DIRECT THERMAL LABELS - A SUMMARY DISCUSSION

Direct thermal labels can be considered some of the more popular types of labels on the market today. It should be noted that they are not the only type available. Because of this, it's a good idea to get to know some of the advantages, as well as the disadvantages that are associated with this type of thermal label.

As you probably know as a regular consumer of thermal labels, one of the main advantages of the direct type is that no ribbon is required. By not having a ribbon to deal with in the printing process, it saves your company time and money, especially in not having to replace that part after a set number of uses. A thermal label machine simply doesn't have that cost.

There are, however, a few disadvantages to using direct thermal labels. This type of label uses a reaction between a chemical coating and the media to product a print when heated. The coating absorbs the light, causing it to turn great or black. Because of this, using direct transfer labels to produce color images, those beyond the grayscale is pretty much impossible.

Another disadvantage that is often seen with direct thermal labels is that the often don't have the contrast that you can see in other label types. Although the outside lines are usually very crisp, on occasion areas where there are multiple lines or shapes the images will look like they have bled together because of excess chemical reactions. And, there are disadvantages to the machine as well. Direct thermal labels come in direct contact with the print head, causing abrasion to occur on a regular basis. This can reduce the life of the print head by as much as 50% depending on how well you maintain your machinery. In addition, since direct thermal labels print at a lower speed overall, the energy output to the print head can potentially increase, thereby wearing down the motor.

These are just a few of the advantages and disadvantages of using direct thermal labels. Please consider these when making your decision about the types of labels your company wants to use.