What is a typeplate?

Whether it is an identification label on your mobile phone’s battery, a sticker under your car’s bonnet, an aluminium plate on a forklift, a security certification label, or a barcode tag on a rental bike, typeplates are everywhere.

A typeplate is a self-adhesive label or a metal plate affixed to a machine, product, device, or vehicle. Also known as a data plate, rating plate or name plate plate, a typeplate provides detailed information about the object it is attached to. Typeplates are often mandatory and essential for maintenance, effective troubleshooting, and ensuring a safe workspace.

What Information is printed on a typeplate?

The information you print on a typeplate depends on the regulations and standards within your industry. Most typeplates share a common set of critical details about the product, device, or machine they identify, such as:

• Model or serial number
• Brand name
• Certification
• CE marking
• Safety warnings
• Manufacturer details
• Maintenance instructions
• Electrical specifications
• Country of origin

Since requirements vary across industries, it is advisable to first identify the mandatory information before you start designing and printing your own typeplates.

What label material is suitable for your typeplates?

When choosing a label material for your nameplates, first consider your working environment. The application plays a significant role in determining the right material. For instance, we stock materials and adhesives specifically designed to withstand extremely low temperatures – down to -196°C – as well as extremely high temperatures – up to +500°C.

Additionally, fraud-resistant materials, such as checkerboard or destructible options, are widely used for typeplates in consumer electronics. These materials provide tamper evidence, leaving behind visible proof of removal attempts.

For a premium look, businesses often opt for metallised polyester or raised labels. If a self-adhesive label is not a viable option, consider durable polyethylene tags, which are weather-resistant and virtually tear-proof.

To maximise label performance, it is important to pair the material with a thermal transfer printer ribbon tailored to your requirements. Our industrial-grade ribbons are designed to enhance durability, whether your nameplates need to be weatherproof, chemical-resistant, or heat-resistant.

PALLabel: an innovative typeplate solution

If you prefer to print your own typeplates, we can supply a range of materials that offer flexibility and convenience. While self-printing allows you to create labels on demand, the downside is that labels may lack the protective laminate needed to shield them from mechanical damage, discolouration, chemicals, or scratches. This is where the PALLabel comes in.

PAL stands for Print And Laminate. The PALLabel features an attached protective laminate that you can apply immediately after printing. Thanks to its innovative folding design, you can secure the laminate in seconds, as demonstrated in our short demo video.

Our PALLabels are made from durable polyester and can be printed using a thermal transfer printer. This type of label is a popular choice for typeplates due to its wide temperature range (-40°C to +150°C) and strong adhesive properties. Moreover, the PALLabels are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, including rough surfaces like painted steel and aluminium alloys. When you use PALLabels, you can provide your products, equipment, and assets with clear and secure long-term identification.

Questions about label materials for typeplates

If you need assistance with selecting the right label material or printer ribbon, please contact Sales Manager Anton Damen for custom advice. Together, we will help you maximise the longevity and value of your typeplate investment.

I have a question