Laser codes for wine bottling line combine with print-and-apply traded unit labelling

Bodegas Franco-Españolas in Spain is integrating coding on bottles with its downstream coding and labelling of cases and pallets, with technology recommended by Macsa ID.

Located in the Rioja region in the north of Spain, the winery partnered with the supplier to automate its coding, marking, and labelling processes, aiming to improve traceability and operational efficiency, among other tangible benefits.

The resulting installation includes Macsa CO2 lasers marking the bottle shoulders at 12,000 per hour, Macsa idBlocks 4020 print-and-apply attaching a label containing product information and a datamatrix code on to the cases at speeds up to 2,000 cases per hour and an idBlocks 6015 applying a label to two faces of the pallet.

All of this is seamlessly integrated with the winery's existing production line, explains managing director of Macsa ID UK Rob Williams.

“Before implementing Macsa ID's solution, traceability was managed manually, leading to inefficiencies,” he says. “The new system not only enhanced compliance but also provided commercial security, preventing sales conflicts among distributors.”

The benefits have not stopped there. “This upgrade not only enhanced the precision and durability of product markings but also aligned with the winery's commitment to sustainability by reducing the use of consumables,” says Williams.

Macsa ID emphasises how traditional coding methods, such as inkjet printing, depend on consumables like inks and solvents, which generate waste and contribute to environmental pollution. This is in contrast with non-contact laser marking, which not only results in a cleaner production environment but also significantly reduces industrial waste, the company argues.

The supplier also points to the precision and speed of laser coding, making it ideal for high-volume beverage production lines. Laser can produce permanent, high-quality marks on various packaging materials, including glass, PET, and aluminum, and also boasts low maintenance requirements, reducing downtime and, over time, operational costs.

With the company’s print-and-apply systems able to integrate barcodes, QR codes, and other essential data into labels, the integration of these downstream capabilities with laser marking enhances inventory management, says Macsa ID, and supports quality control initiatives.

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