What's the worst-case scenario for a manufacturer? You produce a marvel of engineering, a high-tech machine or device, but the brand/model label you stick on it falls off after a month of the product reaching the customer, or becomes unreadable due to spilled oil.
The label is your product's identity. Don't let your identity be erased.
Today, we're examining the performance of metallized roll labels (silvermat), not in a lab environment, but under real industrial conditions—where there's heat, oil, and chemicals.
1. Heat Test: Electronics and Engine Parts
Ordinary plastic labels (Opaque PP) begin to loosen and lift at the edges (shrink) after a certain temperature. Paper labels, on the other hand, dry out and fall off when exposed to heat.
Metallized Label Performance:
Thanks to their specially coated Polypropylene structure, Silvermat labels exhibit much higher temperature resistance. The heating of electronic circuit boards (PCBs), boiler internal components, or the body temperature of a running engine will not deform this label. Its adhesive "bakes" and adheres even more firmly to the surface as it gets hotter.
2. Oil and Dirt Test: Automotive Sector
In an industrial environment, hands are greasy, and machines can leak oil. A paper-based label instantly absorbs oil and "bleeds" (the stain comes through from the back to the front).
Metallized Label Performance:
Its surface has a matte metallic coating and is non-porous. When engine oil, grease, or industrial dirt gets on it, it won't absorb. Wiping it with a cloth will leave the label clean as new. This is why it's the only option for those seeking industrial labels.
3. Chemical Test: The Secret to Non-Erasable Print
This is the most critical point. The label material might be durable, but is the TEXT on it durable?
Alcohol, thinner, or solvent-based cleaners used during cleaning instantly erase standard prints (Wax Ribbon). Your solid black barcode suddenly disappears.
Solution: Resin Ribbon Technology
When printing on metallized labels, Resin Ribbon must always be used. Resin melts with heat during printing and penetrates (fuses with) the plastic surface of the label. This ensures the print won't come off even if you wipe it with thinner. Don't overlook this detail when purchasing metallized labels.
Durability Comparison Table
Let's clarify which label withstands which conditions:
| Label Type | Water/Moisture | Heat | Chemicals/Oil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coated Label (Paper) | ❌ Not Durable | ❌ Falls Off | ❌ Absorbs and Degrades |
| Opaque PP (Plastic) | ✅ Durable | ⚠️ Medium | ⚠️ Medium (Can be wiped) |
| Metallized (Silvermat) | ✅✅ Excellent | ✅✅ High | ✅✅ Excellent (with Resin) |
Conclusion: Don't Take Risks, Arm Yourselves
If your product is going to live in an industrial area, under the hood, or near chemicals, the label is not where you should cut corners. Heat-resistant metallized labels protect your brand's reputation even in the toughest conditions.
Tell us the temperature your product will be exposed to or the environmental conditions, and we'll recommend the most suitable adhesive type (Acrylic/Hotmelt) and ribbon for you. For technical support, contact us.
