Whether you’re printing barcodes, product labels or horticultural tags, thermal transfer ribbons ensure your print jobs are clear and legible. Featuring superior durability and print quality, these printing supplies are also resistant to smudging and scratching, which helps them stand up to harsh conditions, including chemical exposure and extreme temperatures. With this level of versatility, it’s important to choose the right thermal ribbon for your specific needs.
A thermal transfer ribbon is a thin layer of film or substrate that’s coated with wax, resin or a hybrid ink. When heated by a thermal printer’s print head, this coating melts to create the necessary text and graphics on a label or tag.
The ribbon’s back coat is typically a protective material like silicone, polyester or ceramic-based. This layer protects the ribbon from abrasion and static buildup. It also prevents moisture from damaging the ribbon and affecting the print job.
Thermal transfer Thermal Transfer Ribbon Benefits ribbons offer numerous benefits over direct thermal printing, including a high-quality print, large color range and the ability to use on various materials. However, they are pricier than direct thermal printers and require ribbon change after some use.
Regardless of which type of ribbon you use, proper storage is essential to prolong its life and performance. Keep your ribbon rolls sealed in resealable bags to avoid moisture and humidity, which can cause them to dry out or age. Store them in a cool, dry area and away from sunlight to limit their exposure to heat and other environmental factors that can cause damage. Additionally, be sure to implement a FIFO (first in, first out) inventory system to ensure older ribbons are used up before newer ones.
There are three types of thermal transfer ribbons: full wax, resin and a hybrid, each with their own unique benefits. Wax ribbons feature a wax-based ink that melts under the heat of the thermal printer’s print head, creating text, barcodes and graphics on the label or tag. These ribbons are the most economical, but they may not be as durable as their resin counterparts.
Resin ribbons are ideal for coding and marking harsh environments, as they’re highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals and UV exposure. Resin ribbons are more expensive than their wax counterparts, but they can help you achieve the durability needed for demanding applications like chemical or pharmaceutical labeling.
A thermal transfer ribbon hybrid provides a balance between the cost-effectiveness of wax and the durability of resin. These ribbons can be used to print on a variety of materials, including coated paper, woven labels and synthetic films, and are suitable for demanding applications such as manufacturing and horticultural labeling. They’re also more abrasion-resistant than full wax and resin ribbons, making them a solid choice for a wide variety of applications.