Product category:
Laser marking systems
News Release from: DataLase | Subject: DataLase technology
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 16 November 2004
Virtual laser labelling eliminates
adhesive labels
Revolutionary virtual labelling technique eradicates adhesive labels on packaging and uses a laser system to print barcodes, 2D codes, logos, graphics and so on.
With a new development of its DataLase technology, the colour change specialist, Sherwood Technology has produced a revolutionary virtual labelling technique that eradicates the need to use adhesive labels on packaging The innovative application allows images such as barcodes, 2 dimensional codes, logos, graphics etc to be imaged by a low power CO2 laser directly onto any surface, eliminating the time consuming process of printing on and applying labels to packaging
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 16 Feb 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
Related stories
Laser generates codes, images, print
A groundbreaking coding, marking and printing technique uses very low power laser light for the high speed printing of images.
Images produced in coatings at high speeds
By combining substrate conversion and laser energy, a chemistry can be added to inks, coatings and plastics allowing images to be printed at high speeds using low power laser light.
The virtual label becomes an integral part of the packaging, and unlike conventional labels will not peel or fall off the package.
This latest application of DataLase will particularly benefit industries which use labels on packaging, such as food and beverage and pharmaceutical.
DataLase is a non-toxic and environmentally friendly ink, coating, or substrate additive that produces a positive image when marked by a low power CO2 laser.
The ink, coating or additive undergoes a simple chemical colour change and creates an image that is stable and has high contrast.
Traditional labelling technologies have been slow and complicated, relying on high maintenance thermal transfer or ink jet printers to produce labels.
Using a low powered laser to mark directly on the product is a much cheaper option than any established printing technique, as it removes constant maintenance costs and consumable costs, such as labels.
The process of virtual labelling also overcomes the problem of continuous stop/starting on the production line, virtually eliminating downtime by removing the need to print and apply labels.
By addressing the conventional shortcomings of traditional labelling technologies, DataLase offers a virtual labelling technique that is both time and cost effective.
Steve Kelly, managing director, Sherwood Technology, comments: "Virtual labelling is an application of DataLase that will provide huge cost benefits for the manufacturer.
Not only is the technology considerable cheaper to use and maintain than previous applications, but the fact that it virtually eliminates downtime provides the opportunity to increase the average daily output." The DataLase technology virtual labelling application will be available as a result of new licensing agreements and strategic partnerships with substrate manufacturers and convertors.
• DataLase: contact details and other news
• Email this article to a colleague
• Register for the free Manufacturingtalk email newsletter
• Manufacturingtalk Home Page
Search the Pro-Talk network of sites
