The Skanem Blog India

3 ways to enhance productivity with an automated labelling machine

Written by Siddhartha Gijare & Ishwar Hasnale | 13 Jun, 2023 6:00:00 AM

An efficient labelling machine should be versatile and facilitate a smoother production process. It should also optimize the use of label materials to minimize waste and enhance your labelled products. Achieving this level of efficiency isn’t always possible with a traditional machine. You can save valuable time and effort during production by exchanging it for a modern, automated machine.

If you’ve ever used a traditional labelling machine, you might know that productivity is one of the most common challenges. These machines require frequent label roll changeovers and wastepaper removal, often leading to a 10-15 per cent productivity loss. This is especially ineffective during shorter runs.

One solution for improving productivity is with a label splicing unit, which enables label roll joining without stopping the machine. However, opting for a fully automated 4-head labelling machine offers other benefits besides productivity enhancement. 

Functionalities of 4-head labelling machines

The four heads on the labelling machine can be designed and programmed to work independently of each other or simultaneously for:

  • Single label application (Front)
  • Double label application (Front-Back)
  • Three-label application (Front, Back, and Shoulder/Neck)
  • Four-label application (Front, Back, Shoulder/Neck, and Foot)

Using this type of labelling machine offers three distinct advantages:

1. Increases productivity and efficiency

Because all four labelling heads can be run independently, the machine can operate continuously. An automatic switchover to other labelling heads occurs once a label roll is empty.

This gives the machine operator enough time to load a new roll without turning off the machine, preparing it for the next operation cycle.

Read more: How to choose the right label applicator machine

2. Simplifies short-run batch cycles

In cases where you only need to label a small batch, the machine can still operate non-stop. It is also possible to programme the machine to automatically switch to another labelling head when the required number of products are labelled. The switchover can be random and does not necessarily need to occur in sequence.

With a traditional machine, you must first turn the machine off and perform roll changeovers multiple times during short-run batch cycles. Needless to say, this consumes a lot of valuable production time and prolongs lead time.

3. Enables multiple label application

The machine can be programmed so that up to four different types of labels can be applied simultaneously. As a brand owner, this function gives you a broad set of labelling options without prolonging the time it takes to label the products.

Read more: Sustainable manufacturing: Optimizing material and energy consumption

As an experienced label manufacturer, we can answer any questions you have about optimizing production with 4-head labelling machines here at Skanem India. You are welcome to contact us – our team are ready to assist you with all your machine or label-related needs.