UK automated packaging equipment supplier Sewtec Automation has introduced a special machine to apply tamper-evident labels to both single and multipack cartons for pharmaceutical products. The system can also be adapted for case trace applications, using 2D codes.
The new Sewtec LX5194 labelling system can handle a variety of pack sizes up to 67 x 85mm with a throughput of 3,200 single and 800 multipacks an hour.
Camera vision systems ensure the correct and accurate placement of labels on both the top and base of the packs. An advanced control unit, with preset memory functions, allows the call-up of individual settings for different pack sizes, and changeovers can be carried out in less than five minutes.
The LX5194 handles both single and multipack cartons, achieved by diverting single cartons into a separate lane where they are rotated 90° and gathered into groups of four. This gives them similar overall dimensions to the multipacks and allows them to proceed through the rest of the labelling process.
Packs move through a series of stations in the machine via indexing conveyors. At the first stage, two cameras check that the packs are correctly orientated to receive the labels. As the artwork can be similar on both sides of the packs, one of the cameras is dedicated to identifying the gap where the lid of the box folds into the side to check that the pack is presented the right side up for labelling.
Labels are applied to the top and bottom of the boxes at the next two stations, with a further vision system used to ensure correct placement. The label is designed to completely disintegrate on removal so a vacuum system ejects it onto a pad for subsequent placement onto the pack, to ensure careful application.
A tamp roller station wipes down the top face of the label to create a wrap around effect across the top and side of both the single and multipack cartons. During the cross push onto the exit conveyor a brush similarly wipes the bottom label of the single packs into place.
The packing station receives cartons in two rows simultaneously to allow faster placement into outer cases for onward despatch.
Rejected packs are passed through the system to a reject bin for reworking. A special monitoring system ensures that the packs have cleared the machine in order to maintain full production data as part of validation requirements for pharmaceutical products.