Thin Labels for Industrial and Electronic Equipment

Melrose produces thin labels (.003” to .006” including lamination and adhesive) for industrial and electronic equipment Melrose’s printing technologies include digital printing, screen printing, and flexography printing technologies. We print precisely matched PMS spot colors as well as full color 4 or 6 color process printed images. We offer a broad line of UL recognized constructions

Label Materials. The label materials typically used for electronic and industrial applications are typically polyester or vinyl:

• Polyester: white (matte or gloss), silver (matte, bright or brush), or clear polyester (matte or gloss) material. Most common equipment labeling material for equipment used indoors.
• Vinyl: White. Best used when material cost is an important cost consideration, when the label will be used outdoors, or label flexibility or contour ability is required.

Laminations of gloss or matte clear polyester, or textured clear velvet polycarbonate are frequently added for the best long term durability. Depending on the printing technology, laminations may be omitted, or UV clear coats used in place of a lamination.

Adhesives. It is important to consider the surface that the label is being applied to when specifying a label. Most industrial or electronic labeling surfaces are “high surface energy”, smooth, and the external environment is not severe. These surfaces have an adhesive chemistry that is optimal. Textured surfaces, those with low surface energy (e.g., some powder coats and uncross linked plastics), or labels that will be used in severe environments require other adhesive formulations. Melrose can assist you in making the correct adhesive specification.

Printing Technologies: Melrose will recommend the optimal printing technology (digital printing, screen printing, flexography printing) based on the requirements of your job. Screen and flexography printing processes can produce labels with spot pms colors as well as full color 4 color process images. Digital printing produces labels using either 4 or 6 color process printing.

• Digital printing is more appropriate when:
  • When quantities or the amount of material required by the job is relatively small
  • Number of printed colors increases, or the image is full color. (since no plates, or films are required)
  • Exposure is indoor or limited outdoor life is expected
  • Precise PMS color matches are not required (since digital printing is either 4 or 6 color process)

• Screen printing process is more appropriate when:
  • Long term outdoor exposure is anticipated (screen printed inks resist fading)
  • Quantities are low to moderate
  • Number of colors is limited
  • Color brightness, intensity, or special effects (e.g., metallic) are desired
  • Label size is large

• Flexography printing is more appropriate when
  • Exposure is indoor or limited outdoor life is required
  • Quantities are relatively high