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11/13/2012

KHS provides new, platform-based labeling technology

With its new, modular platform for labeling technology KHS now has a whole range of benefits in store for the beverage, food, and non-food industries. The redeveloped technical system is geared entirely towards the individual requirements of the companies that use it. They can opt for the use of one single labeling process per machine – or combine a number of different processes if required, these being cold glue, self-adhesive, hot melt, and roll-fed labeling. The basic machine of the platform consists of a carousel and front table, thus doing away with the classic table construction. This gives operators excellent access to the labeling technology and a good view of the labeling process. There are a total of six pitch and two front table variants in the program which can be selected according to labeling requirements. Capacities range from 10,000 to 74,000 containers per hour, with glass and plastic containers, cans, cylindrical and contour containers all processible. Filling volumes may vary between 0.1 and 3 liters. Modular design and particularly the use of bidirectional parts enable KHS to prefabricate various components which can then be combined to match the specifics of a particular job. "Assemble to order" is the motto here, giving customers the clear advantage of especially short delivery times for their designated labeler. The new system no longer has a stopping device in front of the feed screw. Should the need arise, the servo-controlled feed screw itself halts the flow of containers and restarts it in the direction of the infeed star. The advantage of this is that sensitive containers are handled with extreme care; the smaller number of format parts also boosts the ease of operation and machine efficiency. In the development of the module-based platform widespread customer demands for fast format part changeovers were taken into consideration. All format parts in this system can therefore be replaced without tools by means of quick-release devices. Both the infeed and discharge stars are made of polyurethane, making them light and easy to carry. All stations on the modular platform, with the exception of the self-adhesive labeling stations, are mounted on a standardized base on the carousel. As an option, the base can be height adjustable. This has the advantage that within a defined range the labeling units can be moved up or down at the push of a button. Format parts thus no longer have to be changed where labels of the same size are applied at different heights. Customers do not have to invest in additional format parts, and machine efficiency is increased. The new generation of labelers also allows for different forms of container plate rotation. Belt drive, mechanically controlled cam rotation, and VarioDrive are all feasible. KHS always provides advice on the basis of the given specifications as to the best control option. If maximum flexibility is required, the electronic VarioDrive bottle turret control system is usually recommended. This permits up to 64 different labeling programs to be implemented, and in conjunction with a camera system ensures that labeling material is applied precisely where it should be – such as in a defined bottle recess. With the new labeling platform empty plastic containers can now be easily labeled. To make them stable enough, once these containers have been centered on the labeling carousel, they are injected with sterile air through a valve which is located inside the centering bell. This sterile air is introduced through the center shaft. Air inflow through control discs is now a thing of the past – and wear is also no longer an issue. All of these new labelers are preinstalled at the KHS factory and subjected to intensive testing. Once delivered, the machinery is then quick to install and commission on site. All told, besides the aforementioned flexibility and individuality the new concept gives customers high process quality, reliability, and ease of operation. The compact design of the labeling equipment also saves space. The result is perfect labeling quality – and a stash of eye-catching containers at the point of sale.