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FAQs
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ALS supplies labelling machines, labels and thermal transfer ribbons to manufacturers, logistics operations and packaging lines across the UK. Whether you're choosing your first piece of labelling equipment, sourcing the right label material for a demanding application, or selecting a ribbon grade to match your printer and environment, these answers cover the questions we're asked most often.
If you can't find what you need here, contact the ALS team directly — we're happy to help.
Ask Us Your Labelling Questions
Yes. We offer preventative maintenance agreements designed to maximise equipment uptime, improve reliability and reduce unexpected breakdowns. Scheduled service visits include inspection, adjustment and performance checks, helping to extend the life of your equipment and maintain consistent production performance.
If you're choosing a label printer, the technology matters:
Not sure which suits your application? Our team is happy to advise.
Yes - but labelling machines for use in a washdown area must be designed with hygiene in mind.
Important features include:
ALS can produce complete systems that meet these criteria or - for easy integration into existing washdown lines - the Novexx XLS 204 labeller is available with an IP65 protection kit, making it suitable for washdown environments.
Yes. ALS is part of the Possehl Identification Solutions (PID) Group, comprises of the top manufacturers across Europe and builds labelling systems using their modules and components. Respected brands such as Novexx Solutions, Etipack, Eidos and Logopak so we are very well positioned to be able to assess the right equipment for all applications and recommend suitable solutions.
Our approach is to understand the application first, then advise on the most appropriate machine, including explaining why certain options may not be suitable.
Yes. Labelling machines can be integrated into new or existing production lines, including conveyors, printers, scanners and control systems.
Early consideration of space, line layout and interfaces helps ensure smooth integration and minimal disruption.
When correctly specified and maintained, industrial labelling machines are highly reliable.
Most performance issues arise from machines being incorrectly selected for the application. This is why ALS focuses on understanding how the machine will operate in real production conditions before making a recommendation.
In label production, a cutting tool called a die is used to cut the shape of each label. The die should cut only through the label material (the face stock) and stop cleanly at the backing paper, also known as the release liner.
Die-strike occurs when the die is set too deep and cuts beyond the label material into the backing liner itself.
Instead of just separating the label, the die damages or weakens the liner underneath. This damage may be invisible at first but it compromises the strength of the carrier that holds your labels together on the roll.
Both options are available.
The choice depends on how often label data changes and how your labelling process fits into production.
A print and apply system prints variable data, such as barcodes, dates or batch codes and applies the label automatically to the product or packaging.
These systems are commonly used where information changes frequently and need to integrate reliably into automated production lines.
A semi‑automatic labelling machine requires an operator to present the product, with the machine applying the label. These are typically used for lower volumes or where flexibility is important.
A fully automatic labelling machine applies labels automatically as products move along a conveyor, making it suitable for higher volumes and continuous production.
The correct choice depends on throughput, consistency requirements and available labour.
There isn’t a single labelling machine that suits every application. The right solution depends on what you’re labelling, how the label is applied and how your production line operates.
By understanding factors such as product type, label position, line speed and level of automation, it becomes straightforward to identify the most appropriate labelling solution.
Many labelling machines can be configured to handle a range of product sizes and label formats. However, there are limits.
Understanding the full range of products and labels at the outset helps ensure the machine offers the required flexibility without compromising reliability or performance.
The most common mistake is choosing a machine based on price or catalogue specifications alone.
By focusing on the application first (product, label, speed and environment), unsuitable options can be ruled out early, reducing risk and long‑term cost.
Labelling speeds vary depending on the machine type, application and label format.
Rather than focusing on maximum speed, it’s more important to match the machine to your actual line speed and allow headroom for future increases. Overspecifying can add unnecessary cost; underspecifying can limit production.
To recommend the correct machine, we typically need to understand:
This ensures the machine is suitable not just now, but as production requirements change.
Ongoing support is essential for long‑term performance. This typically includes installation support, training, spare parts availability and access to technical assistance.
At ALS, we support customers throughout the lifecycle of the machine, not just at the point of sale.