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Labels
Labels (also called pressure sensitive materials) are multi-ply materials consisting of a “sandwich” of
various combinations of face sheets (printable stock), adhesives, and removable protective backings
(liners). The multiple layers can result in thick, difficult-to-handle materials.
Labels are among the most difficult print materials for any printer to reliably feed and print. The heat,
pressure, and paper paths required by laser printers create a particularly difficult environment for
printing labels. Temperatures near 225°C (437°F) [temperatures vary between printers; check the
section for your specific printer] and pressures to 25 psi can be necessary for the fusing process.
Heavy label stock can absorb heat, which in turn affects toner adhesion and print quality and causes
problems such as delamination.
Note: To prevent labels peeling off or delaminating, make sure the release strength of the
labels you use is sufficient to withstand the temperature and pressure extremes
generated during printing.
Label Characteristics
The materials used to construct labels have a wide range of properties that can affect printing. In
addition to volatile components in adhesive, volatiles are also in some label materials. We
recommend that volatile emissions from the label, up to 160°C (320°F), should be a minimal amount.
These low boiling point volatiles can produce emissions when they are heated in the fuser and they
can potentially produce vapors which can cause damage to the printer. Preprinted inks can also
cause printer contamination, and may be present on one or both sides of the label sheet.
Observing recommended label design guidelines can minimize contamination as well as prevent
other critical problems, such as labels peeling off and causing jams in the printer, or the label or
adhesive melting if the sheet stops in the fuser during a paper jam.
Review label designs with a converter or vendor who is knowledgeable about labels and laser printer
characteristics to ensure you use labels suitable for your application.
Note: Before purchasing large quantities of labels, make sure you extensively test the
labels with your printer.