Variable Information Print Technologies
In all its transport and logistics applications, a bar code is often applied to a product via a simple label, sometimes pre-printed with a logo or other message, often in partnership with other variable information print. The image today can be created by direct thermal, thermal transfer, inkjet (including flatbed) and laser print processes. Bar codes may also be applied as unique identifiers on primary product labels via digital print units in modular narrow-web press configurations, or via the standalone reel-to-reel digital label presses.
The mature direct thermal technology, which creates images using heat on a heat-sensitive substrate, primarily serves the retail market, particularly for catchweight food labeling. It offers ease and reliability of use for short-life applications, and delivers relatively low-cost quality barcodes at reasonable print speeds. These characteristics also make direct thermal an obvious choice for transit product identification and tracking labels, e.g. for parcel distribution, as well as for outer case and pallet markings.It is worth noting that traditionally self-adhesive Bisphenol-A (BPA) has been used in thermal papers as the standard image developer – but current concerns around its possible toxicity have led the manufacturers of self-adhesive thermal labelstocks to offer non-BPA alternatives. Thermal transfer, using ink ribbons with a thermal printhead, is one of the most flexible variable information print technologies, due to the variety of ribbons and printable receiver label materials (many UL approved) available, and its ability to print in color. Image quality and durability can be very high, so thermal transfer has been an ideal choice for industrial label applications such as chemical drum labels and durable component markings for electronic, automotive, or white goods.
Edit by Vikas
24 April, 2012
