A label is not a “one size fits all” product. The label materials combined with the physical construction of the label determine the durability, cost and fitness for the label’s intended purpose. DASKO offers a wide range of materials and adhesives to match the durability and environmental requirements of your application. For added protection, we offer our “DASKO-Shield” lamination process. DASKO labels are constructed using the above “label sandwich” process:
- Release Liner: The release liner is the carrier that a label is adhered to prior to use. Release liners come in different materials with paper being most common. Film liners are often used for clean room environments. The release liner is coated with silicone for easy release of the labels from the rolls or sheets. Additional silicone is used for applications that require a lighter release such as automatic label applicators.
- Adhesive: There are many adhesives available for permanent, temporary, removable and repositionable label applications. When selecting an adhesive it is important to know the temperature at which the label will be applied as well as the service temperature range once it has been applied. Most adhesives provide an initial bond and require a 24-48 hour bonding period to reach full strength. Rubber adhesives generally have higher initial tack but contain a high water content that will yellow and dry over time. Acrylic based adhesives may take a little longer to reach full bonding strength but will not dry or lose their bond over time.
- Base Stock: There are many base stocks available and they vary widely in their ability to withstand environmental conditions such as temperature, moisture, dirt, dust, solvents, chemicals, abrasion and general deterioration.
- Print Image: The print image can be applied using many different technologies such as thermal transfer, hot stamp, laser, ink jet and ion deposition. These methods each have their advantages and disadvantages relative to print quality, durabilty, and cost.
- DASKO-Shield: DASKO-Shield is a lamination process where a clear laminate is applied to the printed base stock prior to die cutting the label. The resulting laminated label provides a clean look, offers greater protection to the print image stat environments or durable applications and is washable for dirty environments or extended use applications.