TPY-200 Pressure Sensitive Labeler

Pressure Sensitive Labeler: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

All information you’re looking for about pressure-sensitive labeler is right here.

From structural design, parts, working principle, features, application to classification – everything you need to learn about pressure-sensitive labeler is right here.

Keep reading to learn more.

What is a Pressure Sensitive Label?

A pressure-sensitive label is also known as a self-adhesive or self-stick adhesive.

This is a non-reactive adhesive that will form a bond with a surface when you apply pressure on it.

It requires no water, solvent, or heat to activate the adhesive.

Materials that make this label can be paper, film, or foil.

Pressure-sensitive label

What is a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

This is a machine that will apply pressure-sensitive labels on the surface of various products.

Pressure-sensitive labeler

How is a Pressure Sensitive Label Made?

Pressure-sensitive labels are on many products that we see in the market every day.

This material consists of face stock and an adhesive.

The adhesive on pressure-sensitive labels will determine the kind of pressure you need to make it stick.

On products, we only see the label itself but it has different layers that sandwich together:

· Top Coat

The topcoat will provide physical protection or enhance some properties of the label.

It is a coating or lamination that you apply on the face stock.

This layer can improve adhesion or the legibility of secondary imprints.

Typical uses are for a date or lot coding.

During the labeling process, special UV sensitive films or vanishes can assist with product detection.

· Face Stock

Paper is the most common type of face stock.

Other types of face stock that exist include:

1. Foils
2. Plastic films
3. Laminates
4. Fabrics

· Adhesive

An adhesive will make the label stick to the surface of the product or package.

A wide array of adhesive formulations exist in the market today.

The adhesive one selects depends on the application and the environment:

1. A dry or wet environment
2. Permanent or removable
3. The temperature of product storage
4. Label application temperature
5. Material surface of the product whether plastic, metallic, paper, etc.
6. Texture of the product surface such as rough or smooth.

For instance, when applying a pressure-sensitive label on an air conditioner, you require an adhesive that will stick on metal.

Also, ensure it can handle outdoor environments and can last for a long time.

When planning to use a label once on a shipping carton, you might select a repositionable adhesive for peel and redeem the coupon.

· Release Coat

This is a coating that one applies on the top surface of the liner.

The design of the release coat makes it resistant to adhesive, allowing the face stock and adhesive to peel from the liner.

· Liner

This is the paper or film that will make up the web material backing.

It ranges from craft paper, semi-bleached-paper, to a durable clear film liner.

A unique material that makes up the liner enables one to remove the label no matter the strength of the adhesive.

How does a Structural and Pressure Sensitive Label Compare?

Two broad classes of adhesives exist pressure-sensitive and structural adhesives.

Structural adhesives will harden to form a permanent bond through processes such as:

• Reaction to UV radiation
• Evaporation of solvent
• Cooling process
• Chemical reactions

Contrary to this, a pressure-sensitive adhesive will stick on the surface of products when you apply light pressure on them.

Pressure-sensitive adhesives have a balance between resistance to flow and flow.

A bond will form since the adhesive is soft to flow or wet the surface of products.

The strength of the bond is active since the adhesive is hard to resist flowing when you apply pressure on it.

Molecular interactions happen when the adhesive and the surface are close.

Proper bonding happens on pressure-sensitive adhesives since they display elastic and viscous properties.

Lap shear strength is what evaluates structural adhesives.

Evaluating pressure-sensitive adhesives happens by evaluating their shear, peel resistance, and original tack.

What are the Applications of a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

Many industries use a pressure-sensitive labeler to apply labels on their products.

Here are examples of such industries:

• Pharmaceutical industries
• Food industries
• Automotive industries
• Beverage industries
• Chemical industries
• Household industries
• Cosmetic industries
• Stationery industries

What are the Types of Labels that are Available in the Market?

Several kinds of labels are available for use by industries in the labeling process.

Besides pressure-sensitive labels, here are some of the labels you can find:

· Shrink Sleeve Labels

This is also known as a shrink-wrap label.

