NEW PALS PRINT IN MOTION LABELLING HEAD
DOUBLES OUTPUT

Our new labelling head can revolutionise print and apply labelling techniques by allowing packaging companies to double the throughput of their labelling systems. Developed by PALS Labelling the new high speed machine eliminates the need to print labels in the dwell between packs, thereby enabling pack spacing to be minimised and output to be increased without affecting overall line speeds or other operating conditions.

When moving head printers were first introduced some 15 years ago, the restriction on throughput was print speed. Despite the significant advances that have since been achieved, the delay caused by the need to print in the dwell between labels has always remained. This has effectively been the determining factor for line output and can also cause problems if packs arrive too close together, resulting in at best a missing print or at worst a web break with subsequent disruption to production.

Called the GPX, the new machine incorporates a thermal transfer printer mounted on a PALS 50 Series label applicator. By developing the integration between the two units and by capitalising on the functionality of the servo motor and PLC controlled 50HSH labelling head, PALS has been able to present data in real time to the print system. The printer logic then responds to the start up and run speeds of the labeller, yet still maintains the capacity to print to within 1 mm from the start or end of a label and to synchronise print quality at speeds of to speeds 40 metres per minute.

PALS’ Director of Sales, Simon Stuttard, explains that, “We have developed the new GPX system following requests from our customers in the food sector. They typically use the 50HSH labelling machine with a variety of thermal transfer print systems and are encountering problems of line stoppages due to packs passing too close together on the conveyors. Despite attempts to impose line discipline, some packs will arrive adjacent to each other, with the inevitable consequences.

Our new system overcomes these problems and when linked to our existing multi-head machines with auto-changeover can lead to significant improvements in productivity. Potentially, these can be as much as one hundred per cent. Perhaps as importantly, this can be achieved at a relatively low level of capital investment and with little or no impact on existing line equipment.”

The new GPX system can be fitted to all new PALS 50HSH machines and be retro-fitted to existing units on site. PALS also provides full technical and applications support.