Urania

LABELING - PRINT AND APPLY:

Open positions on either PouchPro system may be equipped with a commercially available "print and apply" label applicator. Label application is usually completed when the pouch remains flat, typically before product loading. Most major brands of applicators have been used. Commonly used print engines are manufactured by Sato™ and Zebra™ with resolutions up to 300 dpi. Commercial applicators are also commonly modified to allow processing of two (2) or more pouches simultaneously for increased productivity. Labeling both sides of the pouch is also possible on a properly equipped PouchPro.

LABELING - APPLY ONLY:

Commercially available "tamp" or "blow on" type label applicators may be used on any available PouchPro station prior to product loading. This option relies on a fully preprinted label.

All labeling options require a self leveling applicator "backing plate." This plate is incorporated into the standard vacuum plates used to hold and process the pouch.

DIRECT PRINTING ON POUCH:

Thermal transfer type "direct" pouch printing is another available option. Printer models from various manufacturers are capable of printing directly on most pouch materials using an ink coated ribbon. The most common colors available are black and dark blue. This printing process requires that a hard rubber coated "backing plate" be precisely positioned behind the pouch. This is done automatically. Graphics and bar code printing capabilities are standard features of most models. Print areas of up to 5" x 5" (127mm x 127mm) can be accommodated. This option may only be used on a PouchPro station prior to product loading.

INK JET PRINTING ON POUCH:

This type of printing requires a controlled movement relationship between the pouch and the print head. If pouch surface deformation from the product is minimal, simplified stationary mounting of the print head under the sealer is preferable.

The print head may also be mounted on a simple traversing mechanism if the pouch is to be printed while stationary on an available PouchPro station.

DESICCANT OR OXYGEN ABSORBER LOADING:

Packets of desiccant or oxygen absorption material may be deposited into an open pouch located on any of the available stations. Specific requirements for placement position within the pouch and/or product may dictate functional characteristics of this device. The packets of material are usually supplied on a "reel." Also, packets may be supplied "fan folded" in a box. A commercially available feed and cut type desiccant dispenser will be used to deposit the packet directly into the pouch. Often, the packet may be deposited into a tube or other mechanism/escapement device for more precise location in the pouch.

INSPECTION/VERIFICATION

PouchPro systems may be fitted with various devices to ensure a proper product is being produced. Vision systems utilizing the latest camera technology have become common place for the inspection and/or verification of proper performance of the pouching process.

Vision have often been used to:

• Check for presence of parts or components.
• Check for presence of proper components.
• Check for proper labels or label placement.
• Check for proper print on label or pouch from previous operations.

In many cases, the necessary inspection/verification may be completed using less complicated devices. A simple photosensor, proximity sensor, or bar code reader may provide the inspection solution required for your application.