Winding direction, simply explained
If you want to apply the adhesive labels with an automatic labeling machine, you will need labels on a roll. When ordering online, you will be able to configure all the roll specifications. In order for you to receive adhesive labels compatible with your machine, it is important that you indicate the winding direction and the output direction.
The winding direction indicates how the adhesive labels should go on the roll during production. These can have the label side facing in or out of the roll.
Therefore, the unwind direction can be:
- internal
- external
The second fundamental parameter for a labeling machine is the label output direction, i.e. which part of the label should come out first during unwinding. There are 4 different output directions:
- Standing exit
- Head exit
- Exit left
- Exit right
By combining the orientation and output of the labels on the roll, you can obtain 8 different combinations. See the image below to make sure you choose the correct winding direction and output that best suits your machine. Questions? You can reach us by telephone on +34 932716400 or by email: info@etiqueta.es.
Roll labels are usually used in automatic processes, i.e. they are applied mechanically to the products. For this reason, in roll label production it is important to know the requirements of the labeling machine and to set up the rolls properly.
Main parameters to be taken into account:
Roll outside diameter
The maximum external diameter that you can select through our calculator is 350 mm. On your request, we can also produce rolls with a larger diameter. In addition, you can choose whether to indicate the size of the roll or the number of labels per roll. Defining the maximum roll diameter is important to ensure that the roll is fully compatible with your labeling machine. If you do not indicate any preference, the rolls will be prepared optimizing ecological and economical criteria.
Mandrel diameter
The standard mandrel diameter is 76 mm (inside diameter).
We also offer 40 mm and 25 mm mandrels. Choosing the right mandrel diameter is especially important for automatic labeling, as the size must fit your machine perfectly. If, on the other hand, you apply the labels manually, it is not necessary to indicate the mandrel diameter.
Winding orientation
If you want to process your adhesive labels on rolls automatically, it is important that you know which winding direction your machine requires. There are two main types:
- Inner winding (printed side inward)
- Outer winding (printed side facing outward)
In addition, the output direction of the label on the roll must also be defined. Four options are available:
- Standing exit
- Head exit
- Exit left
- Exit right
Label height and width
It is important that you indicate the final format of the label, regardless of the indent.
Width and height are defined by looking at the label as it will be applied to the product. Example: If you need die-cut labels of 50 x 100 mm (W x H), enter these measurements in our calculator. However, in the print file you should consider a format of 55 x 105 mm, including bleed.
Label spacing
It is the distance between two consecutive labels on the backing strip.
This value may vary depending on how the labels are to be handled and applied.
Standard: we produce with 5 mm of space between labels. If required, we can also produce rolls with reduced spacing, although we recommend a minimum of 3 mm to avoid compromising the automatic handling and peeling of the backing.
Lateral margin
The side margin indicates the edge of the backing (trägerband) that protrudes beyond the edges of the labels. This value is only relevant for the production of adhesive labels on rolls.
For A4 sheet production, this is not important.
- Standard: 2.5 mm margin per side (5 mm total)
- Recommended minimum: 1.5 mm per side (3 mm total)
A wider margin can be requested if needed. Caution: if the margin is less than 1.5 mm per side, problems may occur when peeling off the excess material.
Questions? You can reach us by telephone on +34 932716400 or by email: info@etiqueta.es.