SLX Shrink Sleeve Applicator - Applying Sleeves to Printed Beer Cans

Overview
The SLX high‑speed shrink sleeve applicator is engineered for peak efficiency and ease of use, making it one of the most advanced single‑head in‑line systems for today’s beverage producers. In this video, the SLX applies shrink sleeves to printed beer cans, demonstrating precise placement at elevated speeds and stable operation across long production runs.

Performance & Control

• Up to 800 containers per minute (application‑dependent) driven by a Rockwell CompactLogix 5380 controller for fast, coordinated motion.
• Improved web‑tensioning system delivers precise film control at high speeds to reduce waste and maintain label quality.
• A unique digital format monitoring system helps ensure quick, error‑free changeovers and consistent results across SKUs.
• The S.L.T. film delivery system can handle thin films down to 25 microns, helping reduce material usage while maintaining performance.

Changeovers & Handling

• Tool‑less container changeovers typically completed in less than ten minutes to minimize downtime.
• Dual‑segment feedscrews with independent servo control provide smooth infeed handling and stable registration—especially important at high throughput.

Sleeving Flexibility

• Supports both full‑body sleeves and tamper‑evident bands with operating ranges of 5 to 800 containers per minute, depending on application.
• Compatible with thin‑gauge film handling options to maintain speed and efficiency with the thinnest materials.

Integration & Tunnel Options

• Integrates cleanly with upstream/downstream equipment, conveyors, inspection, and line control.
• High‑performance heat shrink tunnels are available in hot‑air, infrared, and steam configurations to match container geometry and sleeve materials.
• Digital recipe parameter control ensures correct machine settings after changeover, while Ethernet communications support fast business systems interface and remote monitoring.

For breweries and co‑packers seeking maximum line efficiency, premium graphic coverage, and repeatable quality on aluminum cans, the SLX offers a robust, high‑speed solution that scales with production demand.

What line speeds can the SLX achieve?
Depending on container and sleeve material, the SLX supports application speeds up to 800 containers per minute.

Can the SLX handle very thin sleeve films?
Yes. The S.L.T. film delivery system supports film thicknesses down to 25 microns, with options for thin‑gauge handling to maintain speed and efficiency.

How long do format or container changeovers take?
Typical tool‑less changeovers are completed in under ten minutes, supported by digital format monitoring and recipe control.

What helps ensure stable, accurate sleeve placement at high speeds?
Improved web tensioning, dual‑segment feedscrews with independent servo control, and Rockwell CompactLogix 5380 motion control provide consistent, repeatable results.

What shrink tunnel technologies are available?
Axon offers hot‑air, infrared, and steam shrink tunnels to accommodate different sleeve materials and container geometries.

Can the SLX integrate with our existing canning line?
Yes. The SLX is designed for seamless integration and supports Ethernet communications for remote monitoring and business systems connectivity.