Materials Used in High-Temperature Labels
Materials Used in High-Temperature Labels
High-temperature labels are essential in industries where standard labelling materials would degrade, melt or lose adhesion due to heat.
These specialist labels are designed to remain intact and readable even when exposed to extreme temperatures, making them critical in sectors such as electronics manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, metal processing and sterilisation environments.
The materials used in these labels are carefully selected to withstand both direct heat and the stresses that come with high-temperature operations.
1. Substrate Materials
The most important component of a high-temperature label is the substrate. This is the base material onto which print is applied. Common materials include:
Polyimide: Known for its excellent thermal stability. Polyimide films (such as Kapton®) are widely used in electronics manufacturing, especially during the soldering process. They can withstand temperatures up to around 350°C and even higher for short bursts. Polyimide also resists chemicals, abrasion and UV exposure, making it ideal for harsh environments.
Polyester (PET): While not as heat resistant as polyimide, treated polyester labels can endure temperatures of up to 150–250°C, depending on the formulation. They are more cost-effective and suitable for less extreme applications such as autoclave sterilisation or low-heat industrial processes.
Aluminium Foil: Labels made with an aluminium base and coated with an inorganic top layer can endure temperatures of 500–600°C. These are often used in metal processing or aerospace settings where heat exposure is intense and prolonged.
Ceramic-Coated Films: In highly specialised cases, ceramic-coated polymer films can withstand extreme temperatures of up to 1250°C. These are used in environments like furnaces or high-heat testing chambers.
2. Adhesives
Even the best label substrate is useless without a suitable adhesive. In high-temperature environments, the adhesive must bond firmly to surfaces without degrading.
Silicone Adhesives: Silicone is the most common choice for high-heat applications. It performs well at elevated temperatures and maintains adhesion over time, even after repeated heating and cooling cycles.
Acrylic Adhesives: High-performance acrylic adhesives can also withstand elevated temperatures (up to around 200°C), especially when enhanced with heat stabilisers. They offer a good balance of performance and affordability in moderate heat settings.
3. Top Coats and Print Compatibility
Many high-temperature labels come with a specially treated topcoat that allows for thermal transfer printing. This method uses heat and a resin-based ribbon to print durable information onto the label. Resin ribbons are required to ensure the print itself doesn’t degrade under high heat.
Conclusion
Choosing the right materials for high-temperature labels depends on the specific application and exposure conditions. Polyimide offers high heat resistance for electronics, while polyester is suitable for lower temperature needs. Aluminium and ceramic-coated labels serve ultra-high heat applications. Paired with the right adhesive and print method, these materials ensure labels remain legible and firmly attached, even under the toughest conditions.
What We’ve Learned About Label Adhesives in Extreme Conditions
What We’ve Learned About Label Adhesives in Extreme Conditions
In today’s busy world, knowing what’s what and where it is is super important. But what happens when your labels have to deal with high/freezing temperatures, nasty chemicals, constant water, or even rough rubbing?
Regular sticky labels just won’t cut it. This is where special label adhesive comes in, designed to handle the toughest conditions.
At Expert Labels, we’ve spent many years learning all about glues. We’ve figured out what makes a label stick, even under extreme conditions.
Our main goal isn’t just to make it stick, but to make sure it stays in place and readable for a long period of time. This protects important info, keeps things safe, and keeps your brand looking good, no matter the challenge.
The Big Problem: Sticking in Tough Spots
A label’s adhesive needs to create a strong bond between the label and the surface it’s on. In a normal office, that’s usually easy. But add these things, and it gets tricky:
- Extreme Temperatures: Think of freezers as cold as the North Pole (-196°C) or ovens hot enough to bake bricks (>200°C). Big temperature changes can make glue crack and fall off, or get soft and gooey.
- Chemicals: Strong cleaners, acids, or oils can break down the glue, wash away the ink, and make your label impossible to read. In the UK, labels on chemical containers shipped by sea have to meet tough rules (like BS 5609) to stay readable.