Printing happens on the polymer plastic film that will entirely wrap the container or product when you apply heat.

A manual handheld gun can apply heat to shrink the wrap.

In large scale industries, the products may pass through a tunnel that applies heat to shrink the wrap material.

They are common in beverage industries.

· Direct Thermal Labels

Also known as thermal labels, they will change color when you apply heat.

Instead of using ink, toner, or ribbons, it will create labels using a heating element.

The heating element is in the shape of words and images that you will directly apply to the label material.

These labels are not durable since other heat sources can alter the color or fade over time.

· Thermal Transfer Labels

This label is advisable where direct thermal labels are not suitable since the product is near the source of heat.

It uses a ribbon that will print durable images or text on labels.

The thermal printhead will apply heat hence melting the ribbon’s ink on the products.

It is long-lasting, less fragile, and the ribbons use wax, resin, or wax and resin.

· Die-Cut Labels

Die-cutting involves using a die and a press to cut unique shapes.

These labels have distinct shapes that you will use for branding and aesthetic uses.

Customization makes it possible for use on uniquely-shaped bottles and products.

· In-Mold Label

These labels are molded on containers during manufacturing or embedded in the final product.

Blow molding, thermoforming, or injection molding is the process of applying this kind of label thus no adhesive is necessary.

It appears to be part of the container since it is not on its surface.

Besides, they are durable making them great for warning labels.

Uses are for liquid laundry detergent bottles.

· Roll-Fed Labels

This is an economical label that simply wraps all around the container offering full coverage.

It is easy to customize roll-fed labels as it allows quick changeovers.

The uses include labeling beverage bottles, canned, and dairy products.

· Cut and Stack Labels

These are high quality, multicolored, economical labels.

It can use different kinds of print technologies with a variety of substrates.

What are the Features of a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

The features of a pressure-sensitive labeler may vary depending on the capabilities of the machine.

Here are examples of the features you can find:

• Programmable Logic Controller [PLC] and Human Machine Interface [HMI] controls
• Automatic sensors
• Stainless steel construction
• Open frame designs
• Servo-driven label dispensers
• Speeds of up to 200 containers per minute
• Overhead belt container stabilizers
• Product alignment systems
• Label coding
• Hot stamp printers

Figure 3 Pressure sensitive labeling machine

What Factors should you Consider while Choosing a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

Choosing a pressure sensitive labeler that meets your labeling needs can be a daunting task.

The factor that worth considering is that makes this process challenging.

Here are some guidelines that will assist you when choosing a pressure sensitive labeler:

· Operating Speed and Technology

Different machines have varying production speeds.

Ensure the machine you select will meet your production capacity and has the latest technology.

· Company Scale

Purchase fully automatic pressure sensitive labelers when you have a large commercial company.

· Size and Shape of the Machine

The size of the machine determines if it can fit the workspace you have.

Big companies need large and automatic pressure sensitive labelers.

· Technical Specifications

This information will enable one to identify the capabilities of the pressure sensitive labeler.

Ensure the industry can sustain the power consumption of the machine.

· Construction of Machine

The design of the machine does not have to be only aesthetic.

It is necessary to choose a machine whose design enhances the efficiency of the machine.

· Integration with Other Machines

Some pressure sensitive labeler can work with other support equipment in the production line.

These support equipment include filling or packing machines.

· Ease of Use

A pressure sensitive labeler that is easy to use enables your personnel to operate the machine without much training.

Also, it enables one to monitor and set parameters during the pressure labeling process.

· Manufacturer

Some manufacturers have a good reputation when it comes to manufacturing pressure sensitive labelers.

They have years of experience and manufacture the machine with the latest designs and capabilities.

· Maintenance

Choose a pressure sensitive labeler that is easy and affordable to maintain.

Good maintenance practices will enable the machine to operate optimally and meet your production needs.

· Budget

The amount you have will dictate the pressure sensitive labeler you can afford.

