What are the Different Types of Thermal Paper Labels?
Posted by : Mercury Labels Ltd on Thursday, December 7, 2023 in Printed Labels.
Thermal paper labels are a versatile and commonly used type of label that utilises heat to create images and text on the label surface. They are widely employed in various industries, including retail, healthcare, and manufacturing, due to their ease of use, durability, and affordability.
Direct thermal labels
Direct thermal labels are the most basic and widely used type of thermal paper label. They consist of a coated paper material that contains a thermosensitive pigment. When heat is applied to the label face using a thermal printer, the pigment darkens, creating the desired image or text.
Advantages of Direct Thermal Labels:
- Fast and convenient printing
- No ribbons or consumables are required
- Low initial cost
- Suitable for temporary applications
Disadvantages of Direct Thermal Labels:
- Images/text fade over time
- Susceptible to moisture and scratches
- Not suitable for long-term storage
Examples of direct thermal label applications:
- Receipts
- Shipping labels
- Inventory tags
- Temporary identification labels
Thermal Transfer Labels
Thermal transfer labels offer a more durable and long-lasting solution compared to direct thermal labels. They utilise a ribbon coated with wax or resin-based ink that is melted onto the label surface under high pressure.
Advantages of Thermal Transfer Labels:
- High-quality, long-lasting images and text
- Resistant to fading, moisture, and scratches
- Suitable for long-term storage
Disadvantages of Thermal Transfer Labels:
- More expensive than direct thermal labels
- Requires a ribbon consumable
- Slower printing process
Examples of Thermal Transfer Label Applications:
- Price tags
- Product labels
- Barcode labels
- Industrial asset tags
Synthetic Thermal Labels
Synthetic thermal labels are a type of thermal transfer label that utilises synthetic resin-based facestock material instead of paper. This makes them more durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for applications in harsh environments.
Examples of Synthetic Thermal Label Applications:
- Outdoor signage
- Vehicle identification labels
- Freight labels
- Pharmaceutical labels
Choosing the Right Thermal Paper Label
When selecting the appropriate type of thermal paper label for your application, consider factors such as the desired lifespan, durability, moisture exposure, and printing environment. Direct thermal labels are ideal for temporary or low-cost applications, while thermal transfer labels offer superior longevity and durability for long-term use. Synthetic thermal labels further enhance durability for harsh environments.
