Adhesion is one of five big factors that can have a negative impact on label performance. Here are five label applications and the factors that can have a significant impact on label adhesion.

Labels can be successfully applied to nearly any surface: fabrics, film, vinyl, paper, plastics, glass, and more — but without the right adhesive, your label won’t stick. Containers that are exposed to hot or cold conditions during filling, rough and textured surfaces, small diameter and flexible packages can all cause edge peeling or worse.

Food labels

During the packaging process, some foods are injected into their containers at temperatures approaching 130-150° F. Care must be taken to select label stock and an adhesive that can beat the heat without experiencing edge lifting. Other types of food are packaged at low temperatures (25° F or less). An alternate temperature adhesive is recommended to prevent the label from separating from its package.

Flexible containers

Some products, such as motor oil, are packaged in flexible polyethylene containers that are quickly discarded after they are emptied of their contents. For this type of application, the label and adhesive must be able to withstand flexing and be low cost.

Rough and textured surfaces

When you’re specifying labels and adhesives for rough or textured surfaces, remember that only a fraction of the surface area of the label is making contact with the container. This can have a significant impact on the type of adhesive used.

Medical labels

Medical labels must be designed to fit on tight circumference objects, such as test tubes. This requires labels and adhesives with a certain degree of pliability. Also, in some cases, labels must be removable. These unique needs require special adhesives.

Steel drums

Large steel drums usually require big labels that not every label manufacturer can produce. Also, they are often exposed to environmental extremes – both heat and cold – as well as a variety of corrosive liquids that can affect their ability to remain adhered to the drums. There are specific materials designed for use on steel drums. Please contact us to learn more.

How to avoid adhesion problems

Plan your label in advance. Anticipate where it will be attached and what conditions the container is likely to encounter throughout its life cycle. Address these details during the design process to prevent production headaches later. Make sure your label provider clearly understands:

• Exactly what your labeling application is,
• What the label will be attached to, and
• What conditions it must withstand.

Now that you have a better understanding of the ways in which adhesion can affect label life, why not download our new eGuide, How to Create the Perfect Label: The 5 Most Important Questions to Ask, to learn more about the other four factors.