Diagraph labeling systems let users automate their product identification, tracking, shipment addressing, and bar-coding processes. The systems apply labels to single or adjacent sides of cartons or pallets.
When engineers at Diagraph Corp., Earth City, Mo., were testing cylinders for their high-speed industrial labeling systems, they found that twin-rod cylinders produced faster cycle times than conventional single-rod cylinders with external guides. AZV cylinders from Hoerbiger-Origa, Glendale Heights, Ill., have two piston rods that connect to the labeling mechanisms, letting them guide the equipment without rotating. Diagraph uses the cylinders for label application and secondary wipe functions.
Speed is a major concern in labeling applications. According to Scott Rosenberger, Product Manager at Hoerbiger-Origa, compared to twin-rod cylinders, the added weight of external guides on conventional cylinders requires more energy and time to accelerate, decelerate, and reverse directions in labeling applications.
The weight savings from using AZV cylinders lets the labeling systems apply labels faster than systems with externally guided cylinders. Labeling systems outfitted with the twin-rod cylinders apply 105 labels/min, compared to 79 labels/min for systems with externally guided cylinders. Their nonrotating motion also maintains high placement accuracy and their rugged construction provides long life with little maintenance.
This information supplied by Hoerbiger-Origa, Glendale Heights, Ill.