The thermal transfer method is used to create labels with high print quality and long durability - from 3-4 to 10-15 years. The durability of labels depends on the quality and type of tapes, and such a method of printing is carried out using thermal transfer label printers , and for this purpose, in addition to special paper, you need ribbon - thermal transfer tape .
There are three main types of thermal transfer belts:
With WAX coating (wax coating)
The cheapest option for thermal transfer tapes , the image is erased over time and burned. It can be used with all kinds of thermal transfer label printers that we at Alpha Partner offer for you - from leading world leaders such as Zebra Technologies and Honeywell , with a print resolution of 203 dpi, 300 dpi, 406 dpi and 600 dpi.
WAX tapes are most commonly used when printing matte or semi-glossy labels . Ribbons can be used in literally all areas of industry. Their durability is 3-4 years.
RESIN coated (resin)
The most expensive option thermal transfer tapes , which is characterized by a high level of wear resistance. The images on these labels do not rub and do not burn easily, their durability is 10-15 years. The following materials are used to print labels:
- Polyethylene;
- Polyvinyl chloride;
- Polypropylene;
- Polyester;
- Nylon.
For best results for transferring information to labels, it is good that the print speed is no more than 250 mm per second and with a resolution of 203, 300 or 600 dpi.
Resin-coated ribbons can withstand high temperatures, cold, heat up to 180 degrees Celsius, mechanical impact, acids, etc.
With WAX / REZIN coating (wax and resin)
Medium in price option, which is characterized by a higher level of durability and durability (4-8 years). Wax / resin thermal transfer strips can be used to print all types of labels due to the significant presence of resin in the composition of the ribbon itself.
The recommended print speed is 300 mm per second, the resolution can be from 203 to 600 dpi.
Basic criteria for selection of thermal transfer belts
The material of the thermal transfer tapes - for matt and semi-glossy labels is suitable WAX and WAX / RESIN , and for polypropylene - RESIN .
Winding type :
- in - the coloring side is inside;
- out - the coloring side is outside;
- universal winding type.
The winding is selected according to the characteristics of your label printer . For example, for Zebra label printers, the thermal transfer tape winding should be out, and for Honeywell label printers, it should be in . There are also label printers that can print on a universal type of ribbon coil.
Length and width of ribbons
The thermal transfer strips are consumed at the same rate as the carrier. That is, if you print a 20-meter roll of labels , you will spend about 20 meters of ribbon . To calculate how long a thermal transfer strip you will need, you must also take into account the intervals between the labels of the roll , which is usually 2-5 mm.
The width of the thermal transfer strip must be chosen according to the width of the labels. To be most effective seal, it is recommended to choose Ribbons size 5 mm larger than the labels.
The coil for the thermal transfer ribbon can be in different variants, so when choosing a ribbon you should pay attention to the maximum length of the coil of the printer. For example, popular desktop label printers can hold up to 74 meters of roll, mid-range printers - 300 meters, 450 meters and 600 meters.
For more detailed information and correct guidelines in choosing a thermal transfer ribbon for your label printer , do not hesitate to contact us. We at Alpha Partner will assist you in choosing the right thermal transfer tape.
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