User Manual

THERMAL SUPPLIES QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
48
“How do I specify media?”
To help select media consider the following questions:
- Have you already selected a printing technology (Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer)?
- How long must your label last? (Film labels last longer than paper labels.)
- What level of abrasion from handling or scanning is anticipated?
(Wax/Resin blend ribbons increase resistance to abrasion. Extreme abrasion will require a tough face stock.)
- Is the label intended for indoor or outdoor use or both?
(Film labels are best for outdoor applications, paper degrades in sunlight.)
- If outdoor use, is it a short or extended exposure?
- What is the level of moisture or humidity that your label will experience?
(Coated paper labels can withstand minimal exposure to moisture.)
- What temperatures must be withstood during the application or use of the label?
(Paper labels work in same temperature as people. Otherwise, use film labels for wider temperature ranges.)
- What if high durability and tear resistance are desired?
(Polyester labels provide highest durability and tear resistance.)
- What is the media format required (adhesive backed label or free hanging tag/ticket)?
- What are the surface characteristics of the product or item to be labelled?
(Important for determining if a special adhesive is required.)
- Is the label intended to be permanent or removable? (Removable labels use a special adhesive.)
- Is a temper-evident material necessary? (Niche applications require special label construction.)
- Is chemical, oil, blood, or solvent resistance necessary? (Requires use of film label materials.)
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