- Water and Wetness: Being constantly wet, having water drip on them, or even being dunked in liquid can make some glues weak, causing labels to peel off.
- Rubbing and Wear: If labels are rubbed a lot, hit often, or left outside in the wind and rain, they can wear down and the glue can fail.
- Sunlight (UV rays): Too much sun can break down the glue over time, making it turn yellow, become brittle, and lose its stick.
- Difficult Surfaces: Some plastics or rough surfaces are hard to stick to. You need special glues that can spread out and grab on properly.
Our Discoveries: What Makes Labels Stick in Extremes
- Beyond “Permanent”: Super Strong Acrylic Glues: Most glues say “permanent,” but for truly tough conditions, we use special acrylic-based glues. They’re great because they are:
- Versatile: They can stick to many different surfaces, even those tricky plastics, painted metals, and bumpy surfaces.
- Weatherproof: They naturally fight off sun damage, water, and many common chemicals. Perfect for outdoor use or places where chemicals might splash.
- Temperature Ready: They’re made to keep their strong stick across a huge range of temperatures.
- Special Glues for Specific Temperatures: There’s no one-size-fits-all glue for extreme heat or cold. We’ve learned to match the glue to the temperature:
- High-Heat Glues: These glues have special chemicals that stop them from getting soft, oozing, or burning at very high temperatures. For example, you’ll find these on labels used in electronics factories, as they go through hot ovens.
- Super Cold (Cryogenic) Glues: These glues need to be super flexible so they don’t snap in extreme cold. They’re designed to stick right away to frozen things and handle freezing and thawing many times. Essential for labs and medical research.
- Chemical Resistance: It’s a Team Effort: Making a label resist chemicals isn’t just about the glue. It’s about using multiple layers:
- Tough Label Materials: Materials like polyester or vinyl are naturally good at resisting chemicals.
- Strong Acrylic Glues: These glues form a powerful bond that chemicals struggle to get through.
- Protective Coatings: Adding clear top layers or laminates creates an extra shield, protecting both the printing and the glue from chemicals and rubbing. We have performed thorough testing with specific chemicals to make sure they work.
- The Hidden Secret: How You Prepare the Surface: Even the best glue can fail if the surface isn’t ready.
- Surface Match: It’s vital to understand how “sticky” (or non-sticky) a surface is. Glues are made to spread out well on different types of surfaces.
- Cleanliness is Key: Dirt, oil, and moisture are glue killers. Cleaning the surface properly is the first step for a strong bond.
- Right Pressure: Pushing down firmly and evenly when applying the label helps the glue grab on fully, helping make the strongest bond possible.
What This Means for Your Business
Our constant learning about label glues in tough conditions means we can offer solid solutions for your hardest labelling problems. Whether you’re tracking equipment in a busy UK factory, identifying samples in a super-cold lab, or labelling products that live outside in the British weather, knowing these things makes sure your labels always do their job.
Don’t let your labels be the weak spot when things get tough.
GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/product-labelling-the-law
Last Updated: October 1, 2025
Mistakes Businesses Make Integrating Label Printing Software
Mistakes Businesses Make Integrating Label Printing Software
Label printing software can help make your business run more smoothly, improve accuracy, and save time. But many businesses face problems when they try to integrate this software into their systems. These issues can lead to mistakes, delays, and even legal problems. By learning from these common mistakes, businesses can make sure their software integration goes well.
1. Not Checking if the Software Works with Your Systems
A common problem is failing to check if the label printing software is fully compatible with the current systems, like your Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). If the software doesn’t work well with your current setup, it can cause data errors and printing mistakes, slowing everything down.
Before choosing software, check if it works well with your current systems. Test it out first, or be ready to make changes to your other systems if needed. Doing this early will help avoid problems later.
2. Not Training Staff Properly
Even the best label printing software won’t perform well if your staff don’t know how to use it properly. Without the right training, workers might make mistakes, like choosing the wrong settings or entering incorrect information, leading to wrong labels or delays.
