Automatic Double Sided Labeller for Thermal Printed Bucket Labels

Customer Overview: Industrial Manufacturing and Packaging Operation

This Automatic Double Sided Labeller case study focuses on a manufacturing operation requiring highly accurate front and back label application on 1L and 5L buckets.

The customer required a specialised labelling solution capable of applying labels within a fixed position on each bucket while simultaneously incorporating thermal printing onto both labels. Accuracy, consistency, and integration with production requirements were critical to the success of the project.

Given the specialised nature of the application, extensive testing and collaboration were required to ensure the final solution met all operational and quality requirements.

The Challenge: Accurate Dual-Sided Bucket Labelling with Thermal Printing

The customer required a labelling solution capable of applying both front and back labels to plastic buckets while maintaining precise placement and print quality.

Key project requirements included:

Applying labels to both sides of 1L and 5L buckets
Thermal printing on both front and back labels
Accurate label placement within a defined area on each bucket
Utilising zebra marks for positioning control
Specialised controls for printer integration
Reliable operation within an industrial production environment

The complexity of combining dual-sided labelling, thermal printing, and precise positioning required a highly customised approach.

The Solution: Automatic Double Sided Labeller with Dual Thermal Printers

To meet these requirements, an Automatic Double Sided Labeller equipped with two thermal printers was recommended.

The solution was developed through close collaboration between SA Packaging Machinery, the customer, and the manufacturing factory.

Key features included:

Automatic front and back label application
Dual thermal printer integration
Zebra mark detection for accurate label positioning
Customised control functionality for printer operation
Consistent application across multiple bucket sizes
Industrial-grade construction for reliable production performance

The final configuration ensured both labels could be accurately printed and applied in a single automated process.

Implementation Process: Extensive Testing and Development

The implementation process involved detailed planning and testing to ensure all technical requirements were achieved.

Key implementation activities included:

Reviewing application specifications and production requirements
Working closely with the factory to develop a suitable solution
Sending customer samples for testing and validation
Evaluating label placement accuracy and print quality
Refining machine settings and printer controls
Conducting multiple rounds of testing until approval was achieved

Through continuous collaboration and product testing, the final machine configuration successfully met all project objectives.

Results: Accurate Automated Labelling and Strong ROI Potential

Following installation, the Automatic Double Sided Labeller was successfully commissioned and is currently operating in production.

Key outcomes included:

Accurate front and back label application on 1L and 5L buckets
Integrated thermal printing on both labels
Consistent label positioning using zebra mark control
Reduced manual handling and labelling labour requirements
Improved production consistency and quality control
Increased throughput compared to manual or semi-automatic processes
Strong long-term ROI through automation and labour savings

By automating a previously complex labelling process, the customer gained greater consistency, reduced operational dependency on manual labour, and improved production efficiency. The investment also established a foundation for future automation projects.

The success of the installation has already created opportunities for discussions regarding additional labelling equipment and other packaging machinery for future expansion.

Customer Feedback

The machine has been successfully installed and is currently operating in production. The positive outcome of the project has resulted in further discussions regarding additional labelling and packaging equipment requirements.

Why Choose SA Packaging Machinery

If your business requires precise front and back label application, thermal printing integration, or automated bucket labelling, an Automatic Double Sided Labeller can significantly improve consistency, productivity, and traceability.

Why choose SA Packaging Machinery?

Extensive experience with specialised labelling applications
Custom machine configurations for unique production requirements
Product testing and validation before final machine selection
Strong factory partnerships for customised solutions
Local technical support throughout South Africa
Focus on long-term productivity improvements and ROI

See more of our Labelling Machine applications in action on our YouTube Playlist.

Contact SA Packaging Machinery today to discuss the right

automatic labelling solution for your production requirements.

FAQS

What is an Automatic Double Sided Labeller?

An Automatic Double Sided Labeller applies labels to both sides of a product in a single automated process, improving speed and consistency.

Can thermal printers be integrated into the labelling process?

Yes. Thermal printers can be integrated directly into the machine to print variable information onto labels before application.

What are zebra marks used for in labelling?

Zebra marks help ensure labels are positioned accurately and consistently on products during automated application.

Can the machine handle different bucket sizes?

Yes. The system was configured to label both 1L and 5L buckets while maintaining accurate label placement.

How does automation improve ROI in labelling applications?

Automation reduces labour requirements, improves consistency, reduces labelling errors, and increases production throughput, all of which contribute to improved ROI.

Can this type of labeller be customised for specialised applications?

Yes. Automatic Double Sided Labellers can be customised with printer integration, specialised controls, and product-specific handling features to suit unique production requirements.