Thermal labels are labels that use heat to create an image on the surface of the label. The printer's print head releases heat onto the thermal ribbon, which is then adhered to the label surface. As the label passes under the print head, the components of the ribbon mix and darken, forming an image. Direct thermal printing does not use ribbon, so the printer is smaller.
Direct thermal printing is cost-effective and offers many advantages over other printing methods. It's easy to use, produces clear and consistent images, and works with both 1D and 2D barcodes. Thermal labels are suitable for short-term applications, but they may fade over time. They are also sensitive to abrasions, water, chemicals and sunlight. Thermal labels have good water and oil resistance, but they may lose color if exposed to hot sun or high temperatures.
Advantages of thermal labels
1. It is more user-friendly, economical and environmentally friendly as it does not require the use of ink, toner or printer ribbon.
2. Since it prints on a continuous roll or paper, it is more cost-effective to produce simple labels in large quantities.
3. It is more versatile as it can be performed using industrial, desktop and mobile printing devices.
4. It is cheaper than inkjet, laser or thermal transfer printing.
5. The intensity of monitoring operations, maintaining equipment and replacing supplies is low.
How long do thermal labels last?
Printed labels created using the direct thermal printing method are best suited for short-term applications. Their service life is relatively short (usually between six and nine months), depending on the type of label material and application environment. Because label materials are heat-sensitive, continued exposure to heat and ultraviolet (UV) light can cause printed images to fade over time.
Thermal labels are not suitable for long-term labeling applications because they will fade over time. For such applications, thermal transfer labels are a better solution. These labels are created using a thermal transfer printing method that uses printer ribbon and heat to create the desired image on the label material. The print head heats the ribbon, causing its resin or wax film to transfer and bond to the label. The result is a high-quality, long-lasting printed label that does not fade as easily as direct thermal labels when exposed to heat and UV light.
Common applications of thermal labels
Thermal labels are a mainstay in many industries, including food service, retail, pharmaceutical and transportation, for short to mid-term labeling applications. As thermal printing technology continues to improve, they may be incorporated into a wider range of industrial applications.
Typical uses for thermal labels include:
●Product barcode
●Packaging and shipping labels
●Receipt
●Name tags and visitor passes
●coupon
●event tickets
●GHS Compliant Labeling
●pharmacy labels
●food labels
●restaurant order tags
