Pharmaceutical industry demands for packaging equipment continue to expand. Not surprisingly, packaging suppliers are addressing those demands. At Pack Expo on Sunday, Krones displayed its Autocol 720-18 Sleevematic labeler. It is equipped with several features to meet the needs of companies such as its customer Novartis Pharmaceutical.
Billed as a compact, modular machine, the labeler includes a retractable peeler plate that prevents labels failing inspection on the web from being applied to a bottle. These labels are identified on Krones’ Checkmat vision system. Unlike some labelers, the Sleevematic is equipped with an Autosplicing system that automatically transfers the spent reel of labels and replaces it with a new, full label reel, replacing potential downtime.
The machine allows for serialization, utilizing a Domino laser coder. Machine functions are controlled by Danfoss sensors.
The Sleevematic accommodates round, square, and rectangular bottles (see photo). The machine shown at Krones booth used pressure-sensitive film labels supplied by H.S. Crocker and outserts provided by Gooding Co.
