High-temperature labels need to remain attached and legible through a defined heat exposure. A short production step and continuous service at an elevated temperature are different applications. Start with a temperature profile rather than a general material name.
Information Needed for Selection
- Peak temperature, time at temperature and number of heating cycles.
- Whether the label is applied before, during or after the hot process.
- Container or component material, curvature and surface coating.
- Contact with steam, cleaning agents, solvents or abrasion in addition to heat.
- Required service life, text size and any barcode or variable-data requirements.
Material and Print Review
PET and polyimide are possible material routes for selected applications. The suitable grade, adhesive and printed construction must be checked against the exposure. One rating cannot be applied to every product within either material family.
For identification labels, consider the readable life of the printed information as well as the face stock. If you print variable data yourself, specify the printer and ribbon so that print durability can be included in the trial.
Validate the Actual Process
Test representative labels on the actual surface through the expected heating and cooling cycle. Check adhesion, shrinkage or distortion, colour changes and code readability after the exposure. For regulated or safety-critical applications, supply your required test method and acceptance criteria for review.
Do Laboratory Limits Equal Label Ratings?
No. A laboratory oven limit describes equipment capability. The finished label rating belongs to a specific construction under specified conditions. See our label laboratory and discuss the applicable test plan.
Discuss Your Label Project
Send your product and container details, label size, quantity and intended use. If the material or finish is not yet decided, describe the result you need so we can review the options and a sample plan.
Explore: Performance options · PET labels · Polyimide labels