Resin Vs Wax Ribbon, What To Choose?

wax ribbon
Wax ribbons, also known as “resin-enhanced wax” ribbons, are the most common (and less expensive), and are suitable for uncoated or matte-coated labels.

Durability:
Wax tape is not as durable as other types, but it is also less expensive. The images they create are more resistant to fading than thermal labels, but are still susceptible to scratches and smudges. Wax-based ribbons have lower chemical resistance compared to wax resins or resins.

How does this process work?
All wax ribbons contain resin. The PET film is coated with a mixture of wax and resin ink which has been melted. The reverse side of the roll is back-coated, and the roll is cut into different widths and lengths for different printer models. The printhead assembly in the printer receives digital signals for rapid heating and cooling. When heated, they transfer the ink from the ribbon to the label.

use
Wax tapes are used in a variety of applications requiring short-term or lightfastness, such as shipping labels, retail labels, storage locations, signage, and more. They are the most popular.

Wax Resin Ribbon
Wax resin ribbons are usually half wax and half resin. They are more expensive than wax tape, but as a substrate they are more durable and versatile. They can be printed on virtually any label or packaging film.

Durability:
Wax resins are more durable than waxes in terms of scratch and stain resistance, and are resistant to moderate to harsh chemicals and high temperatures.

How does this process work?
This process is the same as the wax ribbon process, except that instead of using nearly all the wax, this method separates the wax and resin ink more evenly.

use:
Wax resin ribbons are used in applications requiring additional abrasion, chemical or environmental resistance. Lab labels, exterior product/UL labels, and cold chain/freeze applications are all examples where increased durability is necessary if barcodes do not degrade.

Resin Ribbon
Most resin ribbons still contain some wax, but they are mostly pure ink resins. These are the most durable and most expensive TTRs, designed for the most demanding applications, and are compatible with gloss coated paper labels, synthetic film labels such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and specialty labels such as polyamide, acrylic, and textile Receptor compatible.

durability
These ribbon formulations are by far the most durable. Extreme heat and cold, harsh chemicals and solvents, harsh scratches, and external environments are not a match for a specific resin ribbon with the proper label stock.

How does this process work?
The process changes as the resin content of the ribbon increases, as these inks require more energy to melt on the substrate. To transfer ink effectively and create a long-lasting image, the printhead must adjust the darkness and speed settings.

use
Some harsh environment or mission critical applications require resin tape due to its high durability. Medical Device Labels, Electronic Components/PCB Labels, Vessel Care Labels, Plant Stacking, Chemical Drum Labels and many more applications.

When it comes to printing labels, barcodes, and product information on packaging, two of the most popular options are resin ribbons and wax ribbons. With a variety of features to consider, it can be difficult to determine which one is the ideal choice for your needs. To help you make an informed decision, this article will explore the differences between resin and wax ribbon, their pros and cons, and what to consider when making your selection.

Both resin-based and wax-based ribbons offer similar qualities such as strong adhesion onto many materials for a durable print that lasts. However, there are some distinct differences between them. Here is a breakdown of each type of ribbon:

Resin Ribbons:

Resin ribbons consist of polyamide film with a layer of wax-resin ink on one side. This type of ribbon is extremely durable due to its chemical structure; it resists smears, scuffs and abrasions. It also offers superior resistance against solvents and extreme temperatures (from -40°F to 302°F). Furthermore, resin ribbons can adhere to challenging surfaces such as polypropylene or polyethylene which makes them ideal for printing on highly curved objects like bottles or plastic containers.

Pros: High durability & solvent/temperature resistance; Superior adhesion onto curved surfaces; Lower cost than other options
Cons: Generally not suitable for outdoor environments; Heavier & bulkier than wax ribbons

Wax Ribbons:
Wax ribbons are made from polyester film with a layer of hot-melt wax ink on one side. These ribbons are best suited for flat surfaces as they don’t offer the same level of adhesive strength as resin based ones do when applied to contoured items. They are also more lightweight compared to resin ribbons which makes them easier to transport from place to place in high quantities. Moreover, wax ribbons produce better results when used in outdoor applications due to their greater resistance against sunlight and moisture damage.
Pros: Light weight & easy transportation; Better results in outdoor applications; Low melting point Cons: Not suitable for curved/challenging surfaces; No solvent resistance; Higher cost than other options

When choosing between resin vs wax ribbon , you must consider factors such as environment (indoor or outdoor), surface material (flat or contoured) and budget before making your decision. For example if you need a label that will withstand harsh conditions then go with a resin-based ribbon since it offers superior temperature/solvent resistance properties over a wax ribbon under the same conditions. On the other hand if you’re looking for an affordable solution that will work well indoors then go with a cheaper wax option instead since this material is more lightweight than its counterpart thus being easier to transport from place to place in high quantities without taking up too much space in storage facilities or warehouses .

Ultimately , selecting between Resin vs Wax Ribbon comes down to understanding your specific needs before deciding which type is right for you . If budget isn’t an issue then opt for a quality Resin Ribbon that will stand up against all types of tough conditions while providing superior performance . Alternatively , if cost is an important factor then choose Wax Ribbon which has lower costs per roll but is not suitable for extreme environments . The important thing here is that you pick the right type depending on what your project requires !

No matter what kind of label printing requirements you have , Hangzhou Sinoco Industry Co., Ltd can provide you with excellent options at competitive prices . Our range includes both Resin Ribbons & Wax Ribbons enabling us meet different demands while delivering top notch results every time! Whether it’s thermal transfer labels , barcodes , product information sticker labels or anything else – we have got you covered! Get in touch today and see how Hangzhou Sinoco Industry Co., Ltd can help solve all your printing needs !