Ensure that you do not compromise on quality despite the budget you have.

· Quality Standards

To safeguard your personnel and business, purchase a pressure sensitive labeler that conforms to international standards.

Such standards include:

· Restriction of Hazardous Substances [RoHS]

The purpose of this standard is to reduce environmental effects and health impacts.

· The China Compulsory Certificate mark [CCC]

This is a mandatory safety mark for pressure sensitive labelers that are imported, sold, and, and used in Chinese environments.

· European Union CE marking

All companies in the world accept this quality standard even though it applies to European Economic Areas.

· Good Manufacturing Practice [GMP]

Good Manufacturing Practice quality standard ensures that a pressure sensitive labeler has:

1. Consistent manufacturing practices.
2. The machine conforms to international quality standards.
3. Produces reliable and quality pressure labels.

What Support Equipment can you Integrate with a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

Pressure sensitive labelers can work with other support equipment in the production line.

This makes it possible to streamline the production process within one workspace.

These support equipment include:

• Filling machines
• Capping machines
• Packaging machines
• Unscrambling machines
• Counting machines

What are the Parts of a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

A pressure sensitive labeler consists of the following parts:

· Product Handling System

It will place the product consistently at the right speed in position for the label applicator to apply the label.

· Labeling Head

This is the component that will apply the pressure label.

It serves as a system that unwinds and rewinds the label material.

· Rewind Assembly

This is a slave of the chain or timing belt from the web drive motor.

A slip clutch will maintain constant tension on the web for it not to break.

· Label Sensors

On the peeler bar, you can also find the label sensor.

It will sense the label that the machine is applying.

· Peeler Bar

This part will separate the label from the liner or backing web.

When the label separates from the liner, it will go on the product’s surface of the label applicator.

· Label Applicator

The function is to place the label accurately on the surface of the product at the right speed.

· Web Drive

This roller assembly will push and pull the wen via the labeling head.

It works with the nip roller to ensure the web is engaged.

· Unwind System

It is the place where you will mount the roll.

· Product Sensor

This part will detect the product before placing the pressure sensitive labeler on its surface.

How does a Pressure Sensitive Labeler Work?

Here is how a pressure sensitive labeler works:

Preparation Stage

In this stage, make sure the machine is on, and all parts are working well.

Place the pressure sensitive labels on the machine and ensure the containers are present.

A vibration mechanism will feed items to the conveyor system.

The machine will synchronize the speed of pressure sensitive labels to the products that you are labeling.

Labeling Stage

The products move to the labeling station via a conveyor system.

Since the speed of labels and products aligns, the machine will correctly apply the labels.

Application of labels happens as the products reach the labeling head.

Final Stage

After labeling, the products will leave the machine ready for the next phase.

Sensors will evaluate if the labels meet the set standard before accepting or rejecting the products.

What is a Label Stock?

Label stock is a carrier on which one side has an adhesive and the other side has the print works.

What are the Types of Label Stocks that a Pressure Sensitive Labeler can use?

There are different types of label stocks that a pressure sensitive labeler can use.

This part can be:

· Plastic

These include acetate, PET film, or vinyl.

They have features such as stiffness, transparency, great strength, and resistance to tear.

It requires special printing methods and equipment to make these label sticks.

· Paper

The machine can use different types of paper and paperboards as labels.

· Foil

These include aluminum foil and vapor-coated plastic films and are common due to their bright reflective nature.

· Non-woven Fabric

They are unique label stocks that provide extra durability.

· Latex

When you add latex to a lithographic stock, it becomes flexible.

This means you can easily form it around round products than standard papers.

· Thermal Label Stock

These labels change color when you apply heat.

The heating element has the image and text of the label.

• Other

Printing labels on an adhesive without a substrate is possible.

These labels are fragile and are otherwise obsolete.

What are the Benefits of using a Pressure Sensitive Labels?

Here are some of the benefits of pressure sensitive labels:

· Time-saving

These labels are easy to make and have faster production and application speed.

