Termotransfer

Termotransfer, also known as thermal transfer printing, is a digital printing method that uses heat to transfer an image from a ribbon onto a substrate. The process involves a thermal printhead, a ribbon, and the material being printed on. The thermal printhead contains a series of tiny heating elements. When activated, these elements heat up specific points on the ribbon, melting the ink or dye coating. The melted material is then pressed onto the substrate, adhering to it and forming the printed image.

There are two primary types of thermal transfer printing: thermal transfer and direct thermal. Thermal transfer printing uses a ribbon to transfer the image, while direct thermal printing uses heat-sensitive paper that darkens when heated by the printhead. The thermal transfer method is more versatile and durable, suitable for a wider range of materials like paper, synthetic films, and textiles. It is commonly used for producing durable labels, barcodes, receipts, and identification cards. The durability of thermal transfer prints makes them ideal for applications where resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and UV light is required. The process allows for high-resolution printing and can reproduce intricate details and various colors depending on the ribbon used.