What is Direct Thermal Printable Film?

Direct thermal label films used for multitude of applications like Information labeling (airport baggage tags etc.), manufacturing tracking, weight and price labeling; is one of the specialty films offered by Cosmo Films. In fact, the company is the only BOPP film manufacturer who has been coating films for the direct thermal printing. The film has a proprietary coating which enables image/impression formation upon contact with the print head of the thermal printer.

A protective layer is generally applied to protect the coated surface from mechanical abrasion, climatic factors, chemical products etc. The film thus offers good scuff & water resistance. The film also lends an excellent paper like matte finish and produces a dark image on printing. The film is available in thickness varieties of 50 and 75 microns in single layer structure and 100 microns and above in laminated structures.

The direct thermal printing method generally used for short term indoor use is being extensively used because of its ease of use, low cost and tamper proof nature. Some of the advantages are explained below. Moreover, the film is becoming increasingly popular substrate vis-a-vis paper for this printing type because of its non-tear ability.

Ease of Use: Anyone can print direct thermal labels. Simply place the label stock into your printer and print. There’s no costly equipment to maintain, troubleshoot or fix.

 Lower Cost: Direct thermal printing (DTP) is cost – effective, with a comparable cost of ownership (TCO) to thermal transfer.

Temper proof: With sensitive data imaged directly onto the BOPP DTP film, there are no data-filled ribbons to dispose of. Information is released only upon printing, protecting the privacy and primacy of sensitive information.

Reduced Inventory: Direct thermal printing labels do not use ribbons, inks or toners, allowing companies to order only the label stocks they need for their initiatives. Simplified ordering and product requirements save inventory and label costs – as well as valuable warehouse space.