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Label Types & Applications

Definition of a label A piece of paper, card, metal, plastic or other material that can be attached to an object to identify it, give instructions for care or use, validate ownership, or state a destination. Label Types Labels can be used in the following ways: To seal packages or bags, register vehicles, number boats, or even to cover bolt holes in aircraft. They can be used to address packages or letters. Labels can be made to change colour when subjected to heat/cold or certain chemicals, or made to become luminous to indicate exits in aircraft. They are used to identify baggage, and to label everyday goods such as jam or peanut butter, orange juice etc. Labels may also be used as a decoration to enhance an object -- children's fun stickers or vehicle stripes are both good examples. In order to do all of the above, labels can be cut to almost any shape or size as required, or supplied continuous with sprocket holes for dot matrix printers, and in A4 sheets for use in Inkjet or laser printers, or as most commonly used, in rolls/singles. Applications for labels are only limited by man's imagination. Adhesives These are a subtle part of the label 'sandwich' (refer to FAQ's diagram), but play a very important part of the label usage. The choice of the 'wrong' adhesive can end up as a disaster, because labels could fall off a product, or 'stick' too hard and therefore damage the product. However, adhesives can be made to withstand the most extreme conditions from sticking underwater, adhere to frozen goods, withstand boiling water, or simply wash off with water from plastics for the recycling process. The choice of the adhesive is just as important as the label stock itself. Research & Development Since the invention of pressure sensitive adhesive paper in 1935, the constant quest for better substrates and adhesives continues unabated. New and better adhesives are constantly being developed and the search for the 'perfect' all-round adhesive continues around the world. New pressure sensitive materials, whether synthetic or natural, are being developed to meet the harshest demand that industry can make, while there is constant striving within the label industry to further improve the normal 'day-to-day' product. For further information please click for our Glossary of Terms and full explanations of a pressure sensitive label, OR email your questions to info@labels-stickers-tags.com.au. Back to Top