Automatic Sleeve Labeling Machine

Automatic Sleeve Labeling Machine – Introduction

An automatic sleeve labeling machine is a packaging device that automatically applies tubular film labels (shrink sleeves) onto bottles, cans, or other containers. After the sleeve is applied, the containers typically pass through a heat shrink tunnel (hot air or steam system), where the label shrinks evenly and conforms tightly to the container surface.

Working Principle:

Tubular film labels are mounted on an unwinding shaft in roll form and guided into the sleeve applicator. The applicator expands the flattened tube into a cylindrical shape and cuts the label into sections of a preset length. The cut label section slides downward by gravity or with the assistance of air flow and drops onto the container passing below. The container with the applied sleeve then enters a heat shrink device, where the label shrinks and closely fits the container contour.

Key Features:

• Relatively high application speed: Suitable for high-speed continuous production lines. Single-lane speeds typically range from 100 to 400 containers per minute, depending on the model.

• Compatibility with various container shapes: Can handle round, square, oval, and irregularly shaped containers, with the label shrinking to match the container contour.

• Good label conformity: After shrinking, the label fits tightly around the container, enabling full 360-degree coverage or decorative and informational printing on specific areas.

• Material cost consideration: Tubular film sleeves may offer certain cost advantages compared to self-adhesive labels.

• Changeover with moderate adjustments: By changing or adjusting sleeve applicator parts, the machine can accommodate containers of different diameters and heights.

Applicable Label Materials:

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride) shrink sleeves

• PET (polyester) shrink sleeves

• OPS (oriented polystyrene) shrink sleeves

• PLA (polylactic acid) biodegradable shrink sleeves

Typical Applications:

• Beverage industry: full-body labels on water bottles, carbonated soft drink bottles, and juice bottles

• Dairy industry: sleeves on yogurt cups and dairy drink bottles

• Condiment industry: labels on soy sauce bottles, vinegar bottles, and cooking oil bottles

• Daily chemical industry: sleeves on liquid detergent jugs, shampoo bottles, and cleaner bottles

• Pharmaceutical industry: labels on oral liquid bottles and spray cans

Common Supporting Equipment:

• Heat shrink tunnel (electric heating or steam type)

• Steam shrink unit (suitable for heat-sensitive products)

• Container alignment and spacing device