Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer: Which One To Choose?

09 Sep 2023

To answer this question, it's essential to understand how your business applies barcode labels. With the advancements in direct thermal label characteristics, some applications that were once considered to require thermal transfer ribbons can now be addressed with direct thermal labels.

Both solutions come with their own set of pros and cons. For instance, in the healthcare industry, image reliability is crucial. However, using a thermal transfer ribbon can pose the risk of patient information leaking from the used ribbon. Opting for direct thermal paper becomes a more optimal solution in such cases. On the other hand, for some more stringent requirements, thermal transfer ribbons might be better suited to withstand harsh environments.

This article will provide step-by-step guidance to help you navigate the world of thermal printing technology.

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What is Thermal Printing?

Thermal printing, in general, operates based on the Joule effect, converting electrical energy into thermal energy. In this process, images are created by a thermal printer equipped with hundreds of small thermal resistors (resistor dots) that act upon thermal printing material.

The thermal printing material can be direct thermal paper (requiring no ink ribbon) or thermal transfer ribbon used with thermal transfer labels. So, what sets these two types apart?

Direct thermal printing occurs when an image is generated by selectively heating points on thermal paper as it passes through the print head. The specialized coating on the paper reacts to the heat, turning dark and creating the image.

On the other hand, thermal transfer printing involves releasing heat energy from the print head when it comes into contact with a ribbon of thermal transfer ink. This heat causes the ink to melt and transfer onto the thermal transfer label.

Explore different types of thermal transfer ink: wax, wax resin, and resin.

Comparison Table Between Direct Thermal Paper and Thermal Transfer Ribbon

Materials	Advantage	Disadvantage	Applied Industries	Typical general characteristics of Ricoh products
Direct Thermal Paper	Simple operation, no ink ribbon required. Lightweight of shipment Take less storage space Environment protection	Heat sensitivity, light sensitivity, and many other environmental conditions when storing and preserving	Food Retail Medical Logistics Warehouse management	Anti-friction, good cold resistance (-40^oC), and high temperature resistance (up to 100^oC) Resistance to plasticizer, alcohol High resolution (Can print small characters and fine lines) Image preservation from 1 year - 22 years
Thermal Transfer Ribbon	Applicable to a variety of industries Good resistance to chemicals, high temperatures, or abrasion Long-lasting image preservation	Takes time to operate, adjust the printer, and replace appropriate receiving materials Waste of used ribbon in the landfill	Automotive Electronics Medical Manufacturing Logistics Retail	High scratch resistance Chemical resistance Heat sensitivity, high resolution (Can print small characters and fine lines) High heat resistance (Up to 200^oC)

Recommendations for Industries Prioritizing Durability and Chemical Resistance

Technology: Thermal Transfer
Material: Thermal Transfer Ink Ribbon
Recommended Ricoh Products: B110CU, B110CR, B125CS, B120EC
Key Features: Exceptional scratch resistance, superior chemical resistance, high resolution and thermal sensitivity, UL certification (B110CR & B110CU only)

Recommendations for Industries Prioritizing High-Resolution

Technology: Thermal Transfer
Material: Thermal Transfer Ink Ribbon
Recommended Ricoh Products: B110CR, B110A
Key Features: High-resolution printing (Can print even small characters and fine lines), chemical and solvent resistance, high-temperature resistance up to 150°C, excellent scratch and abrasion resistance

Recommendations for Industries Prioritizing Food Safety, Water Resistance, or Freezing Tolerance

Technology: Direct Thermal
Material: Direct Thermal Paper, Direct Thermal Film
Recommended Ricoh Products: 135LA-1 W2-ST2, 150LCS-B W2–ST2, 150LCS– B W2–CL2, 150LA-1 W2-CL2
Key Features: Resistance to plastics and alcohols, good heat resistance up to 90°C, long-term retention of thermal print images for over a year
Thermal Film material performs well in water environments, freezer grade adhesive, excellent heat resistance, oil, plasticizer, and alcohol resistance. It can be die-cut or cut to a size customized according to your requirements.

Why is it important to choose the appropriate type?

Selecting the right paper and ink for your industry and needs is crucial to ensure efficiency and save time and investment costs. Direct thermal printing may be suitable if you need simplicity and ease of use.

However, thermal transfer technology with compatible materials is the way for applications requiring durability, chemical resistance, high resolution, and image longevity. Make the right choice to optimize your label printing process.

Contact Ricoh Vietnam for free consultation and operating instructions for barcode solutions via [email protected] or +84 28 3528 5252

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