Labeling may seem simple. Just load a vinyl tape into your printer, and start making labels. But the key is to have the right printer and the right tape... and designing vinyl label tapes correctly is not a simple task.

Of course, you don't need to design your own vinyl label tapes. But you should be buying your labeling supplies from a supplier who is experienced and knows what makes a good tape and what to avoid. Take the question of tape durability and thickness for example.

Is bigger better? Or in the case of vinyl tape, is thicker tape a more durable tape? No, it is not.

Vinyl tapes are available in many thicknesses ranging from 1.5 mil up to 90 mil and more. Each thickness has an appropriate application. For example, the thicker tapes are used to mark floors, an application in which there is a lot of physical abrasion--known as "body" hits. However, when it come to labels, which are not subject to such direct, physical abuse, thinner tapes provide greater durability. This means a 3.0 mil tape will provide greater life than a 4.0 mil tape.

Why?

It has to do with label edge profile. The most common cause of label failure is adhesive failure resulting from the adhesive drying out. Two factors tend to speed adhesive drying.

1. Small pinholes in the vinyl allow air to get at the adhesive and result in drying. Thinner vinyl has better "self healing" properties for scuffs and minor damage. Small holes will reseal or can be worked to reduce the amount of damage. This helps to keep the adhesive intact.

2. Where thinner vinyl has a big advantage is on edge profile. The thicker the vinyl, the higher the edge profile and the greater the friction will be from from anything passing over the label. The greater friction means that the force against the edge will be greater and this results in the edge lifting up slightly, allowing access for air, water and chemicals that will dry the adhesive. The small the profile, the more difficult it is to penetrate under the edge of the label, and the longer the label will last.

So if you hear someone telling you that thicker is better, don't fall for it. Bigger isn't always better... what is better is having the right tool for the job. Or when it comes to labels, having the right thickness for the labeling application.

Labels: DuraLabel Pro, DuraLabel Supplies

posted by Steve Hudgik - 2:53:00 PM - - Permanent Link to This Article

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