Will my clear labels with clear liner work with the AP360/AP362 or the AP550?

Will my clear labels with clear liner work with the AP360/AP362 or the AP550?

AP360 - AP362 uses a physical flag sensor to detect gaps between labels.  The AP360/362 will work with Clear labels with a clear PET liner in most cases as long as the liner and the label are not too thin and the adhesive isn't too strong.  The danger is that the label will not pop off the liner when it goes around the peel edge. Test it by pulling the label stock around a sharp bend, such as the edge of a table.  As long as it comes off the liner, the flag sensor will measure the physical gap between labels.  You do not need a black mark between labels. 
  1. AP360/AP362 = Black Mark not required
  2. AP360/AP362 = Works with Clear Labels
AP550 uses an optical sensor to detect gaps between labels.  The AP550 will only work with Clear labels with a clear PET liner if a black mark is printed between each label.  You then need to set the sensor mode and calibrate the applicator with the labels to be used.  See section 3.2 of the manual: https://www.primera.com/media/support/Docs/AP550_052615.pdf
  1. AP550 = Black Mark is required
  2. AP550 = Works with Clear Labels if a black mark is printed on the back of the liner.
Important Note: Liner Smoothness will affect feeding - a liner that is too slippery or too thin will slip on the drive rollers. Clear liners are usually the most problematic.  For most labels we recommend a semi-bleached super-calendered kraft liners with the following specs.  Typically clear labels have clear liners so these ideal specs are hard to find.

Basis Weight

48# per ream ± 1 0%

(500 sheets 24" x 36")

Caliper:

0.0028 inches

Tensile:

MD 42# per inch width CD 16# per inch width


Article ID: 052121