Make sure all your staff are properly trained on the software. Training should cover everything from basic use to how to fix common issues.
Regular refreshers and extra support will help them stay up-to-date and confident.
3. Not Testing Enough Before Going Live
A big mistake is launching the software without fully testing it first. If it’s not properly tested, you may miss problems like labels printing wrong, barcodes not scanning, or the software not working as expected.
Always test the software before it goes live. Use real product data and print labels on different materials to make sure everything works.
Testing helps to identify the problems early so they can be fixed before causing bigger issues.
Pharma companies are good at this. They have comprehensive validation processes. They document what needs to be tested then run through a script documenting the results. Think that might help you? We do that for clients. Contact us for help.
4. Not Planning for Future Growth
As your business grows, so will your labelling needs. Some businesses choose software without thinking about how it will handle more products or increased production.
This can slow down production and cause extra costs when your needs change.
Pick software that can grow with your business. Look for solutions that are easy to upgrade and add new features when needed.
Cloud based software is often a good option for businesses that need flexibility and scalability.
5. Forgetting About Regulatory Compliance
If you work in industries like food, pharmaceuticals and/or chemicals; following the rules for labelling is very important. Not ensuring that your label printing software meets legal requirements can lead to fines, product recalls, and damage to your business.
Make sure your software meets all the necessary regulations, like EU CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) rules or FDA standards. The software should help you create labels that include the correct symbols, warnings, and codes.
Conclusion
Integrating label printing software into your business can make things easier and more efficient. But to get it right, avoid common mistakes like ignoring compatibility, skipping training, or not checking for compliance. By planning carefully and using the right tools, you can improve your processes, reduce errors, and save time.
To make your label printing integration as smooth as possible, download our free checklist or get in touch with us. Proper planning now can save you time and trouble in the future.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Useful Links:
GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance
Common Mistakes When Choosing Labels for High-Abrasion Surfaces
Common Mistakes When Choosing Labels for High-Abrasion Surfaces
Choosing the right labels for surfaces that wear down quickly is important to ensure they stay readable and last longer. Labels used on rough surfaces, like industrial machines or outdoor equipment, face constant wear and tear. Many businesses make common mistakes that can lead to labels peeling off, fading, or becoming unreadable.
In this article, we’ll go through these mistakes and offer simple solutions.
1. Choosing the Wrong Adhesive
One of the biggest mistakes is picking the wrong adhesive for rough or uneven surfaces. Standard adhesives might not stick properly, causing labels to peel off or fail under pressure.
Use stronger, industrial-grade adhesives that are designed for tough surfaces. Rubber-based adhesives or acrylic adhesives are great for high-wear areas because they have a better stick and stay in place longer, even on rough or uneven surfaces.
2. Not Cleaning the Surface Properly
Another common mistake is applying labels to dirty or oily surfaces. Dirt, oil, and other substances can stop the label from sticking properly, causing it to come off too soon.
Before applying labels, make sure to clean the surface thoroughly. Use the right cleaning solution to remove dirt, oil, or grease, and allow the surface to dry completely.
3. Ignoring Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions like sunlight, moisture, or extreme temperatures can damage labels over time. Labels that aren’t designed for these conditions might fade, peel, or become unreadable.
Choose labels that are made for the environment they will be in. If labels are going to be outside, use UV-resistant labels.
For wet or chemical environments, waterproof and chemical-resistant labels are necessary. Laminated labels can also provide extra protection against wear and tear.
4. Skipping Tests Before Full Use
One mistake businesses often make is not testing labels before using them. Labels might work in early tests but fail under real conditions.
Testing in real-world conditions will help you spot any problems early, so you can fix them before they become a bigger issue.
5. Choosing Looks Over Durability
Sometimes, businesses focus too much on how the label looks and forget about how durable it needs to be. Labels that look good but aren’t tough enough won’t last on high-wear surfaces.
