The success of thermal transfer imaging relies on two factors: the
quality of the label stock and on matching the proper thermal transfer
ribbons to the label stock. There are 3 basic types of high quality
thermal ribbons. Which one you want to choose is based on the
make and model of your printer and the type of label stock you will be
using. Additionally, you must make sure when selecting a thermal
ribbon that the width of the thermal ribbon is greater than the width of
the label and THE LINER. Under sizing the width of the ribbon can lead
to premature printhead wear and possible failure.
The three main types of ribbon are:
Wax Thermal Ribbons -
A thermal transfer ribbon which is
low cost and perfect for printing on most paper stock
although it may not be completely smudge-proof in some instances.
Wax/Resin Thermal Ribbons -
A thermal transfer ribbon,
which is mid-ranged cost, semi-smudge resistant and is a
good value based on application and material to be printed on.
This thermal ribbon type works on paper as well as many other
common materials.
Resin Thermal Ribbons -
A thermal transfer ribbon, which is
a higher cost, guaranteed smudge-proof on most labels
and tags and performs on media almost as though laminated. This
thermal ribbon type is used for UL-CSA applications,
polyimide circuit board labels and other demanding
situations.
