Packaging
The Model 5300 Label Printer-Applicators
Thursday 01. May 2008 - High-resolution printing and high-speed operation combined with a diverse selection of label application methods.
Modular design provides six different application configurations
Monitor operation via a web browser
One-to-one media consumption reduces downtime
Capable of interfacing with external PLCs
Available with RFID capability
Webers Model 5300 system is redefining the meaning of versatility in pressure-sensitive label printing and application.
In addition to offering a broad selection of high-quality print engines that feature various print resolutions and label dispensing rates, the Model 5300 system is available with optional RFID print-encode engines.
Standard direct- and thermal-transfer print engines from manufacturers Zebra, Sato and others produce text, bar codes and graphic images at 203- or 300-dpi. The Zebra-based RFID models combine these printing capabilities with the encoding and verification of RFID inlays to meet EPC Gen 2 protocols.
The Model 5300 systems print engines output labels up to seven inches wide and up to six inches long. To keep pace with high-volume, high-speed production lines, compatible print speeds vary from five to 16 ips.
Modular Design
The Model 5300 printer-applicator systems modular design provides one standard system, yet a choice of six distinct methods of label application that are accurate to ±0.03 inch:
Tamp-blow. This is a very popular method of air-assisted label placement used with standard applications, and is particularly useful in the labeling of recessed areas. A printed label is fed onto a tamp pad and held by vacuum, a pneumatic cylinder extends to within .25 inch of the product, and the label is blown onto its surface.
Air-blow. Another air-assisted process. The label is blown onto the product from a fixed distance without the aid of a pneumatic cylinder.
Direct tamp. This method is similar to tamp-blow, but the flexible tamp pad makes direct contact with the product during application.
Swing-tamp. Labels are applied to the front or back of a product using a 90-degree swing arm applicator and tamp-blow technology.
Twin-tamp. Special rotary arm enables the application of two labels to the front and side of a product; or its side and back; or one label can be placed on the front, side or back of an item using tamp-blow technology.
Corner-wrap. One label is wrapped around the corner of a case using an articulating, contact method of application.
In addition, an optional secondary label wipe-down station is available as a complement to any of the above application methods. Quick-change tamp pads also may be ordered to accommodate various label sizes.
The Model 5300 systems modular design ensures that the system can be reconfigured to address subsequent print-and-apply labeling requirements. This modularity can preclude the future acquisition of an additional printer-applicator.
Special Features & Options
The Model 5300 system includes a number of noteworthy features that add to the operational versatility of this printer-applicator:
Browser-based monitoring. The status of all operational functions and configurations can be monitored by logging on to a web page that is unique to each Model 5300 unit.
PLC connectivity. The system can be interfaced with many types of external PLCs, including Allen Bradley and Siemens.
One-to-one media consumption. Special label unwind and rewind dimensions are matched to the systems ribbon supply to ensure they are consumed at the same rate, reducing downtime and eliminating partial changeovers.
Print job storage. Multiple label printing formats can be stored in the systems memory, making it easier for an operator to select a job directly from the applicator instead of downloading a computer file.
The Model 5300 system boasts numerous additional features as well, including an microprocessor controller with downloadable firmware capability, various inputs/outputs, plus durable construction that will withstand harsh industrial environments.
There also are several optional enhancements that can increase the systems functionality. A product height sensor, for example, enables the printer-applicator to label items of varying heights delivered by the same conveyor.
Other options include a 15-foot umbilical connection that enables the remote location of the units controller; an adjustable stand for optimum system orientation; label-on-pad sensor; plus beacon light alerts to signal the status of label and ribbon supplies.
Labels & Ribbons
Weber manufactures a complete line of pressure-sensitive and RFID smart label materials that are compatible with a diverse range of labeling applications, and compliant with various industry standards and specifications.
Custom-designed labels can be preprinted with permanent information and graphics in up to 10 colors, with areas on the labels reserved for the variable data added by the systems print engine. In addition, Weber offers blank labels in numerous stock sizes.
Weber also provides a selection of thermal-transfer printer ribbons that are perfectly matched to our label materials and optimized for print-apply applications.
Versatile Software
Webers exclusive Legitonic labeling software makes the operation of all Model 5300 systems easy. This Windows-based package simplifies label design, editing and printing, as well as RFID encoding.