Label materials for electronic components
How to choose label materials for electronic components
Labels applied to electronic components, equipment, and parts are often exposed to extreme working conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to select a label material that can withstand aggressive chemicals, (extremely) high temperatures, oils, UV light, and fluctuating weather conditions. This ensures that the labels remain securely attached and that the information on the label remains readable and scannable over time.
Ask yourself the following questions to determine the most suitable label material for your needs:
- What is the application? Are the labels e.g. intended for permanent identification of company assets, or are they for internal track-and-trace during a production process?
- Should the labels be permanent or removable?
- Where will the labels be applied? Indoors or outdoors?
- Do the labels need to be heat-resistant, waterproof, or resistant to oils and chemicals?
- What type of surface will the labels be applied to? Long-term identification on a rough, flat surface requires different materials and adhesives compared to smooth or curved surfaces. The label material you choose for labelling equipment differs from that used for labelling wires and cables.
Popular materials for component labels
Once you have a clear understanding of the required properties, you can explore the range of materials in our label shop to find the best fit for your needs. Below is a selection of the most popular materials for labelling electronic components:
- Raised labels are thicker than standard labels, offering a premium look. Commonly used as a cost-effective and time-saving alternative to Resopal (EPREP) labels or engraved typeplates. Available in various colours and sizes.
- PALLabels (Print And Laminate Labels) can be laminated immediately after printing, providing extra protection against smudges, scratches, chemical exposure, and mechanical damage.
- Standard polyester material is available in a white or silver (metallised) finish, with adhesive options ranging from strong to extremely strong. Suitable for nearly all surfaces.
- Paper Labels are a cost-efficient option for identifying electronic components.
- Removable (Repositionable) labels are made from durable polypropylene and can be removed without leaving adhesive residue behind. The labels retain their adhesive strength for years and can be reused.
- Destructible label material is designed to fragment upon removal, ensuring tamper-proof labelling of your components and equipment.
- Virtually tear-proof Tag material can be attached in various ways and offer exceptionally well long-term performance outdoors.
Printing your own labels for electronic components
What do you need to to print your own labels for electronic components. First, label materials. Then a thermal transfer printer with a compatible ribbon and label design software. Our printer ribbons are specifically tailored to our label materials. Each material has been rigorously tested with our ribbons to ensure optimal print quality for your application. When it comes to designing your own labels, we recommend Loftware Nicelabel software, which is available with a free trial version so you can test it beforehand.
If you would rather outsource the printing process or require labels in custom sizes not available in our label shop, feel free to contact one of our labelling experts. They will be happy to assist you.