Labelling solution features high technology

The new SL 90, the latest Sidel machine for self-adhesive or cold-glue labels, is particularly suitable for labelling sensitive products, such as beer

THERE is a growing market demand for a single labeller capable of various applications, often even combining them to label the same container. This is the case, for example, with beer bottles that have paper neck labels and self-adhesive body labels. The latest machine for self-adhesive and cold-glue labels, the SL 90, which will soon also be available with the other modules (e.g. a roll-fed module), is an innovative solution developed by Sidel to offer the greatest labelling flexibility on all kinds of packaging, both round and irregularly shaped, with fast changeover times and great freedom in layout design.

The new rotary modular labeller is equipped with modules for applying pressure-sensitive self-adhesive labels or cold-glue labels on all kinds of packaging. But it also has much more than the typical advantages of a modular machine: the maintenance levels are dramatically low thanks to the total elimination of mechanical gears and transmissions.

What makes the SL 90 such a unique machine on the market is its core: the carousel and the parts involved in transferring the containers (starwheels and screw feed), which have no gears and no contact. The highly innovative aspect lies in the fact that the drive requires almost no maintenance and normal wear due to contact between drive gears is completely eliminated. Linear motor drive technology and direct motor drives make this possible.

The labelling modules

Both labelling modules have been built by following exactly the same design criteria as those for the central part of the machine: high speeds even when handling complex labels, easy-to-use, ergonomic design, very good accessibility and low maintenance. The module structure allows the module to adjust easily to the slope of the floor, thanks to special tilting and fixed feet and a support plate for the tilting labelling units, which move independently.

The self-adhesive labelling station offers these benefits:
? Very light self-adhesive labels can be handled
? Two labelling units can be fitted on the same module, thus guaranteeing no machine downtime when the label reel runs out
? Labelling unit reel changeover is greatly simplified thanks to rapid clip-in/out shaft system
? Air tensioning of label film; this reduces mechanical stress on the labels and consequently minimises the risk of damage or breaking.
 
Whilst the cold glue labelling station has these features:
? Ergonomic design and compact footprint
? Simple format changeover and low maintenance
? Stainless steel structure with anticorrosion treatment.
 
These features also have very positive repercussions for machine access and cleaning.

Hygienic design

The procedures are fast and simple and the Sidel pneumatically assisted guards can open independently. Moreover, the modular labeller's hygienic design makes it particularly suitable for labelling sensitive products, such as beer.

There are also important advantages in terms of output. The SL 90 is ideal for high-speed and very high-speed production and can label up to 60,000 bph (both self-adhesive and cold-glue labels).Air Max 90 NS GPX