· Long-lasting

These labels have outstanding durability, thus many beverage industries use them.

They are resistant to deterioration when you expose them to environmental elements.

Also, they provide a strong bond to the surface of products.

· Cost-effective

The cost of labeling is lower than when using cold glue labeling.

Pressure sensitive labelers can cost half as much, and one can also apply labels manually.

· Ease of Application

Application is easy as one can do it manually or by a simple pressure sensitive labeler.

Also, it requires no water, solvent, or heat to activate the adhesive.

Simply peel off the protective backing liner and apply slight pressure to make it stick.

· Versatility

Many surfaces, with different shapes and sizes, can use pressure sensitive labels.

Customization of these labels is possible to meet your specific needs.

· Shelf Appeal

Using this label with quality eye-catching designs will boost the product’s shelf appeal.

What are the Categories of a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

Here are the categories of a pressure-sensitive labeler:

Stand-alone Pressure Sensitive Labeler

It will use a labeler that has a product handling mechanism that exists or is provided by others.

Some advantages include:

1. It is easy to install and very flexible.
2. Occupies less floor space.

Its disadvantages are:

1. Longer changeover time.
2. It will not maintain product control.
3. Guarantees label delivery accuracy and not application accuracy.

Product Handling Pressure Sensitive Labeler

It fully integrates the labeling head into the product handling system.

The application can be in either in-line operation or off-line operation mode.

The advantages include:

1. Guarantees accuracy of product placement.
2. Easy changeover.
3. One source control for label and product control.

Some disadvantages include:

1. Costlier than a stand-alone system.
2. Occupies a large floor space.

Semi-automatic Pressure Sensitive Labeler

The operator will manually place products in the jigsaw assembly.

A photoelectric sensor or foot pedal will assist in applying the labels.

Its advantages include:

1. Accurate and fast that hand labeling.
2. Highly portable.
3. It is cost-effective.
4. Ensures accuracy when applying labels.

The disadvantage is that it is slower than a fully automatic machine.

What are the Basic Application Types that a Pressure Sensitive Labeler can apply?

There are two application types:

Pressure sensitive labeler component

Apply Only

This will use a pre-printed label on the automatic machine.

Some of its purposes include:

1. Promotional labeling
2. The main decoration of products
3. Product display
4. Tamper-proof seal
5. Theft security

Print and Apply

Printing of labels happens within the pressure-sensitive labeler.

The purpose of print and apply include:

1. Package tracking and identification
2. Main decoration
3. Variable printed information
4. Label stockpile reduction

How long does it Take a Pressure Sensitive Label to dry?

A pressure-sensitive label dries almost immediately since it requires no heat, or solvent to activate the adhesive.

Once you apply pressure on the label, it sticks immediately.

How do you Choose the Right Pressure Sensitive Label Tape?

These tapes use various adhesives with different chemical compositions that all have unique advantages.

Three common adhesives you can use with a pressure-sensitive adhesive include:

· Acrylic Adhesive

Acrylic polymers form the base of this adhesive.

They can withstand high temperatures, unlike rubber adhesives.

It forms strong bonds and has a high resistance to solvents and environmental elements.

· Rubber Adhesive

This adhesive is available in natural or synthetic options.

Additional compounds such as oils, antioxidants, and tackifying resins, can enhance their adhesive strength.

Besides, they are affordable but cannot handle high temperatures.

Silicone Adhesive

These adhesives have silicone polymers.

Their special formulations enable them to adequately bond on silicon-based substrates.

They can withstand higher temperatures than rubber and acrylic adhesives.

Also, they have lower initial tack capabilities and are expensive.

How can you Differentiate a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive for Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

Various factors can differentiate pressure-sensitive adhesives:

· Adhesive Base

Rubber and acrylic are the two bases that make pressure-sensitive labels.

Rubber lasts for long while acrylic is temperature resistant.

· Coating Technology

There are three liner options for pressure-sensitive labels:

1. Hot Melt Application

These are cheap solutions for coating rubber-based adhesives in a molten state.

