Food Labeling Machinery in Action

Food labeling machinery can be incredibly complex and fast moving. Ensuring that your products are being correctly labeled, and that the labels maintain their integrity when they are placed on your package are both vital to quality marketing. Fortunately, the PL-221C Clamshell labeler and the PL-221 Top and Bottom labeler provide plenty of visibility and adjustments to ensure that your labels are being placed accurately every time. 

Operation of the PL-221C 

The PL-221C food labeling machinery was designed specifically for use with clamshell type packaging of any size. In most cases, companies wish to use their labels as a means of sealing the clamshell closed to prevent tampering with the food inside. As the clamshell container comes down the line, a label is hanging down in its path. The salad container hits the label at the middle point causing the bottom half of the label to wrap around the bottom of the container. A rubber brush then pushes the label down firmly to the bottom while a roller run across the top of the label and pushes the upper portion of the label down. Since the container contacts the label at the same height each and every time, you are guaranteed to have exactly half of the label on either side of the container, holding it closed. 

Operation of the PL-221 

The PL-221 food labeling machinery is a top and bottom labeling machine. It utilizes two rolls of labels concurrently for items that are not in clamshell containers. This includes foam trays, boxes, bags and other types of containers. In this case, both reels of labels are synchronized so that as a package comes through the line, its labels are dispensed to the top and bottom of the container at the same time and in the same location. The result is that when you turn your package over you will see that the top and bottom labels are placed identically in the center of your product. After each label is dispensed onto the package, a top and bottom brush force the labels down and cause them to adhere strongly to the package without bubbles or tears. 

Both of these machines are designed with flexibility in mind so you can adjust for different sizes of containers as well as different sizes of labels. The mechanisms used to place and synchronize the labels work together to guarantee accuracy and adherence. They are also designed for a wide range of operating speeds so you can start slow and make minor adjustments in line until you are satisfied with the result before ramping up to full operating speeds of up to 50 labels per minute or more. If you ever need to change labels or designs, the changeover process is simple and streamlined so you can minimize your downtime. Both labeling machines make a great addition to any in-line packaging operation. 

Learn more about choosing the right labeler for your food and beverage packaging line.

Read The Fresh Foods Industry Guide To Evaluating Labeling Equipment