Laser-activated labels with variable data for product variants & varieties

Labelling for products that have different colours, variations, sizes and packaging units often presents a particular challenge if production is to be made as efficient as possible.

However, if you have to store a large number of different, individually and fully pre-printed labels, a great many storage slots will be occupied in your warehouse – and label changes will have to be made frequently on the packaging machine.

Print labels with variable data in your packaging plant

Individual data can be directly printed on laser-activated labels in your packaging system to match the production order, significantly reducing the variety of types and the number of label changes that have to be made.

New labelling stations are to be installed in the bottling plants? Great – because this will enable the bottling process labels to be printed with variable data such as product name, colour designation, barcodes, serial numbers and expiry date. The printed image must be pin-sharp, smudge-proof, scratch-resistant and lightfast because the product in the colour bottle must remain clearly identifiable even after a long time.

The colour bottles are available in different sizes, which should all be identified with the same label if possible. A uniform label size and shape should be used for this. The label is attached in such a way that the coloured content remains visible in one section of the transparent bottles. The previous solution for this issue was to use a large number of different, fully pre-printed labels.

Conventional printing processes using thermal transfer printers, for example, are at a disadvantage in that they require labels, additional consumables, matching thermal transfer ribbons and much more. The thermal transfer ribbons also have to be replaced – and this means additional downtime.

Three components – all from a single source: special laser-activated labels (also called LAM labels), in combination with a CO₂ laser and a HERMA labelling machine, open up a host of new possibilities for product labelling. The low-maintenance, non-contact system demonstrably reduces downtimes and requires no additional consumables.

CO₂ laser systems are ideal for labelling products with a pin-sharp print image and minimum operating costs. A complete print is produced in a fraction of a second and even small fonts and barcodes are printed with sharp contours – all smudge-proof, scratch-resistant and lightfast.

At HERMA, the labels on a roll are pre-printed in colour with the constant product information. All change and variable data is ‘written’ by the laser directly in the packaging system. Cut-outs in the label allow a view of the original contents, making the colours visible for the consumer: they are much better than any colour print on the label.

Special devices in the labelling system ensure that the labels are applied properly with no wrinkles despite the cut-outs – and this at high cycle rates.

The adhesive has a strong tack, and even in the bonded state, it adheres firmly and permanently to the round plastic paint container.

Can be used in many individual usage scenarios, customised to match your exact requirements

Of course, you can also process HERMA LAM labels with existing CO₂ laser systems while benefiting from the labels’ superior quality, high-speed capability, contrast and sharp outlines. They offer clear advantages over other laser-activated materials like laser-activated coatings.

We produce in your desired format: blank or individually pre-printed.

Laser labelling systems are a convincing alternative to conventional labelling solutions in companies. HERMA is a pioneer in this technology. Our label materials set the standards when it comes to printing quality and speed.

Profit from our many years of know-how and service. Take advantage of our expertise as system developers – ask for detailed advice on how to maximise your production efficiency. Use the contact form to get in touch with us. You’ll hear from us right away.