Direct Transfer vs Thermal Transfer labels and printers.
Direct thermal and thermal transfer printing are distinct thermal printing techniques used to create high-quality labels and other printed materials.
The consumables and labels are not interchangeable, therefore it's important to know which type of printer you have and purchase the correct label types.
Direct Thermal
Direct thermal printing is a technique that uses a thermal printhead to apply heat and create markings on a label. This method burns images directly onto the printed material and is more sensitive to light, heat, and abrasions. Therefore, it is suited for shorter-term or single-use applications, such as shipping labels.
Direct thermal printing works by applying heat to a special type of heat-sensitive material that blackens when heat is applied. It does not use any ink or toner.
Thermal Transfer
Thermal transfer printing utilizes a ribbon process to melt ink, typically wax or resin based, embedding the image into the paper or labels. This method is ideal for long-term applications where the printed media will be used for more than six months or exposed to harsh conditions like chemicals, light, high temperatures, or water. As such, thermal transfer printing is excellent for asset tracking, laboratory specimens and blood bags, outdoor applications, permanent identification, and cold and freezer storage. It offers a wide variety of printing materials, including paper, plastic, and polyester, each with different levels of longevity. Label materials can be carefully matched with different types of ribbons to ensure maximum durability.
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