THE DIRECT THERMAL PRINTING LABELLING MACHINE

There are a variety of labelling machine options available to businesses and home users. Although many prefer to outsource their label printing needs (allowing them to avoid investment in any labelling machine), others are interested in obtaining machines for their own use. One option for labelling is a direct thermal printing (DTP) labelling device.
 
In DTP, the printhead is heated and applied to a specially treated label. The label’s coating responds to the concentrated heat and the letters, numbers or symbols appear. Those who remember thermal FAX machines and small home computer printers will be familiar with the process. Although not as common as it once was, the DTP labelling machine is still an available option.
 
There are advantages to a DTP labelling machine. They are very inexpensive to operate because they do not require any ink, toner, or ribbon to function. The coated labels do cost more than the “standard” variety, but the overal cost is still minimal compared to many labelling machine options. The cost savings from using digital thermal printing makes the option very attractive at first glance.
 
Unfortunately, DTP has a significant downside. Over time, the application of normal every day heat or sunlight will damage the label. The coating will react to temperatures far less extreme than that of the heated print head, and labels can quickly fade or “go black” as a result of temperature fluctuation.
 
As such, a DTP labelling machine is best suited for those who need to produce inexpensive temporary labels. Those looking for a longer lasting or permanent solution should seek out another labelling machine. DTP’s overall effectiveness is limited due to instability of the labels it produces.