What is the best type of water activated tape dispenser?

Investing in a water activated tape dispenser is an effective way to enhance your packing operation. These machines offer reliable sealing and packaging solutions for various products. A state-of-the-art water activated tape dispenser functions like a strong adhesive, boosting the effectiveness and efficiency of your packed items. It's essential to understand the mechanics of a water activated tape dispenser if you are new to the packaging industry. This article will cover how tape dispensers operate, how to use shipping tape dispensers, and will suggest different types of tape dispensers suitable for your needs.

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Who should use a dispenser for water activated tapes?

How is the adhesive on our packaging tape activated?

When you utilize water activated gummed packing tape, it is crucial to wet the adhesive side (the non-printed side) before applying it to your package. You can either use a damp sponge or opt for a gummed tape machine or dispenser.

For further details on how to effectively use water activated tape, check our article: How to use water activated tape and top 3 tips to apply it right.

Pros and cons of using water activated tapes with and without a machine

If you are uncertain whether to invest in a water activated tape dispenser, it's wise to assess the pros and cons of using either sponge or machine methods.

Sponge method

Pros

• Economical
• Appropriate for users handling low volume packing
• Portable and easy to relocate for sealing

Cons

• Requires careful pressure management; excessive pressure can lead to too much adhesive removal, reducing tape efficiency
• Time-consuming for extensive processes, suitable only for low-volume use

Dispenser method

Manual dispenser

Pros

• Cost-effective when compared to electric tape dispensers
• Operates without electricity
• Ideal for packing stations requiring mobility
• Increases packing and shipping efficacy
• Perfect for stations managing low to medium volume
• Minimal operator training needed

Cons

• Requires some manual effort to function

Electric dispensers

Pros:

• The most efficient approach to packing and shipping
• Best for high-volume, high-speed packing needs
• Built to last
• Customizable settings
• Improves employee safety

Cons:

• Operator training may be necessary
• More expensive than manual alternatives
• Requires electrical power to operate

So, who should use a water activated tape dispenser?

As a general principle, consider purchasing a water activated tape dispenser if you regularly pack more than a few hundred cartons daily or anticipate rapid growth in your packing operations.

In summary, a water activated tape dispenser is worthwhile if your shipping department handles a significant volume of packages regularly. The increase in productivity and security at your packing and shipping hub will justify the additional investment.

4 types of dispensers for water activated tapes

1. Packer 3S

The Packer 3S is a manual water activated tape dispenser designed for ease of use and portability. To activate the dispenser, simply fill the front-facing water reservoir. After loading the tape into the device, you can wet the adhesive using a water brush, followed by cutting it with the attached blade.

With Packer 3S, you get quick access to tape at the lowest cost. This wet tape dispenser enhances the sponge technique but is ideal for handling up to ten packages at a time.

2. BP 333

BP 333 tape dispensers also fall into the manual category. Although less portable than the Packer 3S, it remains easy to transport. Once operational, it is user-friendly.

Featuring a large water tank, it can wet a significant amount of tape before requiring a refill. The advanced brushes and pressure plate ensure complete coverage of the tape for maximum adhesion.

Loading the tape is simple, and the length can be adjusted with ease using the left-hand mechanism. Just pull the lever to release, and cut.

Among manual water activated tape dispensers, the BP 333 stands out as efficient and cost-effective relative to automated options.

3. BP 555

The BP 555 (including PB 555eS and PB 555eSA series) is an advanced electronic water activated packing tape dispenser. Setting up the machine is straightforward, and its operation is intuitive. Loading and unloading tape is hassle-free due to the large opening. It boasts a spacious water tank with a leak-proof design and an integrated water heater.

This machine dispenses tape quickly, ensuring strong adhesion due to thorough moistening.

Users can specify the desired length using the left-hand numbers. For custom lengths, additional controls allow for adjustments, and users can even manually feed tape by simply pressing and holding a button. The repeat option simplifies dispensing for repetitive tasks.

The BP 555's customization features and adaptable design make it a top choice among water activated tape dispensers.

4. BP 755

The BP 755 water activated tape dispenser (including BP 755eS and BP 755eSA series) is an electronic model featuring a large top hatch for easy loading and a low-profile design.

However, it's important to note that the BP 755 lacks a sealed top, which the BP 555 has, making it more challenging to fill and remove water without spills.

This model includes a built-in water heater accessible via the top hatch.

It comes with a user-friendly keypad offering 20 preset tape lengths and can be adjusted from 4 inches to 125 inches wide. If the desired length isn’t listed, this dispenser allows you to customize by pressing the 'Select' button.

By removing the separator at the bottom of the machine and inserting it into the body, you can cut two narrow tapes simultaneously.

Simple to set up and operate, this dispenser does not have a steep learning curve. Once loaded and filled, it dispenses, moistens, and cuts tape precisely to your desired length.

Which water activated tape dispenser is best for your packaging needs?

To determine the best water activated tape dispenser for your requirements, refer to the following comparison of the four dispensers based on three key factors:

FeaturesPacker 3SBP 333BP 555BP 755 Typesmanual tape dispensermanual tape dispenserelectronic tape dispenserelectronic tape dispenser Pricesleast expensive (about $110)higher end of manual tape dispensers (about $430)mid-range of electronic tape dispensers (about $1,000)high-range of electronic tape dispensers (about $1,300) Ideal forLess than 10 boxes per daybetween 1 and 100 cartons per daymore than 100 cartons per daymore than 100 cartons per day

Pros

• Simplistic and affordable
• Portable and does not require electricity
• Reliable and sturdy design
• Does not need electricity
• 15 preset tape lengths available
• Handles high volumes with speed
• Comes with computer interface features
• Equipped with an integrated water heater
• Safety features included
• Supports up to 4-inch wide tape
• Dispenses up to 100 inches long
• Double brush moistening
• Features a top heater

Cons

• Suitable only for smaller offices
• Pricier than Packer 3S
• Needs minimal effort to operate
• Takes time to learn usage
• Costs more than the BP 555
• Less efficient than the BP 555

After reviewing the data above, here are our recommendations:

• If your output is below 50 boxes daily, the Packer 3S is the best choice.
• For shipping up to 100 boxes daily, go with the BP 333.
• If over 100 parcels are shipped daily, especially with varied sizes, the BP 555 is a smart investment.
• We don’t recommend the BP 755 unless its low profile is essential. Although it costs more than BP 555, it is less efficient and features fewer functions.

Conclusion

A water activated tape dispenser is undoubtedly one of the key tools required for efficiently packing your items. When selecting a tape dispenser, it is crucial to choose one that meets your specific operational needs. At EAGLE, we hope this guide helps you identify the most suitable tape dispenser for your products and daily business requirements.

Are you interested in learning more about Automatic Tape Dispenser? Contact us today for expert consultation!