The economy care label ribbon is the entry grade, built for nylon fabric tags, satin ribbon and plastic labels. At 6.4±0.5 micron it is one of the thinner resin ribbons, with print density of 1.3-1.6 and a 2 ips print speed.
Why care labels need a dedicated ribbon
Composition text, wash symbols and sizing on a care label go through washing machines, dry cleaning and irons. Standard ribbons fade after a couple of washes. Care label ribbons use a resin ink layer that bonds into nylon and satin fibres, so the print is still there after washing and pressing.
The manufacturer also notes that it does not stick to fabric, meaning the ink layer will not transfer onto the cloth and stain it. On light coloured tags that matters.
Specifications
- Type: economy care label ribbon
- Ink type: resin
- Origin: domestic
- Colour: black
- Film thickness: 4.5±0.3 micron
- Ribbon thickness: 6.4±0.5 micron
- Print density: 1.3-1.6
- Print speed: 2 ips
- Substrates: nylon, satin, plastic labels
- Printer type: flat-head
Low temperature printing
The manufacturer highlights good low temperature printing on nylon, with solid consistency. Nylon tags dislike heat, and an over-hot printhead scorches the fibre and leaves yellow marks. The ink layer melts at a lower temperature, so transfer completes without damaging the fabric, which is why it suits care labels better than a general purpose resin.
Wash and solvent resistance
Wash resistance and petrol wipe resistance are rated strong, one step below the very strong rating of the standard care label ribbon. Everyday garment washing and normal dry cleaning are covered. If labels face frequent industrial laundering or strong solvents, move up to the standard grade.
Use and storage
Operate and store at -10 to 40 degrees C and 20 to 85 percent relative humidity. Keep unused rolls sealed, dry and out of light. At 2 ips the output rate is slower than a general ribbon, so plan production around that speed rather than assuming 6 ips.
Economy or standard care label
The economy grade is 6.4 micron at 2 ips; the standard grade is 6.5 micron at 2 and 4 ips, with wash and petrol resistance raised from strong to very strong. Everyday garment labels go to the economy grade for cost; higher requirements or higher volume go to the standard grade.
