Choose The Right Ribbon For Your Printer
At G2 we offer a full line of thermal transfer ribbons in wax, wax-resin, and resin formulations–each designed for consistent, premium-quality printing.
In general, there are three types of thermal transfer ribbons to choose from: full wax, wax-resin blend, and full resin. Here is our guide to the different types of ribbon and how to help your customer choose which one is correct for their use.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Ribbons
- Precipitation/ Weather
- Temperature
- Handling & Movement
- Budget
- Chemicals & Substances
Full Wax Ribbons
Full wax ribbons are the most common type of thermal transfer ribbon due to being more economical than resin. However, depending on the environment, wax ribbons may not last as long as their resin counterparts. Wax ribbons are coated with wax based ink that melts from the heat of the printer’s printhead. These ribbons typically need a lower melting temperature than resin.
Full wax ribbons are recommended for coated and uncoated papers, flood coated papers, tags and synthetic papers.
Wax Ribbon Applications Include:
- Shipping Labels
- Shelf & Bin Labels
- Retail Labels
- Warehouse Labels
Wax-Resin Ribbons
Wax-resin ribbons are a step above wax regarding durability and longevity. These ribbons are mid-range on the affordability scale and result in a more durable printed area than the full wax. These ribbons provide more resistance to chemicals and temperature changes and are multifunctional for standard and weatherproof thermal transfer labels.
Wax-resin ribbons are compatible with coated and uncoated papers, tags, synthetic papers, BOPP, PET, and PVC films.
Common Wax-Resin Applications:
- Barcode Labels
- Shipping Labels
- Pharmaceutical & Prescription Labels
- Shelf & Bin Labels
Full Resin Ribbons
The final type of ribbon available for your thermal transfer label printing is full resin. Resin is the most expensive of the ribbon options but also the most durable. Materials printed with these ribbons can withstand abrasion, moisture, extreme temperatures and sun exposure and can be resistant to some chemicals or oils.
Typically, resin is recommended for use with plastic or synthetic paper labels.
Uses for Full Resin Ribbons:
- Medical Labels
- Chemical Labels
- Heavy Duty Labeling
| Size | Notes | Labels per roll | Roll Weight | Price per roll |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.33" x 1181' - Wax | 1" Core Diameter | N/A | N/A | $0.00 |
| 4.33" x 1181' - Wax Resin | 1" Core Diameter | N/A | N/A | $0.00 |
| 4.33" x 1181' - Wax Resin | 3" Core Diameter | N/A | N/A | $0.00 |
Ribbon: Coated Side Out
| Size | Notes | Labels per roll | Roll Weight | Price per roll |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.33" x 1181' - Wax | 1" Core Diameter | N/A | N/A | $0.00 |
| 4.33" x 1181' - Wax Resin | 1" Core Diameter | N/A | N/A | $0.00 |
| 4.33" x 1181' - Wax Resin | 3" Core Diameter | N/A | N/A | $0.00 |