What are the Differences between Wet Glue and Self-Adhesive Labels?
Posted by : Mercury Labels Ltd on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 in Choosing Your Labels.
Labels are an essential component of product packaging, branding, and organisation. There are two basic labelling methods: wet glue labels and self-adhesive labels. These two techniques have unique properties, applications and benefits. In this post, we will look at the fundamental distinctions between wet glue and self-adhesive labels in order to help you make educated labelling selections. Labels are an essential component of product packaging, branding, and organisation. There are two basic labelling methods: wet glue labels and self-adhesive labels. Labels are an essential component of product packaging, branding, and organisation. There are two basic labelling methods: wet glue labels and self-adhesive labels. These two techniques have unique properties, applications and benefits. In this post, we will look at the fundamental distinctions between wet glue and self-adhesive labels in order to help you make educated labelling selections.
Wet Glue Labels
Adhesive Type:
Wet glue labels, also known as glue-applied labels, utilise a water-based
adhesive. This adhesive is typically applied to the label material before
affixing it to the product or container.
Application Process:
Wet glue labels require a labelling machine equipped with a glue applicator.
During the labelling process, the machine applies a precise amount of adhesive
to the back of the label. The labelled item is then passed through a glue
roller, which ensures even adhesion.
Substrates: Wet
glue labels adhere well to a variety of substrates, including glass, plastic,
metal, and paper. They are commonly used on glass bottles and containers in the
beverage, food, and pharmaceutical industries.
Advantages of Wet Glue Labels:
Permanence: Wet
glue labels typically offer a strong bond, making them highly tamper-resistant
and durable.
Professional Appearance:
They often provide a polished and high-end look, making them suitable for
premium products and brands.
Environmentally
Friendly: The water-based adhesive used in wet glue labels is considered
more environmentally friendly compared to some adhesives used in self-adhesive
labels.
Challenges of Wet Glue Labels:
Speed and Efficiency:
Applying wet glue labels can be slower and require more precision compared to
self-adhesive labels, which can impact production efficiency.
Cleanup: The use
of water-based adhesives may result in occasional glue spillage, which requires
cleaning and maintenance of labelling equipment.
Self-Adhesive Labels
Self-adhesive labels:
Also known as pressure-sensitive labels have an adhesive coating on the
label backing. Pressure, such as when the label is put to a surface, activates
the adhesive.
Application Process:
Self-adhesive labels are easy to apply manually or by using automatic labelling
machines. The label backing is peeled off, and the label is pressed onto the
product or container.
Self-adhesive labels are
adaptable and stick
well to a variety of substrates, including paper, cardboard, plastic, and
others. They're widespread in areas including retail, logistics, and
healthcare.
Advantages of Self-Adhesive Labels:
Ease of Application:
Self-adhesive labels are easy to use and apply fast and efficiently, making
them ideal for high-speed manufacturing lines.
Variety: They
come in a variety of forms, sizes, and materials, allowing for customisation to
fulfil specific branding and labelling requirements.
Clean Application: Self-adhesive labels
typically result in less mess during application since there is no wet adhesive
involved.
Challenges of Self-Adhesive Labels:
Durability: While
self-adhesive labels are typically durable, in some situations, they may not be
as tamper-resistant as wet glue labels.
Environmental
Considerations: In terms of environmental effect, the glue used in
self-adhesive labels might vary, thus it's critical to pick the proper adhesive
for your purposes.
In conclusion, the choice between wet glue labels and self-adhesive labels depends on your specific labelling requirements, production processes, and the substrates you are working with. Wet glue labels offer durability and a professional appearance, making them ideal for certain industries like beverages and pharmaceuticals. Because of their simplicity of application and customisation options, self-adhesive labels, on the other hand, are a versatile solution for a wide range of applications. Understanding the differences between labelling systems is crucial for selecting the right option for your business.