While labels should look good, make sure they are made from durable materials that can handle the rough conditions they may face. The label’s function should always come before its appearance when it comes to high-abrasion surfaces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right labels for high-abrasion surfaces is essential for keeping labels readable and in place over time. By avoiding mistakes like using the wrong adhesive, not cleaning the surface properly, ignoring environmental conditions, skipping tests, and prioritising looks over durability, you can make sure your labels last longer and perform better.
If you’re unsure which labels to use, we’re here to help! Contact us today for a consultation or to test our labels in your specific conditions.
Updated on August 27, 2025
Useful Links:
GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/product-labelling-the-law
Last Updated: 1st July 2025
5 Key Lessons Learned from Label Printing Failures
5 Key Lessons Learned from Label Printing Failures
Let’s be honest – label printing might seem straightforward, but when it goes wrong, it can be a proper headache. Whether you’re a small business or a big brand, avoiding mistakes can save you time, money, and a fair bit of stress. Here are five lessons we’ve picked up (sometimes the hard way!) that’ll help you steer clear of common label printing blunders.
1. Clear Specifications Are Essential
One of the biggest mistakes in label printing is not having clear instructions. If you don’t specify details like size, material, or design clearly from the start, you may end up with labels that don’t meet your needs.
Lesson: Be crystal clear. Write it all down – the finer the detail, the better. A little extra time upfront saves a lot of back-and-forth later.
2. Always Test Before Printing in Bulk
It might be tempting to go full steam ahead, but jumping straight into a big print job without a test is a classic mistake. What looks fab on your computer might look completely different in real life – colours, spacing, or even the feel of the material.
Lesson: Always, always ask for a sample proof before printing in bulk. It’s a small step that can save you a right mess down the line.
3. Consistency Matters
There’s nothing more frustrating than labels that look slightly “off” – one batch’s colour doesn’t match the next, or the font’s just a bit different. It chips away at your brand’s credibility.
Lesson: Work with printers who know what they’re doing and have systems in place to keep everything uniform. Always double-check before giving the final go-ahead.
4. Choose the Right Vendor
Not all printers are created equal. Some might be brilliant at business cards but totally clueless about waterproof product labels. Picking the wrong vendor can mean missed deadlines and subpar results.
Lesson: Do your homework. Look at their previous work, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away if it doesn’t feel right. A good printer is worth their weight in gold.
5. Plan for Extra Costs
Ah, the classic “surprise” charges – extra fees for last-minute tweaks, premium materials, or delivery costs that weren’t mentioned. It all adds up, and fast.
Lesson: Build a budget with wiggle room. Ask for a full breakdown of costs upfront, so nothing catches you off guard. Better safe than skint!
6. Ignoring Country-Specific Requirements
Each country may have unique requirements around symbols, language, warnings, and layouts.
Always research local labelling laws before exporting or distributing. One label does not fit all markets.
By keeping these lessons in mind, you can avoid common label printing mistakes and ensure a smoother, more successful project.
Thinking about printing your own labels?
Why not start with a sample? See the quality for yourself – we’re here to make sure your labels look spot-on from the first print to the last.
Useful Links:
GOV.UK – Product Labelling Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/product-labelling-the-law
Last Updated: 1st July 2025
Labelling Regulations: A Comprehensive Overview for Pharma
Labelling Regulations: A Comprehensive Overview for Pharma
One Label. One Mistake. One Disaster.
In the world of medical and pharmaceutical products, a simple labelling error isn’t just a typo, it can mean product recalls, regulatory fines, or even patient harm. Whether you’re printing dosage details or managing multi-country packaging, compliance isn’t optional; it’s critical.
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Information
Regulators like the MHRA require accurate details on medication strength, dosage, ingredients, storage conditions, and expiry dates. Errors here are not just non-compliant, they can harm patients.
Always cross-check against approved product information and regularly review your templates to match current regulations.
