Synthetic Labels for iDPRT iF4 and iT4 Printers
The synthetic labels in this category have been selected for use with iDPRT iF4 and iT4 label printers when operating in thermal transfer mode.
Available materials include polypropylene, polyester and other specialist synthetic films for applications requiring greater durability than standard paper labels.
Compatible rolls have a maximum outside diameter of 127mm (5"). The maximum media width for this category is 118mm.
Polypropylene Labels
Polypropylene labels are flexible, lightweight and resistant to water. They provide a durable alternative to paper while conforming well to many bottles, containers and packaging surfaces.
Depending on the product selected, polypropylene labels may be suitable for:
- Product and packaging labels
- Bottles, jars and containers
- Food and beverage packaging
- Health and beauty products
- Retail and promotional labels
- Barcode and QR-code labels
- Warehouse identification
Polypropylene provides a good general-purpose synthetic option when improved resistance to moisture and tearing is required.
Polyester Labels
Polyester labels are generally more rigid and durable than polypropylene. They provide excellent dimensional stability and are frequently selected for long-term identification and demanding industrial applications.
Depending on the material, adhesive and ribbon selected, polyester labels may be suitable for:
- Asset and equipment identification
- Electrical and electronic components
- Rating plates and serial-number labels
- Industrial and manufacturing applications
- Laboratory and sample identification
- Durable barcode tracking
- Outdoor or exposed applications
Always check the individual material specification to confirm that it provides the required resistance to heat, chemicals, weathering or other environmental conditions.
Compatible Label-Roll Dimensions
Synthetic labels in this category are selected according to the following requirements:
- Printing method: thermal transfer
- Label material: polypropylene, polyester or another compatible synthetic film
- Maximum print width at 203dpi: 108mm
- Maximum print width for most 300dpi iT4 models: 106mm
- Overall media width: 25mm to 118mm
- Maximum outside roll diameter: 127mm (5")
- iF4 label core diameter: 12.5mm (½") or 25mm (1")
- iT4 label core diameter: 12.5mm (½"), 25mm (1") or 38mm (1½")
- Thermal transfer ribbon required: yes
The overall media width includes both the label and its backing paper. Because the backing paper is normally slightly wider than the label itself, customers should check the complete media width rather than measuring only the label.
Although the printers accept media up to 118mm wide, the printed design must remain within the maximum printable width of the particular printer and resolution.
Selecting a Thermal Transfer Ribbon
Synthetic labels must be printed using a ribbon that is compatible with the selected material.
Wax-resin ribbons are suitable for some coated and synthetic materials where good print quality and moderate resistance to rubbing, moisture and handling are required.
Resin ribbons are generally recommended for more demanding polypropylene and polyester applications requiring greater resistance to abrasion, oils, chemicals or environmental exposure.
Not every ribbon will print successfully on every synthetic material. The label and ribbon should be tested together under the conditions in which the finished label will be used.
The ribbon should also be slightly wider than the label to provide complete print coverage and help protect the printhead.
Applications for Synthetic Labels
Synthetic labels can be used for:
- Product and packaging identification
- Asset tracking
- Electrical component labels
- Industrial and manufacturing labels
- Laboratory and healthcare identification
- Bottle and container labels
- Warehouse and racking labels
- Chemical and drum labels
- Durable barcode and QR-code labels
- Labels exposed to moisture or frequent handling
Choosing the Correct Core Size
Labels on 12.5mm and 25mm cores can be selected for both the iF4 and iT4, provided the remaining roll dimensions are compatible.
Labels on 38mm cores should only be selected for compatible iT4 models. The iF4’s standard media specification does not include a 38mm label core.
Choosing the Correct Synthetic Labels
Before ordering, consider the surface to which the label will be applied and the conditions it must withstand. Temperature, moisture, chemicals, abrasion, outdoor exposure and the required lifespan can all influence the choice of material, adhesive and ribbon.
You should also check the label dimensions, complete backing-paper width, core diameter and outside roll diameter. The overall media width must be between 25mm and 118mm, and the roll must not exceed 127mm in outside diameter.
If you are unsure which synthetic label and ribbon combination to order, please contact us with the exact printer model and details of the application. Our team will be happy to recommend a suitable material, adhesive and thermal transfer ribbon.