The common core sizes
Most label applicators and desktop dispensers in South Africa take one of three cores: 25 mm, 40 mm or 76 mm inside diameter. Small thermal and desktop printers usually want 25 mm or 40 mm. Semi-automatic and automatic applicators on production lines mostly run 76 mm cores. A roll wound on the wrong core simply will not go onto the spindle, so the job has to be rewound.
Outside diameter and labels per roll
The outside diameter of the roll limits how many labels fit on it. A desktop dispenser might only take a roll of 120 mm across, while a line applicator can take 300 mm or more. Customers often ask for a number of labels per roll without knowing their machine limit, so check both before printing.
- Ask for the core inside diameter the applicator needs
- Ask for the maximum outside roll diameter
- Confirm labels per roll and the total quantity
- Confirm wind direction and which edge leads off the roll
Wind direction
Labels can come off the roll with the copy leading head first, foot first, or from either side, and wound face in or face out. Applicators and hand dispensers expect a particular direction. Getting it wrong means the customer has to rewind every roll by hand, or the labels go on upside down. Keep a simple wind direction chart at the rewinder and tick it on the job card.
Making it part of the workflow
Short runs only make money when they run without remakes. Add core size, roll diameter and wind direction as required fields on your quote form. Stock 25 mm, 40 mm and 76 mm cores so you are not waiting on a supplier. Our team in Midrand can help you set up a rewinder and slitter that handles all three, and supply matching label stock for your printer.
