Thermal sticker paper is a type of paper that is coated with a special thermal-sensitive material. This coating allows the paper to react to heat, typically from a thermal printer, by changing color or becoming dark in specific areas. The thermal printing process doesn't involve ink or toner; instead, it relies on heat to produce images or text.
There are two main types of thermal sticker paper:
Direct Thermal Sticker Paper:
In direct thermal printing, the thermal paper contains chemicals that react to heat, causing a color change in the paper where it's heated. This type of thermal paper is often used for labels, receipts, and barcode printing.
Direct thermal printing is commonly found in point-of-sale systems, shipping labels, and other applications where a temporary and cost-effective printing solution is sufficient.
Thermal Transfer Sticker Paper:
In thermal transfer printing, a thermal ribbon is used along with the thermal paper. The printer's printhead applies heat to the ribbon, and the ink on the ribbon is transferred to the paper, creating the printed image.
Thermal transfer printing is often used when a more durable and long-lasting print is required. It is suitable for applications such as product labeling, asset tracking, and barcoding.
Thermal sticker paper has several advantages, including:
Cost-Effectiveness: Direct thermal printing eliminates the need for ink or toner, making it a cost-effective solution for certain applications.
Speed: Thermal printing is often faster than traditional printing methods, making it suitable for applications that require high-speed printing.
Simplicity: Thermal printers are relatively simple and require less maintenance compared to some other types of printers.
However, it's important to note that direct thermal printing is sensitive to heat and light, which may cause the print to fade over time. Thermal transfer printing tends to offer better longevity and resistance to environmental factors. The choice between direct thermal and thermal transfer depends on the specific requirements of the application.
