Printing Thermal Transfer Labels
Thermal transfer label printing is a very sophisticated technology that uses heat to melt a wax or wax-resin ink, directly onto a paper or plastic label. These labels are most frequently used for bar coding labels for shipping, pricing, identification and patient wristbands in hospitals. This high quality process produces a superior line that is easily read by scanners with little room for error.
Most thermal transfer labels come in standardized sizes of 4”, 6” and 8” wide. The printers use a fix-width thermal print head and specifically matched film, which is driven through the printer. The entire surface of the paper or plastic is covered by the film, which makes it ideal for labels but not well suited for larger applications. Matching the correct ribbon and label combination is vital to the performance of the thermal transfer printer. For this reason, purchasing products that have been produced by name brand companies with reliable reputations is vital. When label and ribbon combinations are perfectly matched, this process produces a label that can last for extremely long periods of time without fading or smudging. A miss-matched label and ribbon combination can result in illegible printing or low-resolution barcodes. Barcodes must follow strict rules and maintain a long shelf life. Using the right combination of wax, resin and media, the thermal printer can produce a label that will last indefinitely. The right combinations can also create extremely high-resolution lines for small labels that can be used to identify micro circuitry. The need for finely printed and durable labels increases, almost daily.
Plastic labels can also be coated to withstand contact with chemicals or harsh temperatures and ultraviolet exposure. Polyester and polypropylene labels must also be compatible with adhesives that withstand chemicals or water and still cling to oily or uneven surfaces. These kinds of labels are most often used to identify hazardous materials or other materials that are stored outdoors.
While this type of labeling system is more difficult to use than direct thermal printing, which uses no ink or resin, and is much more lightweight and portable, the thermal heat transfer lasts longer and withstands more environmental pressures, making it much more desirable in the long run.
Direct thermal printing, which uses heat and a chemically treated media to print directly onto the fabric or product, is much easier to use and the label is permanent. Unfortunately, the printing tends to fade with time and exposure and can be defaced by scratching or rubbing; making it less than ideal for long-term use. This method is definitely preferable for short tern applications such as event tickets, visitor identification badges and bar codes for quickly selling items or large volumes of rapidly moving
Thermal transfer label printing products. Direct heat transfer is also ideal for use in clothing: there are no sewn labels to cause discomfort or distort the fall of the material. These labels stay attached, are not cut or torn off and are appreciated by consumer while maintaining the maker’s identity.
Thermal ribbons can be purchased in different combination of wax and resin, depending on the material the labels will be used on and the life expectancy of the product. One consideration of the type of ribbon used is the need to produce a fine line verses the need for durability. A combination of wax and resin printed on a paper label will create a high-resolution image that can be reduced or enlarged when reproduced without losing clarity, but must be protected from moisture and light. Pure resins dissolve into the label material, such as plastic or polypropylene, and will last indefinitely. These labels are often used in the automotive and electronic industries. New technologies are also working to develop thermal printers with even higher resolution.
When deciding which printers and labels are right for your company’s needs, Zebra thermal transfer labels are unsurpassed in quality and design. Zebra has continued to stay in the forefront of this highly competitive market by continually improving and upgrading products. This company uses only the finest materials and sophisticated technology to ensure labels that can withstand high print speeds and temperatures without compromising clarity. These paper and plastic labels come with a variety of characteristics for labeling everything from paper to steel while also providing the correct coatings and adhesives for completing the job. Their Internet site provides easy to understand, personalized information on label types and materials and their inventory is always up to date.
Zebra can also design custom-order labels and tags, and recommend the appropriate glues and adhesives for either permanent or temporary applications. Logos and colors can be faithfully reproduced to provide a high quality, professional product and turnover time is short. The people there are dedicated to seeing that each order, whether standard or customized, is met with satisfaction. Zebra continues to set the bar in label production.