2. Emulsion Technology

It coats acrylic-based adhesives as it suspends adhesives in water before emulsifying them on the liner.

3. Solvent Coating Technology

This option is suitable for rubber and acrylic materials.

It may have environmental costs even though it is clear and has good performance.

• Removable or Permanent

Permanent pressure-sensitive adhesives are cheap and stick for good once you apply them on a surface.

Removable pressure-sensitive adhesives enable you to reapply them if crooked or when you want to peel-away a promotional item.

What is the Difference Between a Permanent and Removable Pressure Sensitive Label?

Permanent pressure-sensitive labels stick for good once you apply them on products.

With removable pressure sensitive labels, you can reapply them or peel the cover.

What is the Difference Between Print and Apply Verses Apply and Print?

Print and apply applies images and texts on the labels before applying them on the surface of products.

Apply and print labels are those that you will apply on products then the machine will print text and images on it.

What are the Types of Label Applicators that a Pressure Sensitive Applicator can use?

Label applicators are responsible for delivering labels on the products.

Here are the types of label applicators:

· Blow-on

It will use a strong blast of air to apply labels on the surface of products.

· Roll-on/ Wipe-on

This applicator can use a brush or roller to apply the label on the product.

· Air Cylinder Tamp

It applies labels on the products by using a combination of air cylinders and vacuum pads.

· Air Cylinder Wipe-on/ Roll-on

A hybrid of air cylinder tamps and vacuum grid wipe-on.

· Vacuum Grid Wipe-on/ Roll-on

A spring-loaded vacuum grid peels the label and applies it by wiping or rolling it on products.

· Custom

It is possible to make an applicator that meets specific products and product handling systems.

What should you Consider when Selecting the Correct Applicator to Use in a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

Here are the criteria for selecting the correct type of applicator:

Pressure sensitive labeler

· Label Location

Will the label go on the top, side, or bottom of the products?

· Product Profile

Is the surface of the product flat, convex, concave, etc.

· Label Material

Consider is the label will be of paper, film, etc.

· Application Rate

Measurements happen in products per minute.

· Size of Labels

The length, width, and shape of the label are worth considering.

· Accuracy Needs

Consider the applicable tolerance for placing labels.

What Types of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Types can a Pressure Sensitive Labeler apply?

Here are the common types of adhesives it can apply:

• Frost fix
• High tack
• Peelable
• Ultra-peelable
• permanent

What Types of Detectors can a Pressure-sensitive labeler use in the Production Process?

Detectors will detect products and conduct verification:

• Infrared Thru-Beam Detectors
• Fiber Optic Detectors
• Mechanical Contact Detectors
• Convergent Detectors
• Diffuse Beam Detectors
• Retro-Reflective Detectors

How can a Pressure Sensitive Labeler Boost your Business?

The ways a pressure sensitive labeler will boost your business include:

• Ensure quality label application.
• Increase the label application rate.
• Lower recurring costs.
• Meet client needs.

What is the Cost of a Pressure Sensitive Labeler?

Depending on the features, the machine will cost anywhere between 1500 and 100000 US Dollars.

What are the Details of Pressure Sensitive Label?

The details that should be on a label include:

• Nutritional content
• Allergens
• Net weight
• Batch number
• Manufacture and expiry date
• Name, address, and location of the manufacturer
• Content description
• Ingredients
• Storage instructions

What is the Best Pressure Sensitive Material?

The best material depends on the type of product and environmental elements that the label will encounter.

Some materials are affordable than others, while others will last longer.

Also, some materials are better on specific surfaces than others.

Which is a Better Option Between Pressure Sensitive Labels and Self-adhesive Labels?

A pressure-sensitive label is also known as a self-adhesive label thus they are both better labeling options.

At SaintyCo, we offer a range of pressure-sensitive labelers depending on your unique applications and requirements.

Contact us now for all your pressure sensitive labeler needs.