The device described in this manual is the Pack Leader USA Tabletop Top Labeling Machine ELF-20, a portable machine designed for top label applications, offering efficiency and mobility for small production runs.
Function Description:
The ELF-20 is a tabletop labeling machine specifically engineered for applying labels to the top surface of products. It utilizes a stepper motor for precise label dispensing and is equipped with both product and label sensors to ensure accurate label placement. The machine's controls are fully synchronized, allowing all components to operate at the same speed for consistent performance. It supports various label types, including opaque and translucent base papers, and can handle a range of label and container dimensions. The system includes a label applicator, a conveyor for product transport, and a control panel for operation and setup. An optional hot-foil printer can be integrated for on-demand label customization and code placement, simplifying the labeling process. The machine is designed for ease of use, with a user-friendly operating interface that facilitates quick changes between different labeling applications and product sizes.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Label Type: Top label applications.
- Speed:
- Maximum Dispensing Speed: 52.5 feet/minute (16 meters/minute), 60 continuous/minute.
- Maximum Conveyor Speed: 52.5 feet/minute (16 meters/minute), 60 continuous/minute.
- Dimensions (L-W-H): 43.3" x 20" x 35" (1100mm x 508mm x 889mm).
- Maximum Label Size: 4.75" x 11.8" (120mm x 300mm).
- Maximum Container Width: 6" (152.4mm).
- Maximum Container Height: 4.75" (Flat 120mm).
- Conveyor Width: 6" (152.4mm).
- Spool Diameter: 10" (254mm).
- Inner Core: 3” (76mm).
- Label Reel Specifications:
- Base Paper: Opaque or Translucent.
- Reel Inner Diameter: 3" (76 mm).
- Reel Outer Diameter: 9.8" (250 mm).
- Interval of Label: Minimum 3 mm (between labels).
- Width of Base Paper: Label Width + 4 mm.
- Width of Label: 10mm to 120mm (for 120H Label Head).
- Length of Label: 15mm to 300mm.
- Copy Positions: Supports 1-4 labels wound out (Top, Bottom, Right, Left side of copy dispenses first).
- Note: Label gap must not exceed 5mm for proper machine function.
- Power:
- Voltage: 110/220VAC 50/60 HZ, 1 Phase.
- Power in KW: 0.400.
- Drive: 2 Phase Stepper Motor.
- Net Weight: Approximately 132 lbs (60 kgs).
- Construction: All Pack Leader USA labelers are made of 304 stainless steel and anodized aluminum, treated to guard against rusting and other effects from harsh environments.
Usage Features:
- Flexibility: The ELF-20 features standard one-button teach product and label sensors that can be easily adjusted for various labeling applications. Manual position setting allows for accurate label placement on products.
- Printer Integration: The machine can be upgraded to activate hot-foil printer controls, enabling integrated label customization and accurate code placement in sync with the labeler.
- User-Friendly Interface: The operating interface is designed for simplicity, allowing for quick and easy changes between different labeling applications, product sizes, and types.
- Control Panel: The control panel includes a main power switch, emergency stop, liquid crystal display, and buttons for "Length Set," "Value," "Menu," "Digit," "Labeling On," and "Labeling Off."
- Precount Setup: Users can set a predetermined quantity of labels to be dispensed, after which the machine will automatically stop.
- Label Delay Setup: The "LABEL POSITION" setting allows adjustment of the label dispensing delay, ensuring the label is dispensed at the correct moment relative to the product.
- Label Head Setup: The label head can be turned ON or OFF via the control panel.
- Speed Setup: The machine's operating speed can be adjusted from 1 to 4.
- Printer Setup: If a printer is installed, its operation can be toggled ON or OFF from the control panel.
- Memory Storage: Up to five settings can be stored for future use, eliminating the need to re-enter information for recurring jobs. This includes parameters like label length, batch counter, and label delay.
- Safety Regulations: Emphasizes the importance of connecting to the correct power source, adjusting object and label sensors, and ensuring dry hands when plugging in the machine, especially in wet environments.
- Label Loading: Detailed instructions are provided for inserting labels into the applicator, both with and without a printer, ensuring proper tension and contact with the label sensor.
- Object Sensor: The object sensor is a fiber optic infra-red sensor used to detect the presence of bottles for labeling. It features a dual-function LED indicator (GREEN for "ON" after AUTOSÉT routine, AMBER for excess gain adjustment) and a triple-function LED indicator (RED for output status, GREEN for flash rate alignment, AMBER for AUTOSÉT routine complete). A push-button control allows for sensor setup, light state, alignment, flash rate adjustment, and output status toggling.
- Parts Adjustments: The manual details adjustments for conveyor belt tightness, conveyor height, and guide rail width to accommodate different products.
Maintenance Features:
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section addressing common issues such as incorrect label length, multiple labels dispensed, labels not dispensing, slanted labels, no screen display, labels not sticking, wrinkles or bubbles, and conveyor not working.
- Control Panel Care: Users are advised not to bump or press heavily on the control panel, to use fingers for button presses, and to clean the surface with a soft cleaner or wet cloth. Opening the control panel for repairs by unauthorized personnel is discouraged to prevent damage or injury.
- Durable Construction: The use of 304 stainless steel and anodized aluminum ensures the machine's durability and resistance to rust and environmental damage, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
- Microprocessor Control: A battery-free microprocessor control system maintains default settings and memory, even after extended periods of inactivity, simplifying setup after storage.
- Compliance: Manufactured in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards and ISO 9001 quality control procedures, ensuring reliability and ease of quarterly inspections.