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Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips for Tube Labeling Machines

October 27, 2025

Tube labeling machines are essential equipment in pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries. To ensure consistent and stable operation, this guide will provide systematic troubleshooting solutions and key daily maintenance practices.

1. Common Failures and Solutions

1.1 Label Misalignment

Issue Description: Labels are tilted or positioned incorrectly.

Solution Steps:

  1. Check and readjust the alignment of the labeling head.
  2. Ensure the tube guide rail is firmly fixed.
  3. Recalibrate machine operating parameters.

Prevention Tip: When changing tube sizes, always update the dimension parameters in the system.

1.2 Label Jamming

Issue Description: Labels get stuck during the feeding or transport process.

Handling Steps:

  1. Stop the machine immediately for inspection.
  2. Clean adhesive residue from rollers.
  3. Reinstall the label roll and adjust the tension properly.

Storage Requirement: Labels should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent adhesive deterioration.

1.3 Printing Defects

Issue Description: Printed text is blurry or barcodes are unreadable.

Solution Methods:

  1. Clean the print head.
  2. Check ink levels or the condition of the thermal transfer ribbon.
  3. Adjust print head pressure.

Special Reminder: Thermal printers require regular replacement of the ribbon film.

1.4 Tube Feeding Issues

Issue Description: Tubes do not feed smoothly.

Troubleshooting Methods:

  1. Adjust the alignment of the tube feeder.
  2. Clean the conveyor rollers.
  3. Synchronize tube feeding speed with labeling speed.

Routine Maintenance: Clean the feeding track weekly.

1.5 Poor Label Adhesion

Issue Description: Labels fall off easily.

Inspection Steps:

  1. Confirm that label adhesive is compatible with the tube material.
  2. Check heating temperature if using hot melt glue.
  3. Ensure the tube surface is clean and free of oil or moisture.

Important Tip: Always ensure the tube surface is dry and clean before labeling.

2. Equipment Maintenance Schedule

Daily Maintenance

  • Clean rollers and sensors
  • Check pneumatic system pressure
  • Test emergency stop function

Weekly Maintenance

  • Lubricate moving parts
  • Check conveyor belt tension
  • Clean the printing system

Monthly Maintenance

  • Replace worn parts
  • Perform a full equipment calibration
  • Back up system data

3. Preventive Management Measures

  • Ensure precise debugging during initial equipment installation
  • Conduct regular operator training (recommended every quarter)
  • Establish maintenance records to track machine status
  • Stock essential spare parts to reduce downtime

By implementing these maintenance strategies, overall equipment efficiency can be significantly improved. For complex technical issues, it is recommended to contact the equipment supplier’s professional technical support team.

If you would like to learn more tube labeling machine maintenance tips or need professional service, feel free to contact us. We are currently offering promotional discounts on equipment maintenance — inquire now!