industrial labels Archives | T&L Graphic Systems

How to “stick it” to label adhesion problems

March 29, 2016 By Doug Danosky

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.

Avoid These Environmental Label Fails

March 24, 2016 By Doug Danosky

Environmental label fails

The environment is one of five big factors that can have a negative impact on label performance.

Hot, cold and moist conditions can cause labels to peel, fall off, fade and smear. Exposure to everyday liquids or UV exposure may cause reactions with the color and adhesiveness of a label. In other cases, productivity and safety could be affected if product labels become damaged or aren’t clearly visible.

Here are four label applications and the types of environmental factors that can have a significant impact on label life:

Furniture Labels

In the furniture industry, labels are applied to various fabrics. Most furniture labels have very specific legal requirements: they must be made of specific materials, and they cannot come off or wear over time with use.

Medical and Pharmaceutical Labels

Medical and pharmaceutical labels must be created to adhere correctly to withstand today’s fast-paced modern medical environments. High quality medical labels can be designed to be tamper-resistant and/or fluid-resistant, as well as laminated and sealed to withstand a wide variety of medical environments.

Industrial, Shipping and Logistics Labels

Warehouse productivity is increased when logistics teams aren’t worried about malfunctioning labels. Industrial, shipping and logistics labels must be easily scannable and readable for streamlined processes and effective inventory control. Plus, you’ll need labels tough enough to withstand being handled and tossed around.

Other Labels

Chemicals in lotions, hand sanitizers, and other everyday products can cause reactions with the color and adhesiveness of a label. It’s important for your label to be able to stand up to these chemicals, as well as other environmental factors, especially if permanence is required.

If your product will be subject to sun exposure, you may want a UV label coating to seal and protect the print. As an added bonus, it will help the colors pop and draw more attention to the label.

If your label application requires extra security measures, thermochromatic inks and labels are another option. These labels change color when touched to ensure sensitive materials are never tampered with.

Conclusion

Plan your label in advance. Anticipate where it will be attached, and what environmental conditions that carrier is likely to encounter throughout its life cycle. Addressing these details during the design process will ensure a better overall experience with your label provider, and will help prevent production headaches later.

Now that you have a better understanding of the ways in which the environment 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.

Four Key Benefits of Customized Industrial, Shipping and Logistics Labels

January 20, 2016 By Steve Danosky

Scanning label on the box with barcode scanner

The right logistics label solutions can have a positive effect on your inventory control and shipping workflows. Barcode labels can provide easier tracking of company assets from initial receipt to final disposition. Industrial label solutions can be used throughout warehouses and factories to provide added help in locating the right parts and components quickly and efficiently. Here are four of the most important ways in which logistics labels can benefit your company. [Read more…]

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