For printing shipping labels, barcodes, receipts, product information, and other critical printing output, thermal labels are extensively utilized in retail, logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries. Despite being priceless, they have a tendency to fade over time, causing data loss and illegibility. Learn important advice for maintaining the readability and legibility of your thermal labels by reading this tutorial.
The fading of thermal labels is influenced by numerous circumstances. Understanding the following elements is necessary to put effective label longevity techniques into practice:
Heat Temperature
Your thermal labels, especially direct thermal labels, can quickly fade at extreme temperatures and humidity levels. Overheating can react to the chemicals on a label's surface, blurring or erasing the text.
Substance Exposure
Thermal labels are susceptible to chemical contamination while being stored, transported, or used. Additionally, some particular chemicals may interact with the coating-related substances on the label, causing fading or discoloration.
Direct Sunlight
The fading process can be sped up by exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays or direct sunshine. Long-term exposure to UV radiation damages the label's coating and impairs its reading.
Rough Treatment
Care should be taken when handling thermal labels to prevent fading and discoloration. The information on the label may become outdated as a result of rough treatment and friction.
Avoid Fading Approaches
Here are some helpful ideas to keep thermal labels in good condition and readable:
Think about Printing with Thermal Transfer
Direct thermal printing is more prone to fading than thermal transfer printing. Additionally, thermal transfer labels last longer than direct transfer labels. Therefore, if you can't support fading, choose the former.
Select Reputable Labels
Choose labels of the highest caliber with a top layer of protection. These labels are better suited to preventing fading because they were specifically created to ensure environmental stresses. Reputable retailers like CDM Labels sell premium thermal labels.
Uphold a Regulated Environment
Thermal label fading is mostly caused by environmental variables. As a result, it is essential to maintain a controlled atmosphere with reasonable levels of humidity and temperature. Labels shouldn't be kept in areas that could get too hot or too wet.
Avoid Exposure to UV Rays
Thermal label rolls should be kept in a cool, dark location away from the bright glare of the sun and potentially harmful UV rays. Additionally, to reduce exposure, store thermal labels in shaded areas when not in use.
Take Care of Chemicals
Use label holders or protective pouches when employing thermal labels in chemically exposed areas to prevent the coating from coming into contact with the chemicals.
Take Care of Overcoating
In harsh conditions, coat your thermal labels to halt the fading process. As an additional layer of defense against fading agents, apply a clear, protective coating over the printed labels.
Plan Regular Checks
Implement routine inspections to spot faded or broken labels and replace them right away. Potential problems can be addressed early on with routine inspections.
Last Thought
Both individuals and businesses can benefit from thermal labels because they are affordable and useful. But their propensity to lose their luster over time can be a deal breaker. The good news is that you can take the above-mentioned proactive steps to preserve their legibility. Maintaining the quality of thermal labels not only reduces expenses but also makes operations easier and less complicated and encourages proper data management.
