Make Qualified Decision to Choose Between Thermal Labels If you are thinking that the thermal label is an ordinary item that does not need any special consideration to select, you are wrong. To have the optimal performance of a thermal label you must select the right type of label for the right type of printer based on the application. Here you will have a good understanding of different types of thermal labels and criteria for selection of these labels.
About thermal labels Heat is used in thermal labels to create an image and there are two types of thermal labels used and these are direct thermal and thermal transfers. In the case of thermal transfer, a thermal ribbon is used and in case of a direct thermal type of labels, image is created on the label without the use of a ribbon. Here, you can have a detailed understanding of the direct thermal and thermal transfer type labels. Direct Thermal Type Labels In the case of direct thermal materials, there is a chemical layer applied to a synthetic base or a paper that can get activated with heat. With direct thermal labels printing need to be made in direct thermal printers where the small elements located on the printer head gets heated up when used. Subsequently, it activates the chemical layer located on the label to create the required image and you can print various types of information on pre-printed labels or blank labels. For logistics, retail or other industries where it is not needed to expose the labels to high moisture or heat, the choice of direct thermal paper labels can be excellent. On the other hand for retail and carton pack labeling in frozen/chilled food sectors that expose the labels to rough handling and high moisture, direct thermal synthetic labels may be the best choice. This type of label suits companies having perishable goods as these kinds of labels does not last long.
Thermal Transfer Type Labels In the case of thermal transfer labels, the printer for use should have a ribbon fitted with it. The ink from the fitted ribbon is transferred by using the heat of print head and produces a dark, vibrant print that produces a long-lasting effect. Many combinations of ribbons and labels can be made to fulfill the need for critical printing to standard labeling in cartons and these labels can withstand extreme conditions of handling. The thermal transfer type of labels suits those companies that have products needing to endure temperature changes, friction, dampness, and also need to last for more than six months.