Abstract: A label applicator system is described comprising one or more, and preferably two, assemblies of rollers and belts. The assemblies are arranged relative to one another such that at least a portion of the belts of each assembly are aligned with one another to define an article receiving lane. The assemblies are arranged and configured such that the lane extends in a zig- zag path, a relatively straight path, and/or an arcuate path. Selection of the lane geometry along with appropriate control of belt velocities enable high rates of applying labels to articles and particularly containers having compound curves.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing matrix material from a web of cut adhesive backed labels. A matrix stripping apparatus comprises a rotating cylinder for receiving a web of cut adhesive labels, a source for applying an electrostatic charge to the web of cut adhesive labels, and a separation member to facilitate separation of the matrix from a web comprising cut labels and a release liner. Applying an electrostatic charge to the web assists in holding the web against the rotating cylinder and relieves tension in the separation and removal of the matrix material.

Abstract: A label applicator system is described comprising one or more, and preferably two, assemblies of rollers and belts. The assemblies are arranged relative to one another such that at least a portion of the belts of each assembly are aligned with one another to define an article receiving lane. The assemblies are arranged and configured such that the lane extends in a zig-zag path, a relatively straight path, and/or an arcuate path. Selection of the lane geometry along with appropriate control of belt velocities enable high rates of applying labels to articles and particularly containers having compound curves.

Abstract: A label applicator system is described comprising one or more, and preferably two, assemblies of rollers and belts. The assemblies are arranged relative to one another such that at least a portion of the belts of each assembly are aligned with one another to define an article receiving lane. The assemblies are arranged and configured such that the lane extends in a zig-zag path, a relatively straight path, and/or an arcuate path. Selection of the lane geometry along with appropriate control of belt velocities enable high rates of applying labels to articles and particularly containers having compound curves.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing matrix material from a web of cut adhesive backed labels. A matrix stripping apparatus comprises a rotating cylinder for receiving a web of cut adhesive labels, a source for applying an electrostatic charge to the web of cut adhesive labels, and a separation member to facilitate separation of the matrix from a web comprising cut labels and a release liner. Applying an electrostatic charge to the web assists in holding the web against the rotating cylinder and relieves tension in the separation and removal of the matrix material.

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: A label applicator system is described comprising one or more, and preferably two, assemblies of rollers and belts. The assemblies are arranged relative to one another such that at least a portion of the belts of each assembly are aligned with one another to define an article receiving lane. The assemblies are arranged and configured such that the lane extends in a zig-zag path, a relatively straight path, and/or an arcuate path. Selection of the lane geometry along with appropriate control of belt velocities enable high rates of applying labels to articles and particularly containers having compound curves.

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: A deformable label processor and related methods are described. The processor is heated and urged against a label, such as a pressure sensitive heat shrink label, to apply the label onto a container or other surface. The processor and methods are well suited for application of labels onto compound curved surfaces. Also described are high volume label application processes using assemblies of multiple label processors. Additional assemblies and methods are described for selectively contacting and adhering regions of a label onto a moving container during labeling operations. Select regions of a label can be wiped to modify or alter label portions that are in contact and not in contact with the container. A label treatment process performed after label application is also disclosed. The treatment process reduces the occurrence of label defects and improves label retention, adherence and aesthetics. The treatment process includes heating an applied label and adhesive to a particular temperature.

Abstract: A deformable label processor and related methods are described. The processor is heated and urged against a label, such as a heat transfer label, to apply one or more designs from the label onto a container or other surface. The processor and methods are well suited for application of labels onto compound curved surfaces. Also described are high volume label application processes using assemblies of multiple label processors. Additional assemblies and methods are described for selectively contacting and adhering regions of a label onto a moving container during labeling operations.

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: A oil and moisture absorbent material suitable for use in food packages and a food package made of such material. The material comprises an oil and moisture absorbent layer covered by an oil and moisture repellent substance that has a multiplicity of perforations or which is applied in a pattern so that oil and moisture can pass through. Alternatively, the oil and moisture absorbent layer may be covered by an oil and moisture permeable substance. The oil and moisture absorbent layer may have indentations and additives that improve its oil and moisture absorbency. The oil and moisture absorbent layer may be made of a paperboard that is manufactured using a reduced level of calendering and having a reduced amount of sizing applied.

Abstract: Cellulose-polymer composites characterized by the cellulose component being thoroughly encapsulated by the polymer component, varying density which allows high strength over a wide range of temperatures and generally low weight are provided. Composites may be extruded or coextruded into a variety of products including wood-like decking materials with natural wood coloring and texture. Processes related to the manufacture of the composites are also provided.