What thermal transfer ribbon should we choose for applications in horticulture? Plant stickers, loop lock labels, stick-ins or bed cards. Where shall one start?
Within the European Union, increasing biosecurity and strengthening protection against pests are key topics. Specifically, this involves the trade and cultivation of plants, vegetables, fruit and wood products. Overall, this means that growers and traders moving horticultural products to and within the EU are obliged to fulfil certain phytosanitary obligations.
Find the Thermal Transfer Ribbon that fits your specific needs.
As of the 14th of December 2019, the Plant Health Regulation requires that most plants and plant products have a plant passport. Particularly, traceability and health of these goods should be ensured. That is why, Plant Passports are obliged to include information such as botanical name, country, registration number and traceability code. Obviously, choosing the right variable print technology is of high importance to ensure this information withstands the exposures of horticulture.
Like other outdoor applications, the printed variable information for horticulture should be robust. Certainly, the information should be weatherproof and able to withstand rough handling. Data in Plant Passports need to withstand conditions, such as:
This is why growers utilise different print methods such as Thermal Transfer, laser or inkjet. Clearly, each with a different performance on durability, speed and output. Therefore, choosing the right technology, combined with substrate and ink, prevents issues like smudging, fading or degrading print. When it comes to technology, Thermal Transfer Printing has proven to be one of the most widely used techniques for its reliable and durable results. Because of this, it has become a safe choice for growers, wholesalers, garden centres and retailers.
In Thermal Transfer printing, selecting the right TTR in combination with the printable material is a crucial step. When looking to generate the most consistent and sufficient print results, first, you need to find the right combination of ribbon, substrate, application and printer settings. Regardless of whether you are looking for variable code print for lumber, seeds, bulbs or plants, there is a perfect combination that fit your needs. But, before choosing a ribbon to go with, consider the following factors:
Since the early ’80s, DNP has developed a broad portfolio of Thermal Transfer Ribbons. Our renowned ribbons are produced according to high Japanese quality standards. Over the years, DNP’s Research has been focusing on the development of new products. As a result, we keep upgrading our TTR portfolio with products for new market needs. To cover the different needs of horticultural printing, DNP offers wax, wax resin and resin ribbons.
Achieving high-quality, durable print results is often a matter of extensive testing. In high-paced operations, tests on production equipment can be a challenge. To accelerate this, we offer to support you in DNP’s in-house laboratory and on-site. Challenge us with your specific need! Naturally, our Thermal Transfer Ribbon experts will support you in finding the optimal answer.
Feel free to contact us anytime for any questions you may have.
