Expanding Marathon Family of Roll-Fed Labelers Features SMARTdrive

A Digital, Multi-Axis Servomotor Control that Simplifies Operations and Optimizes Performance

08-13-2004 - (Ceres, CA) B&H Labeling Systems announced today that it will introduce its expanded Marathon family of roll-fed labelers at Pack Expo booth # S-1613. The Marathon labelers feature SMARTdrive(TM), a digitally-based motion control system that uses multi-axis, independent servomotors communicating on a high-speed communication bus. Eliminating the gears, belts and chains found in traditional labeling systems, Marathon improves labeling accuracy over the life of the machine and increases production throughput with superior system reliability and faster changeovers.

Marathon is the first labeler to use an all-electronic, servomotor-based approach to completely eliminate a mechanical drive train. This eliminates tedious mechanical adjustments while achieving extreme positional accuracy with absolute feedback. Achieving more consistent performance, B&H guarantees a label cut position of +/- 1/32 inch (0.8 mm) at all machine speeds and a defect rate of less than 0.05 percent.

Unlike traditional labelers that require extensive mechanical adjustments at changeover, SMARTdrive speeds the set-up process eliminating these adjustments. Marathon uses recipe downloads for each new container type and automatically adjusts the machine parameters. Lightweight, color-coded RCO (Rapid Changeover) changeparts further ease changeover. Marathon sets a new standard for container changeover time at less than 15 minutes from one full production speed to the next.

Handling the widest range of containers from 1.5 to 6.7 inches in diameter (38 to 170 mm), Marathon labels containers from less than 8 oz. to 1 gallon in volume.

The SMARTdrive electronic drive train, combined with B&H's in-line layout, contributes to Marathon's compact design. Marathon SL, which labels 50 to 250 containers per minute, requires only 41 ft2 (3.8 m2) of floor space. Marathon SE, which handles up to 350 containers per minute, needs only 46 ft2 (4.2 m2) of floor space.

With this electronic SMARTdrive approach to labeling, B&H was able to design many more automation features into the Marathon labelers, making the labelers far easier for operators. The labelers feature a ten-inch color touchscreen operator interface designed for intuitive use with minimal training. Security access levels for displays, data entry and system operations are configurable on a site-by-site basis by the system administrator.

Built-in intelligence via sensors enables the Marathon labelers to self-monitor 24/7, which greatly simplifies and improves diagnostics, maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs. To maximize the productivity and the efficiency of the labeling operation, B&H offers ProWatch(TM), an advanced productivity monitoring software system that tracks and analyzes several key parameters in real time. Monitoring the labeler and reporting critical data enables packagers to maximize the productivity and the efficiency of the labeling operation.

About B & H Labeling Systems

Since introducing the first viable roll-fed labeling system over 35 years ago, B & H Labeling Systems has been known worldwide for innovation, dependability and responsive customer service. B & H maintains its role as a labeling solutions provider by successfully developing new labelers and applications for multiple industries. B & H maintains global representation to offer service and technical support to its worldwide customer base.