After years of hype, the 3D printing industry has moved onto a more critical examination of the value-add that effective additive manufacturing adoption brings to businesses and supply chains.
In a recent episode on 3D printing, the technology innovation podcast ‘Tomorrow’s Tech by IDTechEx’ explored the history and benefits of this versatile technology....
Print and Label Technology, Portable printers, Barcode Printing
Print and label technology is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of technologies used to create and print labels. Portable printers are small, lightweight printers that are designed to be easily transported and used on the go. IT Reseller news covering Barcode Printing and Labelling technology, portable/mobile printing, thermal transfer/direct thermal transfer printing, bar code labels & labelling technology, RFID Smart label printing/encoding, bar code standards, barcode scanning, Auto ID, RFDC, smart card, magnetic stripe, 2-D symbology, biometrics and matrix code.
Hobbyist astime or industrial evolution? IDTechEx explores the maturing 3D printing industry
Apr 15, 2024
Zebra Interview
Mar 04, 2024
Zebra is renowned for its innovative hardware and is a global leader in many sectors.
However, what often goes unnoticed is what makes Zebra's devices truly innovative – and that is the software they have access to.With its device software solutions known as 'Zebra DNA,' Zebra stands at the forefront of the market.
Domino Printing Sciences: Driving the global migration to 2D barcodes with GS1
Feb 14, 2024
Domino Printing Sciences (Domino) is supporting the industry’s transition to 2D barcodes as an innovation sponsor of the GS1 Global Forum 2024.The largest annual GS1 event, which takes place from 19th–22nd February in Brussels and virtually, brings together GS1 member organisations from across the globe...
A true statement piece – Ekbacken Studios introduces the first design furniture made of groundbreaking Sulapac material
Feb 08, 2024
Ekbacken Studios’ entire signature Collection no.1 is now available in biobased and eco-safe Sulapac material. By incorporating Sulapac materials into their products, Ekbacken is taking a bold stance against environmental degradation while maintaining a commitment to producing high-end design pieces.
Smart solutions in the hands of manufacturers: The ‘remote’ route to zero machine downtime
Jan 30, 2024
Unplanned downtime is placing a greater burden on manufacturers than ever before. Research from Siemens highlights that the cost of unplanned downtime is – in every sector – at least 50% more per hour than it was two years ago.
Customised production with individual 3D printed structures
Jan 03, 2024
Software pioneer CoreTechnologie has upgraded the latest version of its 3D printing software 4D_Additive with a new lattice structure module.
Predictions for the role of additive manufacturing in 2024
Dec 20, 2023
In 2023, global events coupled with the cost of living crisis have motivated manufacturers across a range of industries to re-think their centralised production models. We’ve seen more companies integrate technologies like additive manufacturing (AM) into their factory floor operations to work alongside traditional processes...
Zebra Interview - »The downsides to running old label printers«
Dec 06, 2023
Peter Holland, Regional Sales Manager Northern Europe at Jarltech Europe GmbH, spoke to David Barnes, Head of EMEA Asset Tracking Solutions (ATS), Product Management and Business Development at Zebra Technologies about the disadvantages of operating old label printers.
Bee Health benefits from AddParts innovative 3D printing solutions
Dec 05, 2023
A Bridlington-based manufacturer of nutritional supplements has solved a complex production problem with the help of an on-demand digital spares service.
Avery Dennison completes acquisition of Silver Crystal Group
Nov 29, 2023
Avery Dennison has completed the acquisition of Silver Crystal Group, an established player in sports apparel customisation and application across in-venue, direct-to-business and e-commerce platforms.
Printing and Labelling
Print and label technology is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of technologies used to create and print labels. The most common printing technologies used for labels are:
- Inkjet printing: Inkjet printers use a print head to spray ink onto a label. This is a versatile technology that can be used to print a variety of colors and images on a variety of label materials.
- Thermal transfer printing: Thermal transfer printers use heat to transfer ink from a ribbon to a label. This is a more durable printing technology than inkjet printing, and it is often used for labels that need to withstand harsh environments.
- Flexography: Flexography is a printing technology that uses a flexible printing plate to transfer ink to a label. This is a high-speed printing technology that is often used for large-volume label printing.
In addition to the printing technology, there are a number of other factors that can affect the quality of a label, such as the type of label material, the adhesive used, and the finishing process.
Latest trends in print and label technology:
- The increasing use of digital printing: Digital printing is becoming increasingly popular for label printing, as it offers a number of advantages over traditional printing methods, such as shorter lead times, lower costs, and the ability to print variable data.
- The development of new label materials: New label materials are being developed that offer a variety of benefits, such as improved durability, moisture resistance, and recyclability.
- The use of RFID tags: RFID tags are increasingly being used on labels to provide a variety of benefits, such as tracking and tracing products, preventing counterfeiting, and enabling automatic checkout.
Portable printers
There are two main types of portable printers: inkjet printers and thermal printers. Inkjet printers use a printhead to spray ink onto paper, while thermal printers use heat to create an image on special thermal paper.
Inkjet printers are generally more versatile than thermal printers, as they can print a wider range of documents and photos. However, thermal printers are typically more portable and affordable than inkjet printers.
Benefits of a portable printer:
- Portability: Portable printers are small and lightweight, making them easy to transport and use on the go.
- Convenience: Portable printers can be used to print documents and photos in a variety of locations, without having to be connected to a computer.
- Affordability: Portable printers are typically more affordable than traditional printers.
Types of printer labels:
- Direct thermal labels use heat to activate a chemical reaction in the label, which produces the image. These labels are typically less expensive than thermal transfer labels, but they are not as durable and do not last as long.
- Thermal transfer labels use heat to transfer ink from a ribbon to the label. This process produces more vibrant and durable labels than direct thermal labels. Thermal transfer labels are also more versatile and can be used in a wider range of applications.
There are also a number of other types of printer labels, including:
- Inkjet labels are printed with ink, just like regular paper. These labels are not as durable as thermal transfer labels, but they can be used for a variety of applications, including mailing labels, shipping labels, and product labels.
- Laser labels are printed with a laser printer. These labels are very durable and can be used for a variety of applications, including industrial labels, medical labels, and food labels.
- Self-adhesive labels have a sticky backing that allows them to be attached to a variety of surfaces. These labels are very convenient and are often used for shipping labels, product labels, and event tickets.
