Thermal transfer labels<\/a> are for thermal transfer printers. But then, it\u2019s good to know if we can sometimes switch things up. In this case, we can\u2019t do so, mainly because of how the direct thermal mechanism differs<\/a> from the thermal transfer mechanism. As you read on, we will explain how these differences impact the possibility of using thermal transfer labels in direct thermal printers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The thermal transfer mechanism works differently from the direct thermal mechanism, and both mechanisms have different requirements. More so, each label type is suitable for distinct applications. For these reasons, it\u2019s impossible to use thermal transfer labels in direct thermal printers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s take a closer look at these reasons<\/p>\n\n\n\n Direct thermal papers have a layer of heat-sensitive chemicals<\/a> that create color in the presence of heat. As the printheads of direct thermal printers touch the paper, it emits heat to it on specific spots. These spots turn dark, thus creating the label.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thermal transfer labels do not have these heat-sensitive chemicals. As such, they cannot change colors due to heat application from the printhead. So if you use them in direct thermal printers, there will be no imprint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Imprints on thermal transfer labels are created by thermal ribbons<\/a>. When you are printing with a thermal transfer printer, you need to place a ribbon layer above the label. As both the label and ribbon pass through the printer, the hot printhead will melt the ribbon and transfer its carbon pigment to the label.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Without ribbons, you cannot make imprints on thermal transfer labels. However, direct thermals only have room for thermal paper rolls. And since direct thermal printers can\u2019t accept ribbons<\/a>, you would be unable to use thermal transfer labels on them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thermal ribbons come in various grades, sizes, and colors. There are three common grades: resin, wax\/resin, and resin ribbons. Resin ribbons are the highest grade, so they are suitable for chemical and industrial applications where durability is of importance. Wax\/resin ribbons are good for general applications with average shelf-life requirements while wax ribbons are good for short-term applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most modern thermal printers are equipped to print both direct thermal and thermal transfer labels. But you will have to set the printing mode to the specific label type you are printing per time. The printer must be on thermal transfer mode if you will use a thermal transfer paper. In the same vein, you must use direct thermal mode for direct thermal paper<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember that the direct thermal mechanism is different from the thermal transfer mechanism. So you must match the printer setting correctly with the label type. More so you will need thermal ribbons<\/a> whenever you set the printer on thermal transfer mode.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your print application should determine the printing method you\u2019ll use per time. Generally, direct thermal labels are for short-term applications while thermal transfer labels are for medium to long-term applications. Thermal transfer labels are typically more durable than direct thermal labels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Typical direct thermal applications are for short-term labels but you can use them for medium-term labels too. Use direct thermal labels for retail and logistic industries, where exposure to moisture or heat is not likely. Direct thermal synthetic media can, however, withstand rough handling and high moisture levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Examples of direct thermal applications include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Typical thermal transfer applications are for long-term labels<\/a>. These labels are ideal for applications where ribbons will deliver excellent print quality. Thermal transfers also have synthetic labels, which are ideal for outdoor applications and labeling. They can withstand scuffing and high moisture levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Use](\"https:\/\/gorillaoutput.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Depositphotos_240665702_s-2019.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWhy Will Thermal Transfer Labels Not Work In Thermal Transfer Printers?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Thermal Transfer Labels Are Not Heat-Sensitive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Thermal Transfer Labels Require Ribbons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There Are Various Ribbon Types<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Can Thermal Printers Use both Direct Thermal And Thermal Transfer Labels?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Should You Use Direct Thermal And Thermal Transfer Labels?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Direct Thermal Applications<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Thermal Transfer Applications<\/h4>\n\n\n\n