Overview

• Parts of Thermal Transfer Printer
• Ribbon Type
• Ribbon Material

Parts of Thermal Transfer Printer

A thermal transfer ribbon is a heat-sensitive carbon printer. Then, the printer is melted onto a label. This process transfers the ink onto the material, forming the image or words on the labels. These make the printer less likely to fade or become scratched. There are many types of materials to consider in choosing the right thermal transfer printer. But before doing so, it’s best to know the parts of the printer, too. There are four main parts to a thermal transfer printer. 

Ink

This layer is either made from wax, wax-resin or resin. And it is the part that is transferred onto the material during the printing process. The material used for the ink determines the resistance of the label to the environment.

Release

Enables a better release of ink from the base PET film.

Base PET film

This layer allows the heat transfer from the thermal head to the ink.

Back Layer

The back shields the base PET film and thermal head. It also reduces static electricity issues and improves ribbon passage through the printer.

Choosing the Thermal Transfer Printer

Thermal Transfer Printer Type

The ribbon type is very important to note. Some thermal transfer printers can only take one style. Coating Side In (CSI) and Coating Side Out (CSO) refer to where the ink coating is placed. 

Coated Side In

Coated side in printer have the ink facing inside. This means that the printer unrolls from the top before making contact with the print head and label. 

Coated Side Out

Coated side out ribbons have the ink facing outside. This type of ribbon unrolls from the bottom before making contact with the print head and label.

Thermal Transfer Printer Material

The printer material determines the strength and durability of your label. This also ensures that your labels are readable, scannable and reliable.  

Wax

Wax is the most affordable type of ribbon. It is ideal for use in shipping and retail labels. However, the material results in light printing. It is more affordable but less durable. Yet, it is still the most common type of ribbon. Aside from shipping and retail, it is also recommended for short term or indoor use. Further, it is useful for warehouse labels for shelves and bins. 

Wax-Resin

Wax-resin is more durable than wax. As such, it protects against scratching, abrasion and moisture. The transfer creates clear and sharp images on various materials. They are the perfect choice for constant handling and cold temperatures. Additionally, the wax-resin is a good choice for barcodes and pharmaceutical labels.

Resin

Resin melts at higher temperatures resulting in extreme durability. So, these ribbons are good for chemicals, automotive, textiles and flexible packaging. They can also stand long-term use, temperature changes and UV exposure. 

There are many things to consider when choosing the right thermal transfer ribbon. Labels are an important part of any business or warehouse. Therefore, it is important to have as much information as possible when making your decision. For more knowledge about thermal transfer ribbons and warehouse labels, contact Qbasis today!