Thermal transfer ribbon come in three main types - wax, wax-resin or pure resin and are almost always black (other colors sometimes used are red and blue). These different types are made to print onto different label materials and are used when the life of the label needs to be long or the labels needs to survive harsh environments. Wax ribbons are for printing onto paper labels, where the life of the label can be years but must be kept dry and must not be abraded or subjected to certain chemicals or oil, which would melt the wax image. Wax-resin ribbons product a finer image on very smooth paper or coated paper labels. The printed image is much more durable than wax, but can still only stand slight contact with water. Finally pure resin ribbons are formulated to print onto plastic labels such as polyester, polypropylene and vinyl. The "ink" is designed to slightly dissolve into or adhere to the plastic surface of the label and becomes extremely durable, depending on the plastic material and ribbon make used.
Most printer manufacturers offer ribbon/label combinations which are known to work well together, which is particularly important as some combinations produce no image at all. Plastic labels with resin ribbons will survive outside in full sunlight, can stand immersion in water and may be resistant to chemicals and oils dependent on type. Often used in Automotive and Aircraft parts manufacture, any items stored outside and essential for the labelling of hazardous chemicals which must remain identifiable, for example, after being submerged in sea water for extended periods.
Wax thermal transfer ribbon is a premium wax grade, enhanced especially for maximum print performance. High carbon content guarantees a crisp, sharp black image so crucial for the printing of graphic, text and barcodes.
Wax resin grade of thermal transfer ribbon is designed to work with flat head technology printers, providing perfect print performance. Wax Resin is a high-end solution, particularly suited to the high-volume segment of labelling, providing versatility over a broad range of both film media and paper.
High performance resin ribbon is a UK approved resin ribbon crafted to work with almost all flat head thermal transfer printers operating in industrial conditions.
Resin is another premium solution best suited here high durability is of paramount importance. offering exceptionally versatility over an enormous range of synthetic and paper media.
Tag: Thermal Transfer Ribbon
The following OEM thermal papers have been tested by IBM Retail Store Solutions for use with IBM SureMark 4610 printers. This testing program only applies to the specific paper products listed below. IBM testing only confirms that use of these papers will not negatively affect the operating life of the various 4610 printer mechanisms, specifically only the thermal print head and thermal paper cutter blades in a controlled environment. IBM's thermal paper testing does not warrant any other claims made by the paper manufacturer, including archive life and sensitivity, some of which are provided by the paper manufacturers and included for convenience in the "descriptions" column of the chart below. For specific paper information, please contact the manufacturer directly.
Most direct thermal papers require a protective topcoating to:
Reduce fading of the thermal image caused by exposure to UV light, water, oils, grease, lard, fats, plasticizers, and similar causes.
Provide improved printhead wear.
Reduce or eliminate residue from the thermal coating on the thermal printheads.
Provide better anchorage of flexographic printing inks applied to the thermal paper.
Focus the heat from the thermal printhead on the active coating.
Compared to thermal transfer, direct thermal is a simpler medium to use and more cost-effective because it only involves one consumable Appleton uses ideas that make a difference to create product solutions through its development and use of coating formulations and applications, encapsulation technology, and specialized and secure print services. The Company produces carbonless, thermal, security, and performance packaging products. Appleton is headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, and has manufacturing operations in Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania and the United Kingdom, employs approximately 3,400 people, and is 100 percent employee owned. For more information visit www.appletonideas.com.
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