Chris, I introduced this method into the factory about 10 years ago. The first iteration was using die cut myler label stock on a laser printer. It turned out to be very time consuming and you had to print 8 identical (s/n incremented for each) labels at a time. The next step was a thermal transfer printer with Mylar label stock on a roll. This was fast and allowed for one label at a time. Initially we used home grown software on a PC and had several standalone systems around the factory each with an assigned block of serial numbers. We then integrated the system into our Factory Control system computers and had labels printed on demand at the configuration station based on scanned sales order travelers. We have since out sourced our manufacturing so we went back to the standalone PC based system using software from an outfit called Loftware http://www.loftware.com/home.htm <http://www.loftware.com/home.htm> Our system uses completely blank label stock and a various layouts are designed using the drawing features in Loftware. Variables are merged from a database (excel) and printed on the label. Power ratings, model descriptions, agency logos, patent numbers are all pulled from the database and the layouts determine the placement on the label. We even included a couple of smaller sub labels as part of the basic label stock that have serial numbers, models numbers, etc that can be placed in other locations on the product to help out the customer service folks. We have had great success using thermal transfer printers from Zebra Technologies http://www.zebra.com/ <http://www.zebra.com/> . The label stock is a 1.5 mil myler and we have used both matt and gloss finish materials in translucent and white. To meet UL requirements the combination of printer, label stock and ribbon are approved. We have a section in our UL SP volume describing the system. The most difficult thing to do is select a label stock and ribbon combination that will provide an acceptable level of print quality while still meeting the durability requirements of the marking section of the safety standard. All thermal transfer processes use ribbons that are either a wax, resin or combination of both. The wax materials provide the best print quality and are great on paper labels but will not stand up to the solvent wipe test on Myler. The resins are durable and easily pass the wipe test but the quality of the printed image is not as good. There are ribbons that are a ! ! ! ! blend that will give you what you need. The only other consideration is the adhesive on the label. If you are applying the label to a smooth plastic or metal surface there is not much to worry about. If the part is textured you will need a a heavier layer of adhesive to get acceptable adhesion. One of these systems are definitely the way to go. We cut our costs from an average of $0.50 per preprinted label to $0.06 per label with this process. David Clement Motorola Inc. Global Homologation Engineering 20 Cabot Blvd. Mansfield, MA 02048
P: 508-261-4389 F: 508-261-4777 C: 508-725-9689 E: < mailto:dave.clem...@motorola.com <mailto:dave.clem...@motorola.com> > -----Original Message----- From: Chris Wells [mailto:cdwe...@stargate.net] Sent: Saturday, March 10, 2001 2:49 PM To: 'emc-pstc' Cc: Wells, Christopher D Subject: Print on demand labels - UL/CSA approved As a continuation of my last email - "save me from label hell...." I need to do some investigations into better "print on demand" labeling sollutions. Right now about the only "print on demand" we do is the serial number/ date code. The rest of the label is silk screened and includes all the variations within a product. As a result we must have a multitude of different lables with set up charge and lead time issues. i would like to improve that approach What I have seen and would like to do is create a "boiler plate" label for each product or a series of products, that will support "print-on-demand" for all the variables. * The printing ought to be back printed on plastic stock so that the surface affords protection. Perhaps there are other approaches. * It needs to be UL/CSA/??? controled/approved matterials. * It needs to be compatible with industrial temp extremes of -40 to ~ 85C on metal or Poly carb plastic surfaces. Our products are typicaly speced to 60 or 70C. * Most importantly I need a semi turn key system form engineering to production. Not just the label stock and the printer but a data base that will handle the transfer of printing field data from design engineering out to the production floor with an eye on maintaining ISO 9001 and compatibility with our drawing control management system (CMS). Looking for recomendations or feedback (good or bad) on vendors that can help update our approach. Are there some good trade mags on this topic, web sites???? Are there any pitfalls to avoid? Thanks Chris Wells Senior Design Eng. Cutler-hammer well...@ch.etn.com <mailto:well...@ch.etn.com> 412 490 6862
