ALcode Industrial Print & Apply

ALcode is an industrial printer application system designed to automatically print and apply self-adhesive labels in real-time and on a one-to-one basis (the last label printed is the label applied) quickly, efficiently and reliably.

The machine is extremely well proven in a variety of printer-applicator applications from logistics carton and tote shipping labels, to ITF 14 and GS128 traded unit labelling, to filled sacks product identification and traceability labels, configurable for operation in even the harshest industrial environments on a 24/7 basis.

ALcode machines integrate the technological and market-leading industrial print engines from the well known thermal printer manufacturers, Sato and Zebra. This means that as well as offering print technology and speeds at the very top of the market, there is no easier machine than ALcode to integrate with existing labelling software or business process control software systems (such as SAP) via a range of interface options including Ethernet and Wireless.

As standard ALcode can accept label reels up to 300 mm diameter (on 76mm core), but can be optioned with an enlarged 400 mm unit and corresponding high-capacity rewinder for extended operation. Further, for high-speed continuous operation lines, or lines where immediate machine redundancy is required, ALcode can be supplied in pairs with slide extraction and a sophisticated non-stop operation controller for automatic switching between the two machines.

ALcode includes as standard both a PLC, for complete line signalling flexibility and also a user-friendly intuitive touch screen display to allow the working parameters of the machine to be adjusted; i.e. between different products and its status clearly communicated. This display can also be 'locked out' to only core functions such as Jog/Reset for single operation/unattended applications and/or where desirable.

A key benefit of ALcode is the ease by which the integrated print engine can be hot-swapped from the machine; e.g. for service/maintenance. This feature is in contrast to most competitor machines where the printer is integral to the web drive and failure will result in the machine and line being non-operable. It also allows the potential for future print engine upgrades either in width or model depending on the configuration.

ALcode in Detail

Application Systems:

ALcode can be equipped with a huge array of different application devices. A small selection of the application modules available include:

Air jet application system (with or without piston), for regular-shaped moving products.
Vacuum belt application device, for label application onto regular moving products. This device is only electrical and does not require compressed air.
Swinging application system, for wipe-on application onto moving products (ideal for sacks and bags, both empty or filled).
Tamp application system, for stationery products potentially at variable heights (including a servo tamp for high-speed logistics requirements).
Rotary arm applicator, to apply on to the front of moving products.

Accessory Options:

It is also possible to add on some further enhancement devices, such as:

Laser scanner for barcode checking/label presence confirmation
Near-end of reel sensor and/or rewind full, with multicolour tower light
'Label on tamp' confirmation sensor (to confirm the label has not been lost before application)
Supplementary label bending /adaption devices
A sensor to confirm the presence of compressed air
PLC's from alternate manufacturers and/or with custom interface programming

Standalone Label Selection:

Where a PC or host label data connection is either not available or not suitable in the application (e.g. in a chilled environment) or where Batch/Date Code information needs entering at the machine, ALcode can also be provided with a choice of local print control solutions, including our intuitive user access controlled 'ALprint' controller (providing a similar interface to an intermittent batch coder) OR a full windows operating system 'ALpad', either running our own ALsoft professional label design package or your chosen software solution; e.g. Bartender.

ALpad - Windows touchscreen with keypad
ALprint - standalone print controller (shown with ALcode for sack labelling)

Key Features

High performance industrial 'one-to-one' machine, for 24/7 line critical applications
Intuitive touch screen HMI with programmable PLC controller
Unparalleled range of module application solutions - label application to any face at virtually any line speed
Choice of OEM TT industrial print engines from world -leading manufacturers for ultimate printing & integration