Thermal Transfer Ribbons

Thermal transfer ribbons are paired with thermal transfer labels (or tag stock) using thermal printers. Pulses of heat supplied by the printers printhead transfer an image from the thermal transfer ribbon to the label or tag stock. When the correct label and thermal transfer ribbon are used in combination, an image can be created that is resistant to many elements and with outstanding edge definition.

Thermal transfer ribbons have different formulations. Each thermal transfer ribbon formulation has a purpose. In its most simple form, thermal transfer ribbons are offered in three different categories of formulations. They are:

• Wax thermal transfer ribbons
• Wax resin thermal transfer ribbons
• Resin thermal transfer ribbons

Although all thermal transfer ribbons have some resin added to them, the amount and type of resin added to the ribbon is what allows it to perform well with a substrate or for a particular application. As a rule of thumb, the high resin content does add to the cost of the thermal transfer ribbon.

For standard applications (like transit labels or product identification including UPC codes) printed on a paper thermal transfer label stock, a premium or economy wax thermal transfer ribbon will suffice. When exploring printing on specialized materials like polyesters, kimdura, polyolefin, it is suggested that the label and ribbon are tested. For your convenience, Labelmatch does offer free samples.

When combining the right label and thermal transfer ribbon, a long term, durable and environmentally resistant label can be created.

Assets

• Excellent resolution
• Many thermal transfer ribbon formulations are available for printing on a host of different thermal transfer label materials
• Thermal transfer ribbon backcoating will extend the life of your printhead when compared to running direct thermal labels
• When compared to direct thermal labels, thermal transfer ribbons and labels offer far better chemical and environmental resistance

Limitations

• Thermal transfer ribbons are a one time use solution. They can not be re-used.
• Thermal transfer ribbons and labels are a 2 piece solution. Therefore loading printers is more labor intensive

Common Thermal Transfer Ribbon Categories

• Zebra Wax Thermal Transfer Ribbons
• Datamax Wax Thermal Transfer Ribbons
• Zebra Wax Resin Thermal Transfer Ribbons
• Datamax Wax Resin Thermal Transfer Ribbons
• Zebra Resin Thermal Transfer Ribbons
• Datamax Resin Thermal Transfer Ribbons

Labelmatch offers a host of different ribbon formulations. To review all of our ribbons, please visit this page.

We know sourcing the right ribbon can be a challenge. Cant find what you are looking for? Call us at 1.800.726.7334 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. EST or try our Live Chat.

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