Fewer stoppages and less waste with automatically applied tire barcodes

Bead label automation typically refers to dispensers or applicators that are able to automatically dispense and/or apply labels without the need for manual labor. These are systems designed to make production a lot easier, while also ensuring that your throughput rates are increased and the accuracy of identification and tracking is consistently reliable.

The largest benefit of bead barcode label automation is placement accuracy, as the need for tires to be automatically scanned downstream is non-negotiable, and the bead label is the tire’s only source of identity.

Tire barcode label automation has the ability to be fully integrated alongside your tire build machine to move towards a completely automated process in your facility. The tire industry is quickly transforming to automation in every area possible as throughput is high and accurate identification is crucial. We have several base models that we often leverage when working directly with tire manufacturers to create the perfect barcode automation solution for their plant.

Options for Tire Barcode Automation

*Costs will vary and depend on customization and service levels, volume, and consumables

How can barcode automation fit into my existing tire build process?

To reap the highest value to your process, it would only make sense that a standalone manual process not simply be replaced with an automated standalone process. That said, there is almost always some design and development work that needs to happen in order for automation to integrate into and complement your existing tire build process. 

Here is what the design & development process entails, should you continue to explore barcode automation options:

1. A Product Manager will reach out for an initial conversation. The purpose of this discussion is to learn which of the reasons above sparked your interest in tire barcode automation, in addition to understanding any associated goals or challenges that could be also be addressed through label automation. This is also the time for you to qualify us and ask questions!

2. The barcode label evaluation step is next as we’ll need to be sure that we align the labeling strategy with that of the automation. Not all labels are created equal, and not all labels are plug-and-play as it relates to label applicators. There is a chance that with the qualification of automation, you may also need to consider and qualify new labels. Not to worry, as our teams are experts as it relates to pairing labels with automation to achieve optimal results.

3. Next, we’ll put our heads together to determine how we can actually make barcode label applicators work in your facility. Elements like where the applicators will be physically located on the line, and at what stage in the build process labels are required to be applied are common discussion topics. We typically start with base-model printer or applicator systems and customize from there, so having a really good handle on your process and goals is critical before we can go away and put together proper design concepts.

4. The next bit relies heavily on our engineering team. They will take all the notes gathered and actually put together a concept for your barcode label applicator. It is also at this stage that price can be discussed, since there is now something tangible to speak to. The concept and price will then be presented back to you for feedback. It is not uncommon at all for several modifications or versions to go back and forth in order to perfect the design. 

5. Pending the concept meets your expectations and the business case is justified, the next step is manufacturing production. We’ll provide you with a clear timeline, and will get to work!

6. Next stop, no more manually applying tire barcode labels!

What will tire barcode automation help you accomplish?

Bead label automation should give you an easy option to increase the productivity in your manufacturing plant by increasing throughput, as well of quality of the work. Time is money, and the addition of bead label automation saves you notable amounts of time and labor that you will now have the ability to invest elsewhere.

Consistent Throughput:

• If your plant has a high throughput rate, automation is likely a shift you have or should be considering. Automation offers huge time savings and improved ability to forecast true turn-times in the plant and also allows for skilled employees to be doing more valuable tasks.

• It is extremely important in the tire bead labeling process that precision placement exists. It becomes an inefficient process if every time the tire goes through a different stage of the manufacturing process, an operator has to manually shift the tire for scanning. Automatic label applicators offer precision placement, so tires can simply move through the workflow in a ‘conveyor’ like manner and have ensured scanning capabilities.

Future Proofing:

• As the industry moves more toward interconnectedness and automated systems, barcode automation supports that shift. As the tread label can be auto-sourced straight from the barcode itself, keeping these processes aligned and accurate is imperative to data transfer for later logistics and retaining.

Waste and rework reduction:

• As a result of more accurate and consistent barcode placement, more tires are able to seamlessly make their way through operations, reducing the amount of tires needing rework, corrective action, or tossing.

How Does Automatic Barcode Label Application Compare to Manual?

As is true in most cases having to do with automation, the benefits of accuracy, consistency, and efficiency almost always outweigh and outperform those of manual. Barcode label automation is no exception.

Justifying barcode automation:

The primary rationale behind implementation of bead label automation is driven as a result of downstream scanning. As most tire manufacturing facilities rely solely on the barcode to drive and manage operations, automated scanning is imperative to achieve lean operations. 

If waste or rework as a result of unscannable labels due to inconsistent label placement is a reality in your plant, barcode label automation may be something worth considering.  

To see the LA3100 Tire Bead Label Applicator in action, take a look at the video.

The see the LA3200 Tire Bead Label Applicator in action, take a look at the video.

To see the LD1000 Tire Label Dispenser in action, take a look at the video.