BBK Labelling and Coding Solutions Ltd

Labelling, offline coding, Zebra CAB Sato Thermal Printers, Thermal & Hotfoil ribbons

Automatic Labelling systems and DTO labelling machine construction:
Whether you give preference to a standard solution or a special machine designed specifically for your needs, BBK offers you a comprehensive product range including table-top or manual dispensers for adhesive labels on reels, semi-automatic labelling systems that are loaded by hand and on to fully automatic labelling systems. These include pallet labelling systems by means of robotics and keg and cask labelling systems for the brewery industry. BBK labelling are also able to provide full track and trace functionality which includes bespoke machinery and software development.  Integration of UV 2D printers for high speed integration provides a fundamental part of any track and trace application,  all associated consumables such as Thermal printer ribbons, printed and blank label stock can also be supplied. We have over 24 years experience so are able to manufacture some of the most advanced labelling systems available while supply your thermal ribbons and labels at very competitive price. With quality thermal printer ribbons and labels being key to any labelling processes we supply high quality thermal printer ribbons and labels from manufactures such as Armor, Sony, Zebra, Toshiba, Kurz, Ricoh and Netmark IQ. We use some of the largest label converters and printers available. This enables us to pass on the savings to end user.

• Barcode labelling system
• Automatic Print & Apply labelling Systems
• Pallet labelling machines
• Keg and cask labelling systems
• Labelling Systems - Automatic, Semi-Automatic & Barcode
• Label applicators
• Desktop Thermal Printers from Zebra, Sato, Intermec, TEC, CAB
• Label dispensers
• Roll & Rewind units
• Thermal Printer Ribbons and labels
• Track and trace
  

Our customers operate in a wide variety of industrial sectors including:

• Pharmaceuticals
• chemicals
• cosmetics
• food
• electrical and electronic industry

BBK design and build PSL labelling systems (Pressure Sensitive Labelling) that are appropriate for these sectors and, in addition to producing our standard systems; we also cater to any special requirements. For example, we supply to the drinks industry a labelling and removal system for drinks crates and special labelling system for books, CDs, MCs and DVDs for the entertainment industry.

Label Applicators "RAPID" label dispensing systems
These applicators are distinguished by the use of high quality components, an excellent finish and their robust mechanical construction. These factors make the RAPID dispensing systems a reliable partner to deal with all concerns involved with labelling and facilitate optimally adapted solutions. A modular structure ensures the user fast and simple retrofitting or extension to the system. Special options for removing the labels from the dispensing tongue as well as various options for pressing the labels onto the product making it possible for almost any conceivable product format to be labelled. They are used in our range of barcode labelling systems, print and apply labelling systems and semi and fully automatic labelling systems.

There are also a variety of label vision inspection options available for the various types of labels.

It is possible to install the RAPID label applicators on fixed tripods of fixed heights or on a height-adjustable stand. This means that the system is very flexible to use and is easily integrated to an existing conveyor system. As soon as pre-printed labels are used it becomes clear that this dispenser is indispensable.

If a label requires on demand printing, we can fit our label applicators with Hotfoil printers, Thermal printers, embossing units, Inkjet coders, and laser printers from almost every manufacturer. These include Markem, Videojet, Opendate, KBA-Metronic, Allen coding, ICE plus many more. BBK are able to supply a full package including preventative maintenance, thermal printer ribbons, printed and blank labels stock.

The RAPID series label applicator is available in the standard widths of 60 mm to 300mm. However, if you request it, we will gladly produce intermediate, oversize and undersize widths. Depending on the dispensing speeds required the machines are equipped with DC, stepper motors or servo motors.

We use a tried and tested microprocessor control with display and keyboard (in a 19" housing) to control the dispensers. Optional HMI’s available for full visualisation of your labelling system.

If required, a pneumatic version of the entire system (dispenser and controls) can be produced. For customers who use an SPS control system, we have the following makes in our range: SIEMENS, EBERLE und KLÖCKNER-MÖLLER.

Semi-automatic labelling systems function partially automatically, i.e. the machine depends on the user placing the products onto the system by hand. In various branches of industry there are several possible applications for semi-automatic labelling systems.

Fully automatic labelling systems work completely automatically, i.e. the products are either unstacked by us or the machine is installed IN-LINE, in other words connected to other systems, such as packing machines, filling machines, tubular bagging machines or other conveyor units that feed the products automatically.  These include Pallet labelling systems, Barcode labelling systems, Print and apply labelling machines, C wrap labelling machines, Wrap around labelling systems plus labelling equipment for every other labelling application.

