So how long your thermal printing would last depends on two main factors. The first factor is the type of thermal media you are using and the second factor is how well you store and handle the printed media. Always remember that all thermal rolls are not created equal and that they must be handled with care and stored properly both before and after printing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thermal transfer papers generally have a longer lifespan than direct thermal papers. But these papers come in different grades too. Premium grade papers last longer than standard papers. Also, synthetic media can withstand moisture better than paper media, a factor that also influences lifespan.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n You must consider your printing needs carefully before you decide the appropriate media type to use. What you need is not a media type that lasts the longest. What you need is one that would last for as long as you need it. So let\u2019s see the key factors to consider in choosing the media type that would last long enough for your printing need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The following are the key considerations you should examine to know the kind of paper that would last long enough for your printing applications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your document will be exposed to extreme temperatures, you should choose a media material that can withstand heat. Generally, direct thermal papers would turn black if the temperature of the area exceeds 150\u00b0 F (66\u00b0 C). This is because the heat-sensitive chemicals of the paper would react and darken the entire sheet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your print applications would come in contact with moisture, paper media would not be ideal. However, some premium paper media offer additional resistance to moisture. But for optimum moisture resistance, you should use synthetic media<\/a>. The lifespan of synthetic media is typically not affected by moisture. Thermal prints of synthetic material will remain legible and intact despite moisture exposure<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thicker materials are usually sturdier and more durable. So using a thicker media would add to the lifespan of your thermal printing. However, thicker materials always have fewer papers per roll. This means you would have to change the roll after printing just a few labels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should think about how long your thermal printed document would be useful. Your printing applications might not need archiving. If that is the case, you should not waste money buying expensive thermal media that have a long lifespan. Direct thermal papers are suitable for short-term labels<\/a> while thermal transfer papers are more fitting for long-term applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, when you are using thermal transfer printing, the ribbon type would also affect your document\u2019s lifespan. Wax ribbons<\/a> are the least durable while resin ribbons often create permanent applications. Wax-resin ribbons contain wax fortified with resin, so their lifespan is intermediate. <\/strong>If you are using synthetic media, you should use full-resin ribbons for a longer lifespan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some manufacturers do not add a layer of topcoat to their thermal paper. This layer provides added protection to the document against environmental exposure. Papers that have this layer often last longer than those without it because of their added resistance properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"How](\"https:\/\/gorillaoutput.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Depositphotos_63463463_s-2019.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThermal Printing Lifespan Based On Media Type<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Key considerations for choosing a suitable media type<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Heat Exposure<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Moisture<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Media Thickness<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Archiving Concerns<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The top layer of coating<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Thermal Printing Lifespan Based On Storage Conditions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n