A thermal transfer printer requires a ribbon for printing, and the type of ribbon you choose will greatly impact the quality of your labels. ID Images has a broad range of premium ribbons that are designed for optimal compatibility and excellence, with many options suited for extreme environments. We will discuss the different types of ribbons available, including wax, resin, and wax-resin combinations, as well as full resin ribbons.
Selecting the right ribbon Best Thermal Transfer Ribbons will depend on a few factors, such as label size and text, barcode size, and durability. Generally, a standard thermal ribbon will work for simple labeling and smaller barcodes and QR codes, but if you have larger text or if your labels will be used outdoors or in harsh environments, you may need a premium ribbon. In addition, it is important to pick a ribbon that fits your specific printer and label size.
The backside of a ribbon is coated with a heat-resistant material that protects it from damage and static. The coating also helps to tame the heat from the print head, which can cause uneven prints or even cracking of the label. Lastly, the coating helps to keep the ribbon flat and aligned so that it does not move during the printing process.
In the middle of the ribbon, there is a layer that contains melted wax that is used to make an imprint on the surface of your label. The melted wax is then transferred to the label using heat from the print head. Wax ribbons are suitable for printing on uncoated and coated paper labels, as well as synthetic label materials such as polyester and vinyl. They provide a durable print with high smudge resistance, but they are not water-resistant.
For more durable labels that are water-resistant and resistant to chemicals, you can use a wax-resin ribbon. These ribbons are a good choice for warehouse labeling, outdoor marking, and other harsh environments. They require more heat than a wax ribbon to transfer the ink to the label, but they offer a higher level of durability than standard wax ribbons.
Finally, full-resin ribbons, also referred to as durable resin ribbons, contain pure resin and melt at a much higher temperature than the label on which they are printed. This creates a permanent image on the label that is extremely durable and resistant to smudging, scratching, and chemical exposure. Unlike the other options, full-resin ribbons are not economical and can be overkill for situations that do not require their superior durability.
When you are ready to buy a ribbon for your Sato or Datamax label printer, make sure you select one with the coated side in (CSI) option. This ensures that the ink is facing the correct way to give you the best possible print. If you have any questions about selecting the perfect thermal transfer ribbon for your business, contact a label expert today or get a quick quote!