So you're using (or planning to use) a barcode label printer...now you're wondering which thermal transfer ribbon you should choose for your application. Well, you've come to the right place! This article provides an overview of the basic properties and best applications of waxes, wax resins and resin ribbons.
A little background first: To print information on a label, a thermal barcode printer presses the print head against a medium; thermal (DT) media contains heat-sensitive chemicals inside that respond directly to the heat from the print head and generate image. These labels are highly sensitive to abrasion, heat and UV exposure, so they are generally not used for receipt paper, shipping labels, when using mobile printers and some other specific applications. To increase the durability of the printed image, we added a Thermal Transfer Ribbon (TTR) between the printhead and the label, a clear PET film coated with a specific combination of wax and resin-based inks. As the label and ribbon move under the print head,
(Side note: The ink coating can be made on the roll facing either inward or outward. While most barcode label printers today use both methods, some printers only support one or the other. Therefore, it is very important to check which wind Important which orientation your printer supports.)
The ribbon formula you will use depends on your specific application; the portfolio is manufactured and certified to print on different types of media and for specific applications. Choosing the right one is important as it will ensure the quality and durability you are looking for. Most thermal transfer printers can use three common combinations: wax, wax resin, and resin. Below is an introduction to each function.
wax ribbon
Wax ribbons, sometimes called "resin-enhanced wax" ribbons, are the most common (and cheapest) and are available for uncoated or matte coated labels.
Durability: Wax tapes are not as durable as other types, but are also less expensive. They provide images that are more resistant to fading than thermal labels, but the images are still prone to scratches and smudges. Wax tape also offers limited chemical resistance compared to wax resin or resin.
How the process works: All wax tapes contain some resin. A combination of wax and resin ink is melted and applied to the PET film. The back is coated with a backcoat; the roll is then cut to different widths and lengths depending on the printer model. In a printer, the printhead elements receive digital signals to heat and cool rapidly. When hot, they transfer ink from the ribbon to the label (assuming you have the right label/ribbon combination, the ink will stick to the label).
Uses: Wax tapes are used for short term and light duty durable applications such as shipping labels, retail labels, storage locations, signage, etc. They are by far the most popular, accounting for over 70 percent of thermal transfer ribbon (TTR) sales.
Wax Resin Ribbon
Wax resin ribbons are usually very close to half wax and half resin. They are more expensive than wax tapes, but offer more durability and versatility of the substrate. They can be printed on almost all types of labels and packaging films.
Durability: Wax resins are more durable than wax in terms of scratch and smear resistance, and are resistant to moderate to harsh chemicals and more extreme temperatures.
How the Process Works: This process is basically the same as the wax tape process, except that instead of using wax mostly, this method uses a more uniform wax and resin ink.
Uses: Wax resin ribbons are used in applications that require some degree of abrasion, chemical or environmental resistance. Some typical applications are laboratory labels, outdoor products/UL labels or cold chain/refrigeration applications where you must increase durability if you don't want the barcode to deteriorate.
Resin Ribbon
Many resin ribbons still contain some level of wax, but they are mostly pure ink resin. These are the most durable and expensive TTR types, formulated for the most demanding applications, and are compatible with glossy coated paper labels, synthetic film labels such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and even polyimide, acrylate, etc. Compatible with special receptors such as textiles.
Durability. These are the most durable ribbon formulas to date. Extreme heat or cold, harsh chemicals and solvents, harsh wear, and outdoor environments are no match for the correct specification of resin ribbon with the proper label material.
How the process works. The process differs as the resin content in the ribbon increases, as these inks require more energy to melt them onto the substrate. Printhead density and speed settings need to be adjusted in order to transfer ink efficiently and produce long-lasting images.
use. The extreme durability of resin ribbons makes them a requirement for some harsh environment or mission critical applications. Typical uses include medical device labels, electrical component/PCB labels, clothing care labels, plant stakes, chemical bucket labels, and more.
Finally, some label applications have requirements that go beyond print-on-demand. For these applications, Barcoding has strategic partnerships with key processing partners across the country who can produce your labels to virtually any specification. We usually pre-print labels and add clear overlays to improve abrasion, UV or chemical resistance. We can even help make barcodes on anodized aluminum or laser etched into steel for ultimate durability, or use ceramic barcodes for ultimate heat resistance.
Thermal transfer ribbons are only a small part of an efficient and effective barcode system, but it is important because if you choose the wrong system, your operating costs can be high. The Barcoding team is ready to help you determine the best solution for your needs, big or small, including sourcing the right printer. Schedule a free evaluation today to discuss your labeling and printing needs with one of our experts!
