To ensure optimal label performance, it is crucial to match your application to the correct printing method. A simple misunderstanding between common printing methods and label endurance can result in damaged printheads, ruined barcodes, and frequent unnecessary downtime. Implementing efficient labeling solutions for a wide variety of clients, Covington Barcoding dives into the differences between two prevalent printing methods: thermal transfer printing and direct thermal printing.
Simply put, the difference between thermal transfer and direct thermal printing lies in heat application. Thermal transfer requires a heated ribbon that transposes melted ink into the label. Direct thermal printing does not require a ribbon as heat presses against heat-sensitive media to create barcodes. Furthermore, both sustain 1D/2D barcode symbologies, graphics, and texts. While similar, certain considerations must be noted before selecting your preferred printing method.
Exploring the Tale of Two Printers
Both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing have proven highly efficient in and out of the warehouse as they lower operational costs while delivering crisp barcodes. However, depending on your labeling goals, one method may not readily fit your workflow, which is why Covington has gathered three ways heat-based printing optimizes productivity.
Benefits of Thermal Transfer Printing:
Printing solutions don’t have to be overly complicated. As a Zebra Business Partner, Covington Barcoding provides close assistance in selecting quality printing media as well as durable hardware to strengthen your printing system. Count on tested expertise when you reach out to our labeling specialists for a for a free consultation of your current labeling system and implement a solution that best fits your needs.
Benefits of Thermal Transfer Printing:
- Long-lasting media – Because ink seeps into the media, thermal transfer printing expands label lifespan as media survives prolonged heat and light exposure. Create lifeline identification labels and durable tags that survive beyond application temperatures and warehouse conditions.
- Device versatility – Most thermal transfer printers such as Zebra’s ZT600 industrial printers can print with both thermal transfer and direct thermal processes. Eliminate confusing workflows by streamlining all your printing needs into one rugged printer made for rugged environments.
- Media Variety – Unlike direct thermal printing, thermal transfer systems can use a wide range of label materials such as paper, polyester, and polypropylene, giving your labels greater functionality and durability. Plus, with Zebra’s Certified Consumables, labels can be crafted using over 300 pre-tested materials, further boosting label adaptability.
- Cost-effective Solution – Eliminating the need for a ribbon, direct thermal printing reduces ownership costs since you only need to purchase the heat-sensitive media. Create quick-use labels at faster printing speeds for a more focused workflow.
- Less maintenance downtime – Without ribbons, your printer faces less scheduled downtime since supplies don’t have to be reloaded. Save an average of 100 hours per year spent on replenishing ribbons. Plus, reduce your business’ overall carbon footprint with less printing waste.
- Greater printing mobility – With the lack of ribbons comes greater mobility. Direct thermal printers, like Zebra’s ZQ600 can be more compact in size, making them ideal for your mobile workforce.
Printing solutions don’t have to be overly complicated. As a Zebra Business Partner, Covington Barcoding provides close assistance in selecting quality printing media as well as durable hardware to strengthen your printing system. Count on tested expertise when you reach out to our labeling specialists for a for a free consultation of your current labeling system and implement a solution that best fits your needs.
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