|
Need BARCODES?
What are Thermal Transfer Paper Labels?
- Paper labels are the most common type, as well as the least expensive type of label for your thermal transfer printer.
- This label will tear.
- Wax ribbon is used to print on a paper label, or wax/resin for certain applications.
- Very economical.
What are Thermal Transfer Polypropylene Labels?
- Polypropylene is also known by the brand name of Kimdura®.
- This material is resistant to moisture tearing, dirt and grease.
- Suitable applications include identification and bar coding for warehouse shelf and bin labels.
- Wax and wax/resin ribbons are used to print on polypropylene labels.
What are Thermal Transfer Mylar Labels?
- Mylar is a brand name for polyester.
- More durable than polypropylene.
- Can withstand higher temperatures and has superior abrasion resistance vs. polypropylene.
- Glossy finish.
- Resin ribbon is used to print on a Mylar/polyester label.
What are Platinum Labels?
- Silver (Platinum) polyester label with extra thick 2 mil acrylic adhesive.
- Often used as an asset label to identify equipment
- Heavy Coat Weight (HCW) adhesive makes this label very difficult to remove.
- Resin ribbon is used to print on Platinum polyester label.
What is a Tag?
- Paper or Synthetic Tag stock that does not have an adhesive
- Synthetic Tags are tear resistant, moisture resistant
- Often used in lumber yards & on wine barrels as an identifier tag
- Can be stapled to wood
How does DIRECT THERMAL printing differ from Thermal Transfer?
- Direct Thermal Labels do NOT require a ribbon.
- Used primarily in applications in which the label life is short, i.e. shipping labels.
- Direct thermal labels can cost 30-35% more per label, however there is no ribbon cost.
- Direct thermal labels are not recommended for applications in which there is prolonged exposure to UV, fluorescent, or sunlight.
- Direct thermal offers fewer options in label materials than thermal transfer.
What are some of my other options?
- Custom adhesives are available on a selection of our products (freezer grade, removable, aggressive)
- Piggyback labels.
Does Label Roll Size Matter?
Yes, the outside diameter of a roll of labels, as well as the inside diameter of the core the labels are wound on, both are very significant. Some printers can only use label rolls with a 1 inch i.d. core, and a 4-5 inch maximum o.d. Many of the Eltron printers, the Datamax E-Class printers, and the Zebra TLP-2844 have this requirement. The most common roll dimensions are 3 inch i.d. and 8 inch o.d. These are for the printers sometimes called "Industrial Class" like the Datamax I-4208, Zebra Z4M, and many others. Other wind options are sometimes available, like 1.5 inch i.d. or "labels wound in".
Does One Ribbon Fit All?
No, the inside diameter of the thermal transfer ribbon core might be 1" or smaller. Also, the core diameter plus the length of the ribbon determine the outside diameter, and there are many combinations of core i.d. and ribbon length for thermal transfer printers.
Still Have Questions?
See our Media Page, browse the rest of ablelabel.com, or contact our friendly, knowledgeable staff at 1-800-348-1455!
We highly recommend that you test all labels and ribbons in the end use application before purchasing. Sample ribbons and labels are usually available at no charge upon request.
Please Contact us for your specific label requirements.
|
|