2. Non-Readable or Poor-Quality Printing
Small fonts, smudged text, or low-contrast colours can render labels unreadable, especially for vulnerable patients.
Use high-contrast colours, legible fonts, and test your labels for readability under different lighting and angles. Don’t forget elderly or visually impaired users.
3. Language and Translation Errors
In global markets, translations must be precise. One mistranslated word can mislead or breach local rules.
Use certified medical translators and run translations through quality assurance systems.
4. Lack of Batch and Serial Numbers
This is critical for tracking and recalls. Some companies skip it to save space or costs, but it’s a big mistake.
Ensure batch numbers, manufacturing dates, and serial numbers are clearly displayed and scannable.
5. Outdated Regulatory Knowledge
Labelling regulations change often. Failing to stay up to date can make your labels non-compliant.
Subscribe to updates from the MHRA and international authorities like the FDA and EMA. Regular audits help too.
6. Ignoring Country-Specific Requirements
Each country may have unique requirements around symbols, language, warnings, and layouts.
Always research local labelling laws before exporting or distributing. One label does not fit all markets.
7. Over-Reliance on Automation Without Checks
Automated labelling software is useful, but it’s not foolproof. Software malfunctions or data mapping errors can introduce risk.
Always include human review as part of your labelling process.
Avoiding labelling pitfalls isn’t just about following rules; it’s about protecting your brand, your business, and the people who rely on your products.
At Expert labels, we specialise in helping medical and pharmaceutical organisations create fully compliant, accurate, and accessible labels. From regulatory advice to label design, proofreading, and translation support, we offer tailored solutions that meet MHRA, EU, and global standards.
Do you need help reviewing your current labels? We make sure your labelling is safe, compliant, and audit-ready.
Useful Links:
MHRA Labelling Guidance (UK):
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/packaging-and-labelling-of-medicines
EMA Labelling Overview (Europe):
WHO Labelling Standards:
https://www.who.int/standards/medicines-quality-assurance/
Last Updated: 10th June 2025
How a Beauty Brand Boosted Shelf Appeal with Bold Label Design
How a Beauty Brand Boosted Shelf Appeal with Bold Label Design
In the competitive world of beauty products, first impressions are everything. With so many brands fighting for attention, standing out on the shelf isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential. One of our clients, an emerging beauty brand, recognised this challenge and transformed its packaging strategy with our help, achieving impressive results.
The Challenge: Standing Out in a Crowded Market
The brand, known for its natural skincare range, had already built a loyal customer base. But in busy retail settings, their products often blended in with similar-looking items. While their minimalist design was elegant, it didn’t grab the attention of new shoppers.
Our Solution: Bold Label Design for Bigger Impact
We worked closely with the brand to completely refresh its packaging. The goal was to create labels that reflected their ethos but also stood out on the shelf. The key changes we introduced included:
- Vibrant Colours: Inspired by nature, the new labels featured bright, bold colours that tied in with the brand’s natural ingredients.
- Clear Typography: We made sure the product details were displayed in a clean, easy-to-read style, so shoppers could quickly find key information.
- Enhanced Finishes: We added glossy and textured elements to give the labels a premium look and feel, making the products more inviting to pick up.
Tailored Solutions from Expert Labels
As label specialists, we provided a full package of services and products to meet the brand’s needs:
- Peel and Reveal Labels: These multi-layered labels allowed the brand to include extra information, directions and full ingredient lists, without cluttering the main design.
- Sustainable Labels: We supported the brand’s eco-friendly mission by supplying biodegradable labels that were durable and attractive.
- Bespoke Design Service: Our design team worked hand-in-hand with the brand to create custom designs that expressed their identity and appealed to their audience.
The Results: Improved Visibility and Sales
After the relaunch, the brand saw a strong increase in customer engagement and sales. Retailers told us that shoppers were picking up and inspecting the products more often, all thanks to the bold new labels. The collaboration not only enhanced the brand’s shelf presence but also strengthened its overall market position.
