NJM, a ProMach product brand, introduces the Bronco® 4 pressure-sensitive labeler at Interphex stand 2353. This next-generation inline, servo-driven system can be configured to apply single, dual, wraparound, and multi-panel labels to round, square, rectangular, and oval bottles in a variety of sizes. Featuring improved operator-focused functionality and updated controls, the Bronco 4 helps manufacturers and contract packers reduce downtime, simplify daily operation, and achieve reliable, consistent labeling across a wide range of applications.
“Bronco 4 is a ground-up redesign that reflects how labeling systems are actually used on packaging lines today,” said Omar Azam, Applications Engineering Manager at NJM. “Rather than making incremental changes, we rethought the system from the operator’s perspective while still meeting the performance, compliance, and validation requirements that manufacturing engineers expect. The result is a labeler that is easy to run, easy to maintain, and aligned with real production demands.”
Running at speeds up to 250 bottles per minute, the Bronco 4 is ideal for manufacturers and packers handling pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, personal care products, food, beverages, and other applications.
Shaped by extensive input from operators, mechanics, and engineers working on real-world production lines, the Bronco 4 addresses common sources of downtime through a redesigned consumables work area that improves access to the label unwind and waste web. A safe-assist toggle allows workers to replenish labels and clear waste web more easily, while early end-of-web detection helps prevent late alarms and label loss. Consolidated adjustment points with improved ergonomics further simplify troubleshooting and reduce changeover time to as little as 10 minutes, depending on the application.
The Bronco 4 features a new user-friendly HMI with role-based screens for different user levels including operators, supervisors, and administrators. Visual fault-zone highlights and descriptive alarms identify what triggered an alert and how to resolve it, helping operators return the line to production without escalating every interruption. When equipped with a PC-based HMI, the Bronco 4 also provides onboard production batch reporting for machine operation, statistics, and OEE. For regulated applications, the labeler enables audit trails and electronic signatures for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, along with secure user access options.
NJM can equip the Bronco 4 with an inline hot stamp printer or a serialization-capable thermal transfer or laser printer to support variable data and regulated labeling requirements. Optional inspection systems verify label accuracy, including placement and printed data, while an optional reject system removes bottles with out-of-tolerance labels. Encoder-based fail-safe reject tracking verifies that rejected labels and containers are accurately detected and removed to help maintain reliable operation and line-level accountability.
With a compact footprint and modular configuration, the Bronco 4 is suited to a wide range of production environments, from clinical trials and startup operations to full-scale manufacturing. Built entirely on NJM’s in-house mechanical and controls design, it features robust, open-frame stainless-steel construction that supports long-term durability, enables easy line clearance, and aligns with cGMP requirements. Non-proprietary Allen-Bradley PLCs, servos, and HMI components help manage overall system costs by simplifying maintenance, spare parts management, and long-term support.
The Bronco 4 is backed by NJM’s comprehensive service organization, including installation, training, validation support, and ongoing technical service. This total-solution approach helps customers achieve faster start-ups, reliable operation, and sustained performance throughout the life of the system.