We are constantly working on and developing new systems. If your labelling application is not covered by one of our existing labelling systems, please contact us directly as we will certainly be able to help you solve your labelling problem.

Thermal Transfer Printers/Direct Thermal Printers:
These are used as a stand alone barcode printers or as a print engine within our print and apply labelling machines and barcode labelling systems: BBK Supply thermal transfer printers from Zebra, Sato, Intermec, Toshiba, CAB, Datamax, Citizen plus many others.  Offering Thermal printer ribbons from the major manufactures and convertors such as TTS, Armor, Sony, Kurz. This enables BBK to offer the most durable and cost effective thermal printer ribbon for almost any application

What is the difference between direct thermal and thermal transfer printing?
There are two thermal printing methods: direct thermal and thermal transfer. Each method uses a thermal print head that applies heat to the surface being marked. Thermal transfer printing uses a heated ribbon to produce durable, long-lasting images on a wide variety of materials. No ribbon is used in direct thermal printing, which creates the image directly on the printed material. Direct thermal media is more sensitive to light, heat and abrasion, which reduces the life of the printed material.

Why are direct thermal and thermal transfer the best technologies for printing bar codes?
Thermal label printers are ideal for bar code printing because they produce accurate, high-quality images with excellent edge definition. Thermal printers are engineered to print within tight tolerances and to produce the exact bar widths that successful bar code printing and scanning require. Each technology can produce one- and two-dimensional bar code symbologies, graphics and text at the same print resolutions and speeds. The additional components to achieving the perfect barcode are the thermal ribbon and label material. BBK can specify the most suitable and cost effective thermal ribbon and label stock required for every application.

How do I choose between direct thermal and thermal transfer printing?
The following sections will help you understand the differences between the technologies and how to select the appropriate print method for your application.

Direct thermal printing uses chemically treated, heat-sensitive media that blackens when it passes under the thermal print head. Direct thermal printers have no ink, toner, or ribbon.

Their simple design makes direct thermal printers durable and easy to use. Because there is no ribbon, direct thermal printers cost less to operate than inkjet, laser, impact, and thermal transfer printers. Most mobile printers use direct thermal technology.

Thermal media images may fade over time. If the label is overexposed to heat, light, or other catalysts, the material will darken and make the text or bar code unreadable. For these reasons, direct thermal printing is not used for lifetime identification applications. The readability of direct thermal labels, wristbands, and receipt papers varies greatly, depending on the usage conditions, but the technology provides ample lifespan for many common bar code printing applications including shipping labels, patient and visitor identification, receipts, and ticket printing.

For example, direct thermal labels can easily remain scannable after spending six months in storage in a distribution centre, and direct thermal patient wristbands have a special coating that makes them water- and chemical-resistant. Common thermal printing applications include: shipping labels, compliance labels; receipts; pick tickets; coupons; event tickets; citations and parking tickets; name tags; visitor passes; and more.

In thermal transfer printing, a thermal print head applies heat to a thermal ribbon, which melts ink onto the material to form the image. The ink is absorbed so that the image becomes part of the media. This technique provides image quality and durability that is unmatched by other on-demand printing technologies.

Thermal transfer printers can accept a wider variety of media than direct thermal models, including paper, polyester, and polypropylene materials. Thermal transfer printers can create extremely durable wristbands, asset tags, and certification labels, in addition to common labels, tags, and tickets. The specific label material and ribbon must be carefully matched to ensure print performance and durability.

By selecting the right media-thermal ribbon combination, as well as specialty adhesives, users can create archival-quality labels to withstand temperature extremes, ultraviolet exposure, chemicals, sterilisation, and more. Typical thermal transfer applications include: product identification; circuit board tracking; permanent identification; sample and file tracking; asset tagging; inventory identification; certification labels such as UL/CSA; laboratory specimens; cold storage and freezers; and outdoor applications. Thermal ribbon types are wax, wax/resin, resin.

We supply Desktop printers from:

• Intermec
• Zebra
• Sato
• Easyprint
• VIPcolor

Printing speeds of up to 1400mm/sec, Print resolutions up to 600 dpi, suitable printers supplied according to application and budget, with an extensive range of accessories, interfaces and options.

Our range also includes label printing and dispensing systems. These so-called applicators print and dispense labels by means of a single device. We provide you with the experience of specialists in this field for all possible applications and work out the best technical and economical solution by giving you optimal advice.

We are continuously developing novelties for use in a variety of sectors, such as a fully automatic pallet labelling machine as well as customised solutions for all kinds of industries.

