The process of putting labels on cans involves several steps that ensure the final graphic image is transferred onto the can body. This process requires precision and attention to detail to create visually appealing and durable labels.
1. Preparation: Before the labeling process begins, the cans need to be cleaned to ensure there is no dirt or debris on the surface. Clean cans are essential for the proper adherence of the labels. Once the cans are clean, they are fed into the printer.
2. Placement on a Mandrel: The clean cans are placed on a steel mandrel, which is a rotating device that holds the cans in place during the labeling process. The mandrel spins to rotate the can body against the rotating blanket, allowing for the transfer of the graphic image.
3. Printing: The printer consists of a rotating blanket, which is the surface that carries the ink, and a cylinder that holds the graphic image to be transferred. As the mandrel spins, the can body is pressed against the rotating blanket, and the image from the cylinder is transferred onto the can. This process repeats for each can on the mandrel.
4. Coatings: After the ink transfer, other coatings may be applied to the cans. These coatings can serve various purposes such as protecting the label, enhancing the visual appearance, or providing additional functionality. For example, a clear protective coating can be applied to prevent the label from scratching or peeling off easily.
5. UV Curing: Once the coatings are applied, the cans are sent to UV ovens. These ovens use ultraviolet light to cure the coatings quickly, creating a durable and long-lasting finish. UV curing is particularly effective for labels on metal cans as it ensures the ink and coatings adhere well to the surface.
The process of putting labels on cans requires specialized equipment and expertise to achieve high-quality results. Each step is carefully executed to ensure proper adhesion, durability, and visual appeal of the labels. The use of UV curing technology further enhances the quality and longevity of the labels.
My personal experience with labeling cans involves my time as a brewer. I vividly remember the excitement and anticipation of seeing our beer cans being labeled for the first time. It was fascinating to observe the precision and efficiency of the labeling machine as it seamlessly transferred our carefully designed labels onto the cans. The process required meticulous attention to detail, as any imperfections or misalignments could affect the overall appearance of the final product. It was satisfying to see the finished cans with their vibrant labels, ready to be shared with beer enthusiasts.