We offer a range of label materials to our customers. This page explains the properties of each material and when best to use them
Material Summary
| Direct Thermal Eco | Direct Thermal Semi-Top | Semi-Gloss | Polypropylene (PP) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper | ||||
| Plastic | ||||
| Waterproof | ||||
| Wax Ribbon | ||||
| Hybrid Ribbon | ||||
| Resin Ribbon | ||||
| Shelf Life* | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years | 3 years+ |
| Print Life* | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 2 years+ | 3 years+ |
Direct Thermal Economy
Also referred to as DT Eco. This material has an uncoated surface, reducing the price of the material, hence the “economy” title. The lack of a coating on the top of the pigment layer means the material is slightly more abrasive to the print head and can reduce the lifespan of the print head a little when compared to coated materials or when using ribbons.
This material has a pigment coating on the label and does not require ribbons. The heat of the print head in your printer activates the pigment at print time.
| Material Type | Paper based material (cellulose fibre base) |
| Storage | Store in a cool dry environment away from direct sunlight and heat sources. |
| Lifespan of Stock | Up to 2-3 years, depending on the quality of the storage conditions. |
| Durability after Print | 6-12 months dependent upon the environment. Not suitable for warm or hot conditions |
| Physical Durability | This material tears and is not suitable for environments where labels are expected to be rubbed or subject to physical friction. |
| Waterproof | No |
Direct Thermal Top
This material has a coated top surface, that reduces friction and wear on the print head of your printer.
This material has a pigment coating on the label and does not require ribbons. The heat of the print head in your printer activates the pigment at print time.
| Material Type | Paper based material (cellulose fibre base) |
| Storage | Store in a cool dry environment away from direct sunlight and heat sources. |
| Lifespan of Stock | Up to 2-3 years, depending on the quality of the storage conditions. |
| Durability after Print | 6-12 months dependent upon the environment. Not suitable for warm or hot conditions |
| Pgysical Durability | This material tears and is not suitable for environments where labels are expected to be rubbed or subject to physical friction. |
| Waterproof | No |
Semi Top
This material has a coated top surface that reduces friction and wear on the print head of your printer.
This material requires ribbons – normally wax only or a wax/resin mixed ribbon. The material is not suitable for a resin ribbon type.
| Material Type | Paper based material (cellulose fibre base) |
| Storage | Store in a cool dry environment away from direct sunlight and heat sources. |
| Lifespan of Stock | Up to 2-3 years, depending on the quality of the storage conditions. |
| Durability after Print | Up to 3 years or more depending on storage conditions |
| Physical Durability | This material tears and is not suitable for environments where labels are expected to be rubbed or subject to physical friction. |
| Waterproof | No |
Polypropylene (PP)
This material is made from polypropylene polymer. It has high mechanical resistance and is good for environments where the labels will be subject to friction, rubbiing, sunlight and outdoor weather.
This material requires resin ribbons. Wax and wax/resin ribbons are not suitable and will produce very poor results.
| Material Type | Plastic material (manmade polymer) |
| Storage | Store in a cool dry environment away from direct sunlight and heat sources. |
| Lifespan of Stock | Up to 2-3 years, depending on the quality of the storage conditions. Adhesive is likely to deteriorate before the actual label substrate. |
| Durability after Print | Up to 3 years or more depending on storage conditions. Not suitable for applications over 50oC |
| Physical Durability | This material is difficult to tear and will likely deform before tearing. Can be cut by blades or sharp objects. It is suitable for environments where labels are expected to be rubbed or subject to physical friction. Durable in sunshine and wet conditions. |
| Waterproof | Yes |