Introduction
Manufacturers choose between manual and automatic label applicators depending on the volume of product on hand. Manual labeling is an option when production volumes are small. It takes nearly a minute to manually glue one pre-printed or on-site printing label. Therefore, when bulk quantities are to be packaged labeling solutions have to be more productive. The options available in this category are semi-automatic labeling machines and full-automatic labeling machines. Automated label applicators reduce costs, increase productivity, and consistent quality. Here is an in-depth look at why an automatic label applicator is an ideal solution over manual options.
Reasons why automatic label applicators are better than manual machines
Manufacturers need solutions that improve productivity but are safe and secure to use. In the case of label applicator machines, an automatic version is a viable alternative. It increases production by ironing out bottlenecks in the labeling process. Although many assume that automated machines are expensive, the benefits exceed the investment. The main objective of automation is to increase the scale of production level. Secondly, the overall cost of labeling is reduced because of the capability of the machine to increase the output. Moreover, managers find better quality and consistency with automated label applicators. Besides, the production process itself is simplified and easier to manage when automated label applicators are installed.
The following are the reasons why automated label applicators are beneficial to businesses over manual applications.
- Accurate and error-free
One of the managerial problems of manual label applicators problems is human error. During the labeling process, a laborer may misplace a label or use less pressure resulting in the label peeling away easily. Secondly, an error in the container’s position leads to wrong labeling. Laying it in the wrong direction is another error. When the number of labels on the product increase, the errors also increase by the same proportion. Sometimes errors in expiry dates or barcode labels could lead to penalties.
- The easiest solution to overcome human errors is automating the process.
An advantage of using automated machines is the increase in the rate of production. In the case of manual applicators, the staff needs short breaks and rest. These increase the costs of production. The solution to this problem is the automatic labeling system. Hence the advantage of using automated solutions is to optimize production, reduce speed and ensure accurate labeling.
- Speed
The advantage of adopting an automatic labeler is that it works at twice the speed of a manual label applicator. Hence the number of people working in the labeling unit reduces while production speed improves simultaneously. Depending on the volumes the manufacturer handles, it is easier to scale the production without facing the bottlenecks of labeling.
- Supports improved designing of the labeling process
Another advantage of automation is configuring label applicator to match the design. Hence automated applicators can easily apply wrap-around labels to standard bottle sizes. It can even be custom designed for irregular or non-standard containers or bottles. The machines are also better at handling the weight of products which was a problem for manual label applicators. The label applicators can be customized to apply multiple labels on the same product. For example, wine bottles have vertical labels on the front, back, and even the neck of the bottle.
Hence, the number of options for labeling and labeling accuracy is more with automated label machines. Powering businesses with the latest industrial technology is a strategic decision. Choosing between manual labeling and investing in an expensive automatic labeling machine is formidable for every company. Automated label applicators have an advantage over conventional labeling processes since they are long-lasting, low-maintenance, and accelerate production multiple times over manual labeling.
