Labeling or direct printing - that is the question here

The following questions should be asked and answered: Is the marking only needed for internal logistics or does it also have to meet the special requirements of external partners and customers? In addition to the print definition, the required flexibility and speed as well as the operating costs form an important basis for the decision.

Not a question of size

A Legi-Air label printing dispenser from Bluhm Systeme can print labels of variable heights and widths of up to 180 millimetres with variable data. This is ideal for logistics labeling. However, it may also be worth considering an inkjet printer. Bluhm's Markoprint inkjet printers with piezo technology are variable in terms of print width and can also achieve a print height of 800 millimetres. A big plus point: the operating and printing costs for inkjet printers are considerably lower than for labelers. Inkjet printers also outperform label printers, which reach speeds of up to 1,000 mm/sec, compared to 400 mm/sec.

"It's worth asking whether a flexible labeler is needed at all"

Labeling only for internal or also for external?

For internal logistics labels, the requirements for the visual appearance of the print may not be so high, legibility is the focus - but as soon as external partners or customers request the information, you have to be guided by their specifications. These must be checked in advance. Retail groups often demand A grading from their suppliers for their prints. The A to F rating refers to the legibility of codes according to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). A stands for "very good". No problem for the label print dispensers. They print with a resolution of up to 600 dpi. A thermal transfer print on the label material is razor-sharp and very high-contrast on white label material. In individual cases, it must be checked whether the cardboard quality and color of the cardboard allows for an equally brilliant print image with ink.

Labeler flexible in any installation position

Printing or gluing - the best way to find out what makes more sense and when is to talk to experts. Photo: Bluhm Systeme

On which sides must the carton be labeled? What are the space requirements? Do the box format and material vary? If the same cartons always need to be labeled, the Markoprint large character printer can be the ideal solution. However, the print head must be installed very close to the carton surface. The inkjet printer proves to be flexible if the print field varies (format change) or the font size needs to be changed during printing.

Compared to the large character printers, the Legi-Air labelers are adaptability artists. Their modular design enables numerous applications: The stamp plate can be moved and exchanged variably. Labels can be applied from all sides, including from above and below. "Around the corner" is also no problem. While the large character printers are only suitable for absorbent materials and straight surfaces, the Legi-Air label printing dispensers reliably label various packaging surfaces and materials. The labelers also cover greater distances to the product: the dispensing stroke is variable and the label is inflated.

Conclusion

With every new labeling task, it is worth asking whether a flexible labeler is needed or whether a cost-saving inkjet printer can also do the job perfectly. As there are many parameters to consider, it makes sense to have an expert carry out a detailed inventory.

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