Overcoat protects labels from the elements
By Erik Cagle
There is no mystery concerning the need for and uses of laminated labels. A laminated label provides protection from the elements. Not using one can produce less-than-favorable results.
Allen Conway, president of Discount Labels, New Albany, Ind., said he feels that there has been steady growth for all labels and foresees continued success, particularly for laminated labels. "With laminated labels, you have a better chance of having repeat business through the years," he said.
Lamination is an added coat of protection for labels. A label that comes into contact with substances that could erode it or deteriorate it needs lamination. Sub-stances that can damage a label include
• Grease and grime.
• Dirt and mud.
• Harsh or toxic chemicals.
• Natural elements.
Simply put, if a label's readability and scanability are required for a long period of time, lamination is the best route to take.
"If [the label] is something you're going to spray cleaner on, some solvents will take the ink right off," said Nancy Klaar, marketing manager for Label Art, Wilton, N.H. "It's just added protection that makes the surface more durable. It could be an added value to something you had been using to extend the life of the label," she said.
Self-laminating labels permit the end-user to write information on the label or tag prior to the lamination process. According to Jim Thiel of Badger Tag & Label, Random Lake, Wis., this works well with an application such as check authorization cards. After the card is signed, the lamination takes place when the liner is pulled across the face portion of the card, allowing the clear polyester to adhere to the card. The signature is underneath the protective coating, preventing smears or smudges.
- Companies:
- Discount Labels
- Label Art
- Places:
- New Albany, Ind.
- Wilton, N.H.