What is a Ribbon?
Label printers, or label tag printers with Thermal Transfer systems, require the purchase of ribbons and rolls of thermal paper to print on the label. Ribbons are very thin sheets of ink sold in rolls. In fact, the ribbons receive the heat of the label printer and are printed on the label. Ribbons, or inked ribbons, come in various types, including resin ribbons, wax ribbons, wax-resin ribbons, and super resin ribbons. Each type of ribbon is designed for specific label and tag printing requirements. Join us as we learn more about ribbons and their various types.
The difference in ribbon types
The difference in ribbon types lies in the materials used, which determines their suitability for different labels. Choosing the right ribbon is crucial for achieving accurate and long-lasting printing. At Rayan Jet website, you can explore the different types and features of these products, and if interested, collaborate with Rayan Jet for a convenient, secure, and enjoyable shopping experience.
What is the use of printer ribbon?
To print various labels, a special ink called a ribbon is used. The ribbons are similar in appearance, but due to the materials they are made of, they serve different functions in printing. This results in variations in their prices. Considering our printing requirements for durability, high-quality, or cost-effectiveness, label ribbons come in different types in the market, catering to various needs. Also, on the other hand, there is a special ribbon for each type of label to achieve the best print quality and durability.
One side of the ribbon always transfers the print to the label or tag and the other side receives the heat from the head of the label printer. Therefore, ribbon is a type of carbon paper. Of course, ribbons are rolled in two ways. Ribbons whose outer direction performs the printing operation or the so-called Ink Outside ribbons, are used for label printers, and the ribbons whose inner direction performs the printing operation or the so-called Ink Inside ribbons which are used for date printers. Ribbons are available in the market in standard sizes. Ribbons are available in widths of 40, 60, 80, 110, 160 mm and in lengths of 75, 110, 300 and 450 meters.
Types of Ribbons
After understanding the important factors for selecting the right ribbon, it is time to choose the appropriate type of ribbon for your business. Finding the right printing ribbon can be an important step in ensuring that labels are printable, readable and reliable. As mentioned, there are four main types of ribbons: wax, wax-resin, resin, and super resin. Each of these ribbon types has a wide range of subgroups such as Premium, Economy, and more.
Purchase ribbons at a reasonable price from Rayan Jet Mandegar
Our colleagues in the sales department are ready to guide you in purchasing the best and most cost-effective ribbons for your device through online and telephone support. Rayan Jet Mandegar, with twenty years of experience in the sale and service of office machines, is a suitable option for purchasing various ribbons at reasonable prices. For purchases and consultation, you can contact us at +989334205929, +989120142277.
Wax Ribbon
The wax ribbon is less resistant to temperature changes, humidity, friction, and the effects of various materials. It is more economical, prints faster, and is available in custom sizes. Wax ribbons are the most economical choice for basic and general uses such as transportation and retail labels. Their complete wax composition requires a lower melting temperature, resulting in lighter printing. The cost versus durability in this type of ribbon is very reasonable and cost-effective.
Resin Ribbon
This ribbon can be cut to the requested size. It is more resistant to temperature changes, humidity, friction, and the effects of various materials. All-resin thermal transfer ribbons are made of pure resin and melt at very high temperatures. They dissolve in the substance printed on, resulting in exceptionally high durability. This ribbon can print on various labels such as metalized, PVC, or Tyvek and offers the highest price and quality among all ribbon types.
Wax-Resin Ribbon
Wax-Resin ribbons have greater durability compared to plain wax due to thermal transfer property of this type. This printing ribbon exhibits excellent resistance to scratches, abrasion, and moisture, producing clear images on a wide range of materials. It is a suitable option for metallized, paper, and PVC labels. Wax-Resin ribbon is a combination of wax and resin-based color materials (the percentage of resin materials is higher). Printing with Wax-Resin ribbons requires higher temperature and pressure than wax ribbon, as resin has a higher melting point.
Wax-Resin ribbons are slightly more expensive than plain wax ribbons and are used in cases where a higher print durability compared to wax is desired.
Super Resin Ribbon
This type of ribbon is used for printing on asset labels, metallic surfaces, back of metals, and Tyvek. Super Resin ribbons offer the highest resistance and durability against strong detergents, chemicals, and environmental conditions. Super resin ribbon has the highest level of resistance against moisture, wear and other harsh physical conditions.
Super resin ribbon is used for printing with all kinds of label printers on plastic, metal, synthetic and aluminum labels, which has high resistance against wear, moisture and other environmental factors. It's important to note that Super Resin ribbons are not suitable for printing on paper labels and will not be printed. The use of low-quality ribbons will damage the “head” of the device.
Dimensions of Ribbons
Ribbons come in different lengths, and the choice depends on the size of the printer being used. The length of ribbons usually ranges from 75 to 450 meters. The width of ribbons also varies, and the most common width ranges from 40mm to 160mm. In most cases, ribbon sizes smaller than 110mm are compatible with many printers. Several criteria need to be considered when choosing the size of a thermal transfer ribbon, including:
Length of the Ribbon
Depending on the consumption rate and the type of activity (industrial or otherwise), the length of the ribbon can be chosen. Naturally, for industrial purposes, longer ribbons are required.
Width of the Ribbon
Choose the closest width of the ribbon to your label. For example, if you print a 6cm wide PVC label, you should buy an 8cm ribbon rather than a 10cm one. Any unused ink on the thermal transfer ribbon is otherwise wasted.
Ribbon Core Size
“Ribbon” is wrapped around a core, usually made of wood. The core comes in two sizes: one inch and half an inch, with the one-inch core being more common unless the ribbon has a short length. The standard ribbon core size, 1 inch, is approximately 3cm, but your printer may have been made based on a smaller core size. So pay attention to choose the core size based on your printer's specifications.
