Videojet: End-of-line labeling a frequent source of headaches

Labels applied to packages and cartons frequently jam in the printer or applicator. By incorporating a system that avoid such malfunctions, a food packaging operation can avoid lost time and profit.

Common challenges​

David Freed, Videojet’s regional product manager in North America for large character marking, sat down with FoodProductionDaily and explained how advances in end-of-line labeling are streamlining packaging operations in food environments. According to Freed, such technologies have been rife with problems in the past.

“Label jams, missed cases, broken ribbon or label web, and misadjusted applicators are some of the most frustrating problems with end-of-line labelling​,” he said.

Avoiding problems​

The Videojet 9550 end-of-line labeling system is a print-and-apply unit, designed to address the technical challenges that frequently drain packaging productivity. The updated design reportedly does away with mechanisms that lead to label jams and other problems.

“Using Intelligent Motion, we eliminate the need for operator adjustments​,” Freed said. “Our system automatically adapts to system operation and needs, ensuring the labels are printed and applied at the proper time and speed​.”

Videojet’s Intelligent Motion tracks the tension of the labels and ribbon, as well as the label and ribbon speed, to make sure it is optimized for labeling needs. Freed said as the labels and ribbon are used, the 9550 automatically ensures proper adjustment and accuracy.

Avoiding downtime​

Freed told FPD one of the most significant advantages to the 9550 is reduced packaging system downtime.

“Operators and maintenance are able to concentrate on more value-added activities, as the 9550 does the labeling and adjusts itself as needed​,” he said. “No more worrying about air pressure, print roller pressure, nip rollers, etc.—it is truly a ‘set it and forget it product​.”

Ondrej Kruk, global business unit manager at Videojet, explained the 9550 places labels onto packages or cartons without using a tamp or air-blast applicator. Capacity is up to 150 packs per minute for 4x6-inch GS1 barcode labels.

Additionally, the system uses the company’s CLARiTY touchscreen interface, which reportedly offers intuitive job selection, and thorough feedback and diagnostics, to minimize operator error.