Handling Systems & Label design software
Any product from vials to pallets can be handled and integrated into your existing production lines or designed as a turn key solution. Product DVDs are available upon request and will show examples of our standard label applicators, wrap around labelling systems, barcode labelling systems, print and apply labelling systems through to design to order examples including robotics.

Keg and cask labelling systems

BBK Manufacture print and apply labelling systems for the brewer industry.  Keg and cask labelling is required for basic production information and include manufacturer, fill dates etc.  Fully automatic Keg and cask banding systems are also supplied in europe for implementing deposit paid schemes.

Track and Trace

BBK have delivered on a number of track and trace applications within a number of key industries.  With our experience and flexibility, we offer a range of sophisticated and secure selection of print based security features from which customers can select individual brand protection methods.  Combinations of the following methods can be selected in order to give multi layered security and functionality.  These include:

• Overt print which requires no reading device
• Semi Covert print which requires simple devices to check product authenticity
• Covert print which require sophisticated techniques & specialist devices for verification.

Track and trace functionality is required by multinational companies, manufacturing just about everything, from crisps to dental floss, televisions to motorcycle parts.  Manufactures use these track and trace systems in order to reduce the illegal trade in counterfeit and potential dangerous products. 

Counterfeits can have a huge effect in consumer brand confidence and more importantly consumer safety.  Track and trace systems are key to these multinational manufactures working in partnership with government and law enforcement agencies and ensure brands/products/ are the genuine article.  It also ensures they can enforce legitimate business interests

Integration
With a vast wealth of knowledge and experience within the coding and Marking industry we can integrate our equipment into your existing production line and advise the most appropriate and cost effective solution.

Company Outline:
BBK are a German manufacturer of Label applicators, semi automatic labelling systems, fully automatic labelling systems and Design to Order solutions (DTO). With over 23 years manufacturing experience within every industry sector we are capable of providing a solution based on your requirements. With experienced design engineers and development teams at hand we are able to work around you as the customer. Standard applications in the form hand held ticket/label dispensers right up to Robotic pallet labelling systems can be supplied. Design to order solutions (DTO) such as beer Keg labelling machines, Crate labelling systems where we remove the previously applied label can be designed and manufactured. With no job to small or no application to hard BBK will endeavour to provide you with the service you require.

Integrating many of the world leading companies equipment from the likes of Intermec, Zebra, Markem, KBA - Metronic to name but a few, we are ideally situated on advising on the best solution for your application.

Label printing systems, Label print and automation software is our specialty. Barcode readers and DATA collection systems in the form of:

• Bar Pen Scanners
• Handheld scanners
• Touch readers
• MDC (Mobile Data Collection)
• Fixed Scanners and Camera Systems RFID - Equipment
  

Pharmaceutical labelling/Cosmetic labelling
Pharmaceutical labelling and cosmetic labelling is a key area for BBK. Being able to deliver a pharmaceutical labelling system based on your specific URS (user requirement specification) followed up by a detailed FS document (functional specification). This is a fundamental requirement and is issued with every labelling system into the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. From a standard vial labelling application through to a DTO solution, BBK have the experience and back ground to ensure the pharmaceutical labelling system meets all of your URS requirements.
Having a design to order pharmaceutical labelling solution built and specified according to your detailed URS give you "the customer" the confidence we will provide exactly what you require. Your pharmaceutical labelling machine can be specified to incorporate your site standard vision inspection camera systems and print engines. Your standards can be kept constant and where possible we will also adapt our existing standard pharmaceutical labelling machines to your standards and specification.

Pressure Sensitive - Self Adhesive Label Applicators
Pre-glued labels are supplied on a reel of release paper or film. They require no water to make the adhesive stick.  By far the most popular form of label applicator they have replaced many traditional uses of wet glue application. The advantages are that there is no liquid glue or heat required in the process and the label can be made from materials other than paper. The labels can be pre-cut into complex shapes on the reel by means of a die-cutter and stored on the reel until required, with minimal risk of damage. This method of application enables labels to be applied at medium/high speed to soft packages as well as rigid containers and where the product could be damaged by water or heat.  Label applicators in various configurations are available and will suit any application or budget.  Label applicators are specified based on the speed, size, registration and budget requirements.  From a hand held manual label gun, Semi automatic label applicator for flat, round/cylindrical or square products for small volume application up to 40 parts per min through to fully automatic label applicators fully integrated into an existing machine for speed upto 300pm depending on label size, registration and vision inspection requirements.