Label roll specification
Bottle Labelling Machine Label Roll Specification Worksheet.
Give the label converter and machine supplier one unambiguous roll specification.
Need a bottle labelling machine specified quickly? Send bottle dimensions, label size and output target.
Request specification adviceCall 01494 623015Specify the complete roll, not only the label dimensions.
A bottle labelling machine must handle the label, liner and reel as one web. Two rolls carrying the same visible label can behave differently when web width, core, winding, liner, pitch or registration feature changes. Complete the worksheet before print approval wherever possible.
| Field | What to record | Why the machine supplier needs it |
|---|---|---|
| Label width and length | Dimensions in the orientation presented on the web, plus die-cut shape. | Confirms head capacity, dispense geometry and usable position on the pack. |
| Pitch and gap | Repeat distance, gap size or registration feature. | Supports label sensing and feed calculation. |
| Web width | Total liner width and label position across the web. | Confirms reel and web-path capacity and lateral alignment. |
| Core diameter | Inside diameter and core material where relevant. | Confirms reel mounting compatibility. |
| Roll outside diameter | Maximum finished reel diameter and approximate label quantity. | Confirms available reel space and expected roll-change frequency. |
| Unwind direction | Inside or outside wound, label face orientation and leading edge. | Ensures the artwork reaches the applicator in the correct direction. |
| Face stock and adhesive | Paper or film construction, transparency, adhesive reference and print/varnish details. | Affects sensing, stiffness, dispense, wipe-down and suitability for the bottle surface. |
| Liner | Material, thickness or supplier reference and registration marks if used. | Affects release and the sensing method, especially for transparent labels. |
| Artwork and variable data | Front datum, print orientation, barcode, code area and any pre-print window. | Links mechanical label position to the approved presentation and coding system. |
Attach evidence to the worksheet
- A dimensioned label drawing and current artwork PDF.
- A winding diagram showing the leading edge and which side faces out.
- A physical production-equivalent roll or converter sample where available.
- A marked bottle showing label height, start position, overlap, gap or front/rear relationship.
- Face stock, adhesive and liner references supplied by the converter.
- The smallest and largest rolls expected in production.
Clear and metallic labels
State how the label gap will be detected. Transparent labels may require a suitable sensor technology or a repeatable registration feature. Metallic areas, heavy print and liner variation can also affect detection. Reserve sufficient production-equivalent material for trials rather than relying on a short hand sample.
Change control
Record changes to label size, liner, adhesive, artwork orientation, core or winding. A procurement substitution can alter machine behaviour even when the visible artwork looks unchanged. Keep the approved roll specification with the machine format record.
Use the label roll direction guide and unwind direction checklist before artwork approval, then use the clear-label sensing guide where transparent constructions are involved.
Send the full roll specification with the bottle.
Lancing can review the reel, web, sensor and artwork orientation before the machine route is finalised.
Keep bottle measurements separate from the final reel specification.
Bottle diameter, circumference or panel size helps establish the intended label dimensions. The machine still needs a separate reel specification covering pitch, web, core, outside diameter, liner, gap or registration feature, winding and artwork leading edge.
- Mark the intended label zone. Identify the stable straight wall or panel and the clearances needed from changing geometry.
- Calculate or measure the label path. Use an actual circumference for round packs where possible; record panel dimensions and datum for flat, oval or shaped packs.
- Agree the finished label dimensions. The brand owner and label converter should confirm artwork, gap or overlap, bleed, cutter tolerance and the usable area for barcodes or variable data.
- Convert the label into reel data. Add pitch, web width, core, outside diameter, liner, gap, winding and artwork orientation for the machine supplier.
- Approve production-equivalent samples. A drawing and calculator do not prove release, sensing, adhesion or finished-pack appearance.
Start with the bottle label size calculator and measurement guide, then retain this worksheet with the approved artwork and machine format record.
Send the bottle measurement and reel specification together.
This lets Lancing check the physical pack, label construction and machine loading direction as one application.