Thermal labels are the perfect solution for printing information on demand such as barcodes, ingredients and dates. There are two methods to consider, each with their own advantages; direct thermal and thermal transfer.
Choosing the right thermal option requires matching application requirements with the capabilities of your printer. We’ve created the table below to explain the basics and compare the two methods. Our team of experts would be glad to assist further with your thermal label and ribbon requirements.
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Direct Thermal
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Thermal Transfer
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| How it works |
- Direct thermal materials have a chemical layer applied to a paper or synthetic base that is activated by heat.
- When the label is printed through a direct thermal printer the small elements on the printer heat up and activate parts of the chemical layer to create the image required.
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The labels are printed through a thermal transfer printer where, at the point of the print head, a layer of ribbon is placed on top of the label.
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The print head elements heat up and cause the carbon pigment that is on the ribbon to transfer to the label, creating the required image.
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| Typical label applications |
- Short-to-medium-life applications
- Direct thermal paper labels are best for retail, logistics and other industries where the label is not exposed to high heat or moisture levels after the label has been applied.
- Direct thermal synthetics are a good choice for carton and retail pack labelling in the chilled and frozen food sectors where the labels are exposed to high levels of moisture and rough handling during transportation.
Examples:
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- Long-life applications
- Thermal transfer paper labels are a good choice where direct thermal is not suitable or the print quality of the ribbon is preferred.
- Thermal transfer synthetic labels are suitable for outdoor labelling and applications where high levels of moisture or scuffing are expected.
Examples:
- Laboratory labels
- Inventory identification labels
- Industrial and chemical labels
- Warehouse shelf labels
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| Advantages |
- Simple to use; a ribbon is not required as it images directly onto the label
- Used in most printers
- Cost effective
- Greater productivity due to no ribbon changeovers
- Clear and consistent images for good readability and scannability
- Suitable for both 1D and 2D barcodes
- Paper and synthetic material options available
- The quality, stability and durability of the image is suitable for most common requirements
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- Excellent print definition for text, images and barcodes
- Ideal for small characters and line work
- Suitable for both 1D and 2D barcodes
- Wide variety of paper and synthetic materials available including clear, pearl, metalised, and fluorescent
- Coloured ribbons available for branding and promotional uses
- Better resistance to heat, moisture and chemicals
- Stable and durable images that are long-lasting
- Higher speed printing
- Longer print head life
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| Disadvantages |
- Can fade over time (6-12 months)
- Overexposure to heat or UV light discolours the material, making the print harder to read
- Limited abrasion resistance
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- Not all printers are thermal transfer compatible
- Ribbons must be kept in stock are an additional cost; a ribbon saver can reduce the amount of ribbon used
- Requires additional setup time and ribbon change-overs
- Ribbons can wrinkle and compromise print quality
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| Ribbons |
Not required |
A ribbon is required; these are available in a range of different sizes, colours and grades. The common grades are:
Resin - typically used for industrial and chemical applications, where durability under extreme environmental conditions are required.
Wax Resin - suitable for general purpose printing, with good scuff, element and chemical resistance.
Wax - typically used in short shelf life applications, where there is low abrasion and low chemical exposure. |
We make thermal labels for a wide variety of clients and our team has experience in designing the right solution for every situation. We also offer a convenient range of generic, stocked thermal labels and thermal transfer ribbons suitable for a range of printer makes and models. Our ribbon offer includes our exclusive range of Lingard quality ribbons, the Ricoh B110A wax resin ribbon and a range of specialty ribbons. Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive ribbon range in stock right now and available for immediate purchase.
Our team of label experts have extensive expertise in all things related to thermal labels. We would be delighted to discuss your thermal labelling requirements, share our knowledge and develop a solution specifically for you. Contact us to schedule your free expert consultation.
1800 773 331
0800 152 162
