods, chemicals and steel sectors, among others. Mr Clark noted that laser printing is easier in such conditions than using a normal thermal printer. Moreover, Logopak's offering occupies up to 75 per cent less space than conventional laser printers.

Logopak at interpack 2011, 12-18 May, can be found in hall 16, stand B36.

Source: Logopak