Conclusion
This case study highlights the real impact that thoughtful label design can have in the beauty industry. By partnering with us, the brand successfully navigated the challenges of a crowded market, proving that smart, strategic packaging is a powerful tool for brand growth and success.
Useful Links:
Biodegradable Labels
Biodegradable Labels
Label Design and Print Software
Label Design and Print Software
Sustainable Labels
Sustainable Labels
Last Updated: 18 May 2025
Choosing the Right Label for High-Temperature Environments
Choosing the Right Label for High-Temperature Environments
In many industries, labels are more than just decoration – they are essential for tracking, safety, and compliance. That’s why label durability and performance matter so much. If a label fades, peels, or wears away too quickly, it can cause confusion, risk, or even lead to costly errors. In this guide, we’ll explain what makes a label durable, what affects performance, and how to choose the right solution for your needs.
Why Label Durability Matters
Durable labels are designed to last longer and withstand harsh conditions. They are used in industries such as:
- Manufacturing
- Warehousing
- Healthcare & Laboratories
- Automotive
- Construction
- Food and Beverage
In these settings, labels must hold up against heat, chemicals, water, abrasion, UV light, and general wear and tear. A label that doesn’t last can lead to lost data, safety risks, or expensive rework.
What Affects Label Performance?
Label performance depends on three key parts:
- Material
- Adhesive
- Print Method
Let’s break it down:
1. Label Material
Different materials offer different levels of durability:
- Paper: Cheap and easy to print, but not good for rough or wet conditions.
- Polyester (PET): Strong and resistant to chemicals, water, and UV – great for indoor and outdoor use.
- Polyimide: Used for extreme heat (up to 300°C), ideal in electronics or manufacturing.
- Vinyl: Flexible and waterproof, good for curved surfaces and long-lasting outdoor use.
- Aluminium Foil: High heat resistance and strong, perfect for engines or metalwork.
2. Adhesive Type
The right adhesive ensures the label sticks properly and stays in place.
- Acrylic Adhesive: Good for general use, with strong resistance to water, UV, and chemicals.
- Rubber-Based Adhesive: Better for sticking to low surface energy material like plastic and rubbers or rough surfaces, but not ideal for high temperatures.
- Silicone Adhesive: Best for high-heat surfaces or oily materials.
3. Print Durability
Even if the label remains attached, the text or image must remain readable. That’s why your print method matters:
- Inkjet or laser printing is quick, efficient and fine for office use, but fades in harsh conditions.
- Thermal transfer printing with resin ribbon is the best for durable, scratch- and heat-resistant prints.
- Pre-printed labels from a supplier is a viable option for long-term use, especially when large volumes or specific designs are required.
Tips for Improving Label Durability
- Test labels in your actual environment before full use.
- Clean the surface before applying labels for better bonding.
- Use lamination or protective coatings for extra resistance.
- Choose labels rated for your industry standards, especially in food, healthcare, or industrial settings.
Conclusion
Label durability isn’t just about making things look neat – it’s about reliability, safety, and performance. Whether you’re labelling wires in a factory or vials in a lab, the right label makes all the difference.
If you’re not sure which labels to choose, get in touch with Richard or Rebecca at ExpertLabels Ltd on Tel:01359 271 111 or alternatively email info@expertlabels.co.uk for the right combination of material, adhesive, and print to suit your exact needs.
Useful Links
Protect Your Brand with Simple Security Features
Protect Your Brand with Simple Security Features
Counterfeited products are a big problem – estimated to be worth £2 trillion worldwide.
Whilst there are obvious targets for counterfeiting – like sports apparel and luxury goods – there are some less likely but more potentially damaging counterfeit goods.
Automotive and aerospace spare parts, electronic components and of course pharmaceuticals are perhaps the most potentially damaging and easily counterfeited.
Potential risks for Spare Parts, Electronic Components and Pharmaceuticals
Sub standard automotive and aerospace spare parts are easy to inject into a complex and wide supply chain and have obvious fatal consequences if they fail.
