Different Types of Labels
Direct Thermal / Thermal Direct – printers use a thermal print head that applies heat to a chemically treated paper that turns dark as a result of the heat thus creating text, lines and graphics. Direct Thermal printing will age and will turn black over time especially if exposed to heat or sunlight.
Thermal Transfer – printers use the same thermal print head but heat is applied to a ribbon which transfers the image to the surface of the label/tag, creating text, lines and graphics. There is a greater range of label material for Thermal Transfer stock. The text lasts longer and can withstand moderate heat and direct sunlight.
Different Label Materials – Paper, Polypropylene, Vinyl, Synthetic, Polyester
- Eco Paper – A low cost white paper designed for general purpose, short term labelling applications, such as; dispatch and carton labelling
- Paper – suited for general purpose labelling needs
- Polypropylene – high performance films predominantly used when label may come in contact with moderate moisture
- Vinyl / PVC – durable, yet flexible films with high chemical resistance, used predominantly for outdoor applications
- Synthetic – it can handle weather better than most papers (coated or uncoated) waterproof and weather proof
- Polyester – material that can survive a wide range of challenging environments and manufacturing processes
- Gloss – high sheen, better moisture resistance, high quality finish.
- Matt – non sheen
- White – White
- Clear – Translucent blank labels with a matt finish.
- Flood Coat – Many colours available
Different Adhesives – Permanent, Removable, Freezer Grade, Food Grade, Cold Temperature
- Permanent – formulated to fasten to a variety of substrates with long term durability, suitable for general labeling applications and give good adhesion to most substrates.
- Removable – A general purpose removable adhesive featuring medium-long term clean removability from most substrates. With good UV resistance, this adhesive allows label application at a wide temperature range, while retaining its removable properties, even at low temperatures.
- Freezer Grade – Offers high initial tack, good clarity, and adhesion when applied at temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C) and also has excellent processing characteristics and offers exceptional adhesion to a wide variety of substrates with moderate resistance to water and humidity
- Food Grade – A special purpose permanent, rubber based adhesive featuring ‘Food Grade’ approval. Higher coat weight enables labelling of difficult to label fruit and vegetable surfaces.
- Cold Temperate – labels are used mostly for food packaging / storage and in laboratory settings. They stay adhered when temperate decrease unlike standard labels.