Labels
are defined as the symbol of manufacturer reputation. Shrink label is
described as a film label printed on an oriented plastic sheet or tube.
When heat is applied to the label, it conforms to the contour of the
container that it surrounds. They represent a high growth segment in the
product decoration. They tie a knot between product packaging and
decorative labeling. This increases brand identity, through the use of
the containers resembling the products they represent, packaging with
built-in hand grip and measuring cups, and eye catching exotic shapes.
Types
There are two types of shrink labels:
- Shrink Sleeve Labels- A shrink sleeve label
is manufactured from a thin, preprinted thermo-retractable plastic
film, which is formed into a tube and then wound onto a core. The
roll of tubing is then unwound and cut to length. Each cut piece is
then applied to the label to conform to the shape of the item over
which it has been placed.
- Roll-Fed Labels- They are specifically
cost-effective. It provides maximum opacity, whiteness and gloss
coupled with the ability to run at high speed on the hot melt
adhesive.
Materials
The most common material used for shrink labels is PVC. Other materials
are also used, such as polyester, glyco-modified polyester, and oriented
polystyrene. OPS have been made with higher shrink ratios and hence are
selected for making the labels. PVC remains to be the material of choice
because of its lowest cost and numerous sources, both domestically and
off-shore. They come in a wide range of shrink ratios and it has the
widest window of shrink temperature.
Film Thickness
Once the type of film has been determined, thickness is the next
consideration. Generally, shrink labels are made from 40 micron and 50
micron film, with 50 micron being the dominant thickness. There are,
however, labels from 30 micron and 70 micron film. Perhaps the most
important selection factor is what thickness is required for the
application process. Machine manufacturers have certain stiffness
requirements and other processing factors that directly impacts the film
thickness that is used.
Applications
Shrink labels grace cans, bottles and jars, attracting consumers to
products as diverse as baby foods, air fresheners, coffee and shaving
cream. They are used for both automatic and manual applications. From
household supplies, cosmetics, and the food and beverage markets, these
labels have set their place in the spot light. The world of promotional
products has also found a home for shrink labels. The advantage lies in
its ability to be removed from a product once the promotion is complete,
revealing the brands original label underneath.
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