In June 2020, a US Air Force pilot died when his ejection seat malfunctioned. After the subsequent investigation, the US Airforce Research Lab had suspicions about 10 potentially counterfeit and faulty electronic chips. Quality standards were substandard and the workmanship shoddy, which may have lead to the ejector seat’s parachute failing to deploy.
In military applications – there are strategic consequences if counterfeit parts make their way into a supply chain – as Hezbollah found when their radios and pagers were compromised in 2024.
With defence systems needing to last decades, much longer than cars or consumer electronics, the need for good quality components is all the more critical. Combine that with military applications being used in life or death situations – the use of low quality fake components could be fatal.
How Can We Prevent Counterfeit Products?
Genuine products need to be protected by:
- a hard-to-copy means of identification – obvious and ‘covert’ features to prove authenticity,
- a way of preventing identification being transferred from one item to another and
- inspection to ensure the items are genuine.
This needs to be maintained throughout the supply-chain.
Holographic Security Labels
Holographic labels are difficult to copy and expensive to make. They give your products authenticity at a glance and fake products can be seen easily.
Holographic labels have high set up costs which discourages counterfeiters, but if you’re producing tens of thousands of items, the cost per item becomes an acceptable investment.
Holographic labels tend to be made by genuine manufacturers who have bought expensive equipment to make the holograms.
You can buy designs from a range of ready made images or add your logo or a custom design to make them unique to your brand.
These labels don’t just provide security—they also make your product look high-quality and professional.
Holographic labels take several weeks to make and come on sheets, with a minimum order quantity of several thousand labels – depending on label size.
Verify Genuine Products with QR Code Labels
QR codes enable traceability throughout the supply chain. They are easy to create and print. They’re also easy to scan so it’s easy for the supply chain to track items along the chain.
An example could be aerospace parts. The engineer fitting the part can scan the code with their phone and check it’s genuine. That scan also records that it’s been fitted, taking the part out of the supply chain.
End users can scan the code with their phone to check if the product is genuine.
You can also use QR codes to share extra details, such as where the product was made or special care instructions. This builds trust with your customers.
Tamper-Evident Labels and Tape
Tamper-evident labels and tapes show if a product has been opened or tampered with.
This is a critical part in maintaining integrity with your supply chain.
In an industrial supply chain, checking the security tape or labels are a way of confirming the box hasn’t been opened and the contents changed. It can form part of compliance testing in the manufacturing process.
Tamper-evident labels mean that labels can’t be transferred from one item to a counterfeit item.
Tapes and seals can be custom branded so they show your own logo when you peel off the tape or simply use standard text and design.
Whilst using tamper-evident tapes and labels is common place for medicines and pharmaceuticals, it’s very effective in automotive and aerospace, where counterfeit products can also cost lives.
Hidden (Covert) Security Label Features
There are dozens of security features you can use to prove your labels (and products) are authentic.
You can add covert, hidden security features, like:
UV ink – print that is invisible until an ultra-violet light is shined on them. A quick, easy and non-destructive way to prove authenticity.
Motion Rastering – This feature is a simple, inexpensive way to authenticate your items. The label is read by a reader that you wave over the label in order to read the hidden text. No fancy electronics needed.
Add nano and micro-print, to your products. These features can’t be seen easily by counterfeiters and can’t be printed by them either but can be checked by experts to prove the product is authentic and see if the supply chain has been compromised.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is a modern way to track your products. It creates a secure digital record that can’t be changed. It records of every step, from the factory to the end user. They can be public or private.
This is particularly useful for safety critical items like aircraft parts and automotive where trust is very important and consequences quite high.
A block chain register for your supply chain would cost tens or thousands of pounds to create but would provide trust and safety to customers.
Where the set-up costs can be shared over large numbers of supply chain participants, the investment could work out quite low compared to the benefits.
