Labeling Innovations from Weber

Weber has been building label printer applicators for over 25 years and has thousands of ultra-reliable systems happily churning out labeled packages around the world. Our Models 5100, 5200, and 5300 print-apply systems have evolved over the years from simple to complex, with a variety of label application arms for just about any production line. You wouldn't believe some of the things we are successfully putting labels on.

But when our Engineering Team sat down to devise the next generation of Weber printer applicators, they decided to address the long wish-list of features suggested by our customers. (Most made sense, though asking for tail fins might have been asking too much.) We wanted to build the most reliable print-apply system available with efforts to reduce maintenance and running costs, and keep the system user-friendly and easy to operate. 

After a few years of design, testing and implementation, Weber is now pleased to roll out our new Model 4050 tamp-blow printer applicator. The unit is manufactured in the USA at our headquarters in Arlington Heights, IL. It uses a modular base system design for fast assembly, minimal maintenance, and reduced downtime. The 4050 allows the customers to provide a non-contact method of labelling products quickly and efficiently on their production line.   

The applicator uses a modulated vacuum to reduce air consumption, using over 80% less air than previous models. And while other brands are using air-free solutions via fans, we saw that the convenience of using fans falters from the cost of maintenance and downtime. The 4050 labeler has a clear cover over the pneumatic system which makes it easy to view and access during operation.

The Model 4050 also features a powered label unwind and rewind to reduce print engine wear and provide smooth feeding of the supply roll while not creating as much pull friction on the print head. Anyone who uses a print apply system knows that the number one problem is the constant tugging of the labels from the supply roll that can actually wear grooves in the rollers and wear down the print head from continuous use. The powered unwind/rewinders all but eliminate that wear.

Whether you are looking at label automation for the first time or if you are getting ready to update some old label printer-applicators that have worn out their welcome, there are a few important things to think about. 

Make sure you have all the information you need to make a decision that will reward you for years to come.

There are quite a few different varieties and manufacturers of print-apply systems out there. Most work well, as advertised.

But there are some major differences in the features and construction of these systems that can effect production up-time, maintenance and longevity.

Some Common Issues

 Durability

Depending on your type of product and the production line that the print-apply system is used on, it can see modest to over-whelming activity. First time automation companies might just be labeling 10-20 pieces an hour, where a distribution center might be labeling a package every few seconds.

But in both cases, durability is a major consideration. What would happen if the machine failed? Can you have your production line down for any length of time while the system is fixed? This could create a bottle-neck that keeps products from going out the door. You can employ a zero-downtime system that has a back-up printer-applicator, but that can get expensive. 

When looking for a new print-apply system, see who has a proven track record of durable systems with a good maintenance track record. As with anything, you get what you pay for. Buying a cheap system will only bring future headaches as well as a pain in your wallet when you have to replace it too soon.

Check out systems that are built using substantial materials like stainless steel and aluminum plate. Check and see if all the connections are protected from damage or abuse. Are moving parts like applicator arms shielded to protect the operator or local workers? Make sure the print engine that you chose is a new model from a major manufacturer like Zebra or Sato with up-to-date features. These integrate easily with your online systems for loading label formats and monitoring jobs.