Labeling machine

What is a labeling machine?

A labeling machine is a type of machine used to apply labels to packaging or products.

In addition to applying labels, some labeling machines are capable of producing them.

What types of labeling machines are there?

Labeling machines can be classified according to their technical capabilities or to the way they apply labels.

In terms of their technical capabilities, labeling machines can be divided into:

• Label dispensers, which only apply labels to packaging and products. The labels applied by the label dispensers are previously printed by another machine and loaded into the dispenser.
• Label printers and dispensers, which not only apply labels, but also produce them. In reality, a label printer and dispenser is nothing more than the combination of a label printer and a label dispenser into one machine.

In terms of the way they apply labels, labeling machines can be divided into:

• Label printers, which are used to print the labels. The labels are created with the help of a computer and a label software. Once they have been created, the computer sends the labels to the label printer, which then prints them.
• Drop-on-demand inkjet printers, which directly print the labels on the packaging or products. Unlike label printers, drop-on-demand inkjet printers apply ink on the surface of an item, leaving a permanent mark on it. As a result, there is no need to first manufacture the labels and then apply them. Both procedures can, in this sense, be done at once.
• Laser markers, which mark items or products with the help of a laser beam. Similar to drop-on-demand inkjet printers, laser markers make it unnecessary to print labels.

How does a labeling machine work?

The way a labeling machine works depends on its technical capabilities. In this sense, labeling machines that can print and apply labels function differently than those which can only apply labels.

In addition, not all labeling machines apply labels the same way. Some machines can print labels on label paper, while others can directly mark items or products using ink or a laser beam.