A ribbon transfers colour onto the label under heat. The method delivers durable, high-quality print images and is particularly suitable for barcodes, filling dates and best-before dates.
Thermal transfer labels: durable identification with ribbon
In thermal transfer printing, a ribbon melts pigments into the label material under heat. The result is a brilliant, smudge- and light-resistant print image that permanently withstands environmental influences. Blumberg manufactures thermal transfer labels in made-to-measure grades, shapes and colours, printable on paper, PE and polyester, in multiple colours through coloured ribbons on request.
The printing process
Unlike direct thermal printing, the reaction takes place in the printer's ribbon rather than on the label. The colour of the ribbon determines the colour of the print, and the label can be overprinted with additional information at any time. A short test print before the production run sets alignment, font size and print temperature correctly.
Typical applications
- Food labelling with filling and best-before dates
- Product identification via barcodes
- GHS-compliant marking of chemical and pharmaceutical goods
- Transport marking and shipping labels
- Price marking in retail
- Inventory management and quality marking
Frequently asked questions about thermal transfer labels
Direct thermal printing works without a ribbon directly on coated paper: economical, but sensitive to light and heat and only single-colour black. Thermal transfer printing uses a ribbon and delivers permanent, also multi-coloured print images on paper, PE or polyester.
Paper, PE and polyester. Thermal transfer printing thus covers all common requirements, from simple paper labels to resistant plastic identification.
Yes. Blumberg thermal transfer labels are used for GHS-compliant marking of chemical and pharmaceutical goods, where permanent legibility is mandatory.
A test print is advisable: font size, label material and print temperature all influence the result. A temperature set too high or too low leads to poor print images.
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We are personally there for you! Let us advise you on Blumberg thermal transfer labels for a wide range of applications and industry requirements.
Timo Derichs