Choosing the Right Label for High-Temperature Environments

High-temperature-resistant barcode labels applied to glowing hot metal billets in an industrial setting.

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.