WS Packaging Introduces LinerLESS Labels

Published: December 27, 2012

GREEN BAY, WI | WS Packaging Group Inc. has introduced LinerLESS, its new rotary and in-line pressure-sensitive labeling solution that eliminates the label liner for pressure-sensitive film labels.

LinerLESS labels perform to the same quality standards as pressure-sensitive labels with conventional liners and are best-suited for labeling products in the health and beauty, personal care, beverage and spirits markets. Cost reduction expectations range from 8%–20% when looking at the total applied cost of labeling.

The rotary and in-line systems both deploy clear and white BOPP film that is 2-mil and has micro perforations separating each label. The LinerLESS facestock has a silicone release coating to prevent labels from adhering to those wound underneath. By eliminating the liner, the number of labels per roll is effectively doubled, which means fewer roll changes, reduced labor costs, and less downtime for the labeling line.

“Doing away with the liner for pressure-sensitive film labels eliminates a waste stream and reduces the total applied cost of labeling,” said Dan Fulwiler, chief innovations officer, WS Packaging. “The performance technologies developed for our fully integrated rotary and in-line LinerLESS printing and application equipment make these pressure-sensitive film labels a good business decision that reduces labeling costs and the environmental footprint.”

Both the rotary and in-line LinerLESS systems allow for high-speed label application, with line speeds of 400-plus pieces per minute, and higher depending on the application. The systems combine multiple patented and patent-pending technologies, including label construction and application equipment, that together deliver a completely integrated solution.

Micro perforations allow individual labels to be separated from the label roll at speed, but in a fully controlled manner. The labels have a completely clean edge, and there is no delay in the labeling process.

All current commonly used decorating technologies for films can be used with LinerLESS facestocks, including metallic ink and foil stamp applications. And, as with traditional clear pressure-sensitive films, graphics can be reverse-printed on the back of the facestock, eliminating the need for an over-laminate to provide scuff resistance or extra durability.

The rotary LinerLESS system requires a proprietary application head manufactured by ILTI S.r.l. (Italian Labelling Technology Industry), Mantova, Italy. The application head is attached to a rotary applicator. Multiple heads can be placed on the rotary applicator depending on application requirements. Rotary label placement is precise, with a placement accuracy that is +/- 1/32 in. (+/- 1 mm). The ILTI proprietary LinerLESS application head (PROPER-LL1) is compatible with ILTI rotary self-adhesive labeling machines, model System RE and System RP. Up to six labeling stations are available. The labeling head is also adaptable to other rotary self-adhesive labeling machines.

The in-line LinerLESS application system requires a proprietary application head, the HERMA 400. The applicator is equipped with servo drive motors that maximize productivity. They ensure the unit matches speed of transport, via an encoder, with precise label placement accuracy that is +/- 1/32 in. (+/- 1 mm). Labels are applied directly to the product without the need for compressed air, vacuum pads, or complex change parts when switching over to labels of a different size. HERMA GmbH is a European specialist in self-adhesive technology and is based in Filderstadt, Germany.

The clear and white BOPP film labels are available in rectangular or square dimensional configurations, and the upper and lower sides can be curved. Adhesive formulations are application-specific. Additional features of LinerLESS include:

• No added Gaylord container, transportation, landfill, warehouse or packaging costs associated with liner disposal and storage. That means lower overall costs.
• Reduced environmental impact through sustainable manufacturing practices and maximized supply chain efficiencies.

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