5 tips for better solvent resistant labelling
What you need to consider to choose the right durable label.
Solvent resistant labelling can be tricky as there are many factors to consider. Choosing the right labels will protect the value of your samples and ensure there are no issues with traceability through your processes.
When you look for a solvent resistant label solution, what things do you need to consider to ensure you make the right decision for your business?
1. Understand what resistance your label will need
What will your Cold & Cryogenic labels, Hazard and Warning labels, Labware ID or Autoclave and Sterilisation labels be exposed to?
- Hot and Cold temperatures
- Data smudging and fading
- Alcohol and water
- Detergent
- Chemicals
- Solvents
- Handling and abrasion
2. Know what temperatures your label will have to resist
Whilst you may consider solvent resistance as the primary importance, also consider “other” factors such as exposure to environmental conditions like ultraviolet rays, extreme temperature fluctuations, frequent cleaning as well as handling.
CILS solvent resistant labels can withstand the following temperatures:
- Cold temperatures laboratory freezers -20°C
- Ultra-low temperature laboratory freezers and dry ice transportation -80°C
- Liquid nitrogen (cryogenic storage) and deep freeze thaw temperatures -196°C
- High temperature for steam sterilisation +130°C
3. Consider what application or surface your label is being applied to
Typical laboratory applications, such as tubes and vials, slides, well plates, reagent kits, medical device identification and general labware are all constructed of different materials and therefore have very different surfaces which can often be challenging for labels to stick or remain stuck to.
CILS solvent and ultra-solvent resistant label range has been designed with a permanent adhesive that has been tested and perfected over the past 30 years to provide superior bonding on a variety of surfaces, including glass, polypropylene and most hard-to-stick-to laboratory surfaces.
4. Know how the label intends to be used
Knowing the life cycle of your label up-front is critical so that you can choose the correct label. Do you require your label to be permanent, removable after a while or will you require some evidence of tampering if there is an attempted removal of the label?
5. Know what printing solutions are available
The unique CILS computer printable surface coating allows variable data to be printed on the labels in minutes, straight from an existing PC and Laser or Thermal Transfer printer (using the correct CILS printer ribbons). The benefits of using your existing laser printer or thermal transfer printer means no capital outlay, and gives you an element of control over how many labels you use and how frequently you need to print them.
CILS can also pre-print solvent resistant labels, ready for you to apply your variable data using your own PC and printer – an efficient and convenient hi-tech 'print-and-apply' solvent resistant labelling solution.
Most common data printed onto labels:
- Samples IDs
- Barcodes
- Patient details
- QR codes