Why Supply Chain Security Is Important
Different industries have different priorities in terms of supply chain security.
High value branded products need counterfeit protection to prevent financial losses.
Pharmaceuticals need to protect against reputation damage from counterfeit drugs potentially killing people. The same motives apply to aviation and automotive – counterfeit components could be catastrophic.
Defence industries need to know that components aren’t supplied by hostile countries, who can sabotage military efforts or gather sensitive intelligence. Additionally, maintaining sanctions means material traceability is important.
Ready to Protect Your Brand?
We can help you with holographic labels, QR codes, and other security solutions to keep your brand safe. Use our expertise to protect your products, build trust with your customers, and stay ahead of counterfeiters.
Useful Links
How Durable Are Sustainable Labels?
How Durable Are Sustainable Labels?
As more businesses focus on eco-friendly practices, many are turning to sustainable labels to reduce their environmental impact. However, a common concern is whether these labels are as durable as traditional ones. In this article, we look at how well sustainable labels hold up in different conditions and compare them to traditional alternatives.
What Are Sustainable Labels?
Sustainable labels are made from environmentally friendly materials like recycled paper, biodegradable plastics (from natural sources like cornstarch or sugarcane), or plant-based films such as cellulose or polylactic acid (PLA).
These materials reduce the use of oil based products, while still performing well in everyday use. Designed with the planet in mind, they often use glues and coatings that are less harmful, ensuring that both the label and the packaging contribute to more eco-friendly practices without compromising on quality.
Are Sustainable Labels Durable?
The short answer is kind of.
It depends on how you define sustainable. If sustainable means made without petroleum based ingredients then sustainable labels have come a long way and can now match the durability of traditional labels. Some key factors influencing label durability include water resistance, heat exposure, and adhesive strength.
- Water Resistance: Labels made from plant-based films or recyclable plastics can handle moisture, making them suitable for products frequently exposed to water like drinks or cosmetics.
- Heat Resistance: Sustainable materials, like bio-based plastics, are specifically engineered to withstand high temperatures, preventing labels from peeling or breaking down when exposed to moderate heat.
- Adhesive Strength: Modern adhesives ensure that labels stick securely to products throughout their use. At the same time, we can supply you with water soluble and peelable adhesives to allow for easy removal when needed, without leaving residue, supporting recycling and reducing waste.
The Question of Plastic Pollution
Unfortunately these plant based plastics are still harmful to the environment, as they are not biodegradable.
The answer is to make them as easy to recycle as possible.
Traditional adhesives make it difficult to remove labels to be recycled.
The solution here is washable glue. Using washable adhesive labels, recyclers are able to separate labels from other materials (glass or cardboard).
With washable adhesive, you can now recycle the packaging more easily, you can separate the labels and possibly recycle them.
Durable Alternatives to Plastic Labels
Paper, by its nature, soaks up water. That means it’s not a good material for wet or moist situations.
One of our material suppliers has been working on a solution to this. Using their own paper mill, they have been developing paper labels which are more durable but at the same time, both sustainable and biodegradable.
Whilst these materials aren’t perfect for every situation – it would be worth testing.
A word of caution – these materials are more expensive than standard papers or even plastics and you would need to buy a large minimum quantity – running to hundreds of thousands of labels I would imagine.
Industry Examples
Many industries, such as food and cosmetics, have successfully switched to sustainable labels without sacrificing durability. For example, bio-based labels are used on chilled food items where exposure to water and low temperatures is common, and they perform just as well as conventional labels.
Conclusion
Sustainable labels are not only great for the environment but also highly durable. With advancements in materials and adhesives, businesses no longer need to worry about the performance of eco-friendly labels. They can withstand heat, moisture, and wear, making them a reliable choice for various industries.
But remember, sustainable labels aren’t the same as biodegradable. Biodegradable labels aren’t as durable. Sustainably made labels are.
Interested in testing them for your own products?
Contact us today to request a free sample and test the strength of our sustainable labels first hand!
