TL;DR
Label misapplication is usually a container guiding, sensor timing, or glue temperature problem. Check those three in sequence before adjusting mechanical label placement.
What you might see
- labels skewing or wrapping off-position
- label placement error above spec
- label tear at application head
- sensor showing erratic container detection
Likely causes
Container guide or star wheel worn, allowing container position variation
Glue temperature outside the specified range causing poor initial tack
Label registration sensor misaligned causing timing offset
Label web tension inconsistent due to a dragging or slipping roll brake
Required tools
- Feeler gauge
- Thermometer (for glue temperature check)
- Inspection flashlight
- Container placement gauge (if supplied)
Safety first
- Hot melt glue systems operate at temperatures above 150 degrees C. Wear heat-resistant gloves when checking or adjusting glue rollers.
- The labeler star wheel and conveyor have pinch points. Never reach into the container path while the machine is powered without LOTO.
Procedure
- 1
Stop the labeler and remove containers from the conveyor. Do not adjust anything while the machine is running.[1]
- 2
Inspect the container guide rails and star wheels for wear or incorrect setting. A worn or misset guide allows containers to rotate at the application point.[1]
- 3
Check the glue temperature at the glue roller. Compare to the specification for the label material and container type.
- 4
Verify the label registration sensor beam is correctly targeted to the label registration mark. Re-align if offset.
- 5
Check the label web tension by pressing the web lightly between rolls. Uneven tension causes inconsistent label feed length.
- 6
Run a test with empty containers and observe label placement at each station. Identify the specific station where misapplication occurs.
- 7
Adjust the affected station's brush-on angle or application timing in increments of one parameter at a time.
Sources
Krones Krones Contiroll / Solomatic Labeler / Cartoner general technical documentation, Krones
Krones Contiroll / Solomatic labeler general label placement and application procedures (general)
More guides for Krones Krones Contiroll / Solomatic
How to diagnose drive belt and chain wear on a Krones Contiroll / Solomatic labeler
Worn drive chains cause pitch error and label indexing drift. Measure chain elongation and sprocket wear, and replace when the elongation exceeds the service limit.
How to fix a glue system blockage on a Krones Contiroll / Solomatic labeler
A glue blockage stops labeling. Check the glue tank level and temperature first, then trace the supply path from tank to drum for solidified glue.
Stop fixing the same fault twice.
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