An adhesive Label is consists of four layers: topcoat, facestock, adhesive, and liner that is cut into desired shapes
Label
Label Dispenser
Label dispensers allow for easy, automatic removal of labels from its liner (or backing) while rewinding what remains of the material. It works on paper, acetate, polyester, vinyl, and a lot more substrates. Label dispensers have three types namely manual, semi-automatic, and fully automated.
To use a manual label dispenser, the operator will need to rotate the label roll to separate the label from the liner. A semi-automatic uses a sensor to turn the labels which lets the operator remove and apply the label. Lastly, fully automated dispensers are a part of label applicators that systematically dispense and applied the labels.
Label Length
Label Length refers to the measurement of the label that is aligned with the line of the feed
Label Orientation
Label Orientation is the specific orientation of a label. It is crucial, especially when using a label applicator to ensure that the labels are in the correct position
Label Rewinder
A label rewinder is a device used to automatically wind up and rewind the printed labels after they have been printed and cut. The label rewinder typically consists of a motorized spindle and a tension arm that guides the label material as it is being rewound onto a core.
The label rewinder is an essential component of label printing machinery, as it helps to increase efficiency and accuracy in the printing process. As labels are printed and cut, they can become tangled or misaligned if not properly rewound, leading to wasted materials and increased downtime for operators.
The label rewinder also helps to ensure that labels are wound tightly and evenly, reducing the likelihood of errors in subsequent label application processes. Some label rewinders can also be programmed to stop the rewinding process automatically once a certain number of labels have been wound, allowing for easier batch tracking and label counting.
When choosing what label rewinder to buy, consider the core size, label width, and roll diameter:
Label Stock
Label Stock is any material, paper or film, used for labels that have adhesive on one side and print on the other
Label Width
Label Width refers to the measurement of the label that is across the line of the feed
Laminate / lamination / overlaminate
Lamination refers to when a film is applied to a label after printing. The laminate applies a layer of protection against moisture, abrasion, and UV. Types of laminates include GlossGloss refers to the degree of shine or reflective quality of a label's surface. A label can have a glossy finish, meaning that it has a shiny or reflective surface,... More, matt, and other unique finishes.
In the context of adhesive label printing, an overlaminate is a clear film layer that is applied over the printed label to protect it from scratches, moisture, and other forms of damage. Overlaminates are typically made of a clear plastic film, such as polyester or polypropylene, and are available in a range of finishes, including glossy, matte, and textured.
The process of applying an overlaminate to a label is known as lamination. Lamination is typically done using a specialized laminating machine that applies the overlaminate film to the label substrate using heat and pressure. The overlaminate film is then trimmed to the size of the label, leaving a clear protective layer over the printed image.
Overlaminates serve several important functions in the production of adhesive labels. First and foremost, they provide protection to the label, helping to prevent damage from scratches, abrasion, and moisture. They also help to enhance the appearance of the label, providing a glossy or matte finish that can make the label stand out and look more professional.
Overlaminates are commonly used in the production of labels for a wide range of applications, including product labeling, branding, and identification. They are especially important for labels that will be exposed to harsh environments or handling, such as labels for industrial equipment, machinery, or outdoor products.
Overall, overlaminates are an important component of adhesive label printing, providing protection and enhancing the appearance of the label while helping to ensure its durability and longevity.
Laser Printing
Laser Printing is a printing process that involves scanning a surface to copy an image. The copied image is then printed onto a material
Laser Printing
Laser printing is a digital printing technology that uses a laser beam to create an image or text on a label substrate. Laser printing is a high-quality and precise printing technology that can produce sharp and crisp labels with fine details and text.
Laser printing works by using a laser beam to heat the label substrate and melt toner particles onto the label surface. The label substrate is first passed through a fuser unit, which applies heat and pressure to melt the toner particles onto the label surface. The toner particles adhere to the label substrate, creating the desired image or text.
Laser printing is a popular choice for printing labels that require high resolution, sharp and detailed images, and crisp text. It is often used for printing barcodes, serial numbers, and other variable data labels that require high precision and consistency.
Laser printing is also a fast and efficient printing technology, as it does not require any set-up time and can print large volumes of labels quickly and easily. It is suitable for a wide range of label substrates, including paper, film, and foil.
Overall, laser printing is an important technique in adhesive label printing, as it offers a high-quality, precise, and efficient way to create labels with sharp and detailed images and text.
Left Edge Leading
Left Edge LeadingLeft Edge Leading is when the text or graphic is oriented to the left. See Roll Direction Chart Picture: More is when the text or graphic is oriented to the left. See Roll Direction Chart
Picture:
Lightfast ink
“Lightfast ink” refers to an ink that has the ability to resist fading or discoloration when exposed to light over an extended period of time. In the context of adhesive label printing, lightfast ink is important because labels are often used on products, packaging, or items that may be exposed to various lighting conditions, including natural and artificial light sources.
Inks that are not lightfast can experience fading, color shifting, or deterioration when subjected to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, or other environmental factors. This can lead to the label’s appearance becoming less vibrant, less accurate in terms of color representation, or even illegible if the ink deteriorates significantly.
To counteract these issues, manufacturers of adhesive labels may use lightfast inks that are formulated with pigments or dyes that have been designed to withstand the degrading effects of light exposure. These inks are tested for their resistance to fading and color changes under specific conditions, simulating the expected light exposure over time.
In industries where label durability and longevity are important, such as product packaging, outdoor signage, or archival labeling, using lightfast inks ensures that the labels maintain their intended appearance and readability for an extended period, even when exposed to varying light intensities and wavelengths. This helps maintain the aesthetic appeal and functional effectiveness of the labels, contributing to the overall quality of the labeled products or materials.