Which Thermal Transfer Ribbon Should You Use For Your Printer?

Using the right product for the right application is always important to ensure optimal results. This is especially the case with selecting the right ribbon for your thermal transfer printing application and making sure you are matching it up with the correct label materials.

There are 3 main categories of thermal ribbons and each has its specific characteristics and uses:

· Wax ribbon

· Wax/Resin ribbon

· Resin ribbon

Below is a quick reference guide for understanding the differences and when you should be using them:

Wax Ribbon :

·the most economical and most common

·coated with a wax-based ink

·designed for use with flat head printers

·compatible with many coated and uncoated paper substrates

·allows high quality picket fence barcodes and numeric data

·ideal for shipping, inventory, retail and warehouse labels

Wax/Resin ribbon :

·more durable than full wax ribbons and higher abrasion resistance

·coated with a wax/resin-based blended ink

·compatible with many different paper, polypropylene and film substrates including synthetic weatherproof label materials

·excellent print resolution on picket fence and ladder barcodes

·suitable for both flat head and corner-edge print heads

·provides higher resistance to many aggressive chemicals

·ideal for creating more durable labels that require resistance to scratching and smudging - such as bar code labels, shipping, pharmaceutical and shelving labels

Resin ribbons :

·higher end, most expensive, premium quality and durability

·coated with a full resin-based ink

·for use when both high print quality and durability are required

·compatible with non-paper, synthetic, polyester and film substrates

·designed for both flat head and corner-edge print heads

·resistant to high temperatures and a variety of aggressive chemicals

·best for labeling extremely sensitive medical applications, chemicals, electronics, outdoor applications

Be sure to keep these tips handy for quick reference when deciding on the best label and ribbon match-ups for your particular applications. For more information on thermal transfer ribbons and to learn more about your options for all your printer, labeling and barcode printing and scanning needs, call us at (800) 643-2664 and immediately talk to one of our friendly representatives.