Vial label applicators for small cylindrical lab containers

Likely machine route

For laboratory vials, small sample bottles and narrow cylindrical containers, the usual starting point is small diameter wrap-around labellers with accurate label dispensing. A machine should not be selected from the product name alone: the correct route depends on the container geometry, label size, label material, application position, required speed and how often operators change between formats.

Where the pack is cylindrical, wrap control and roller pressure are normally important. Where the pack is flat, oval or rectangular, product stabilisation and front/back alignment become more important. If the label carries variable data, barcode or batch information, the project may also need coding, printing or print-and-apply integration.

What to specify before quotation

The fastest way to get a useful recommendation is to send accurate product and label information. The main details for this application are:

• vial diameter and height
• label length, height and material
• whether labels are paper, clear or synthetic
• required output per batch
• sample vials and label rolls

Short videos of the current packing method are also useful because they show product presentation, manual handling problems and the line stage that is limiting output.

Common issues to avoid

Most labelling problems start with assumptions made before the machine is built or supplied. For this application, check the following before comparing quotations:

How Lancing UK can help

Lancing UK can help shortlist semi-automatic, compact automatic and fully automatic labelling machinery based on the pack and line requirement. The recommendation can also include conveyors, product handling, coding, inspection, commissioning and aftercare where those details affect reliable running.