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This fifth-generation AUTOCOLT labels square, rectangular and round bottles at speeds up to 300 containers per minute, applying a variety of label configurations including wraparound, multi-panel and optional outserts. The 326 AUTOCOLT IV achieves accurate, high-speed labeling while offering the ultimate in versatility.
The new 326 AUTOCOLT IV handles containers from 1 to 14 inches (25 to 355 mm) in height and from 1 to 5 inches (25 to 127 mm) in diameter. It can be equipped for optional e-pedigree serialization, RFID tagging and other track & trace initiatives, making it ideal for pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, biotech and veterinary products as well as foods, personal care products and household chemicals.
Compared to the previous generation AUTOCOLT labeler, the new AUTOCOLT IV features a new control system. NJM replaced mechanical functions with servo motors and swapped DC motors for AC motors to maximize performance accuracy and minimize maintenance. Allen-Bradley servo drives are managed by an Allen-Bradley programmable automation controller that easily connects with other system components via the EtherNet/IP network.
Like earlier AUTOCOLT labelers, the AUTOCOLT IV is built from heavy-duty stainless steel and anodized aluminum with rugged, high-quality components to offer extreme durability and long equipment life. Its cabinet-style base features an electrical enclosure on a pull-out drawer to ease access for maintenance. This enclosure features a new base plate, which minimizes dust in the electrical cabinet and allows the labeler to be picked up with a forklift, if needed.
The high speed of the AUTOCOLT IV enables it to compete in the market with rotary labelers. Compared to rotary labelers, the in-line AUTOCOLT IV reduces maintenance and offers a lower capital cost and much smaller footprint. It allows labels to be applied to the front and back of the container, and it achieves faster changeovers with fewer change parts. The AUTOCOLT IV can be changed over to handle a new container size and new label size in less than 20 minutes with no tools required.
NJM can equip the AUTOCOLT IV with a wide variety of options to meet the needs of each customer. The labeler accommodates continuous and intermittent inkjet, thermal transfer and laser printers to print variable data such as date, lot code and serialization onto the pre-printed pressure sensitive label material during labeling. The AUTOCOLT IV can be equipped with a vision system and reject system to automatically remove containers with faulty labels from the production line. An option to identify and redirect bad labels prior to applying the label to the product is also available to minimize rework. For small containers, the optional trunnion system achieves positive container handling that maximizes speeds and label placement accuracy.
For customers looking to apply outserts, NJM can equip the AUTOCOLT IV with its Model 277 SIDESERT applicator or integrate it with the Model 277 TOPSERT. Both AUTOSERT™ systems feature a rotating three-arm pick-and-place system and hot melt glue adhesion to secure even the thickest pieces of folded literature such as double and triple outserts, with a high degree of accuracy at very high speeds. If sideserts need to be applied to round containers, NJM can equip the AUTOCOLT IV with its new servo-driven orienting wrap belt to assure the sidesert is placed on the container between the leading and trailing edges of the primary label.
The 326 AUTOCOLT IV features a 10-inch Allen-Bradley color touchscreen that offers an intuitive user interface that eases operation and minimizes operator training.
NJM offers a “total solution” approach that includes full validation support and turnkey line integration services to seamlessly combine best-in-class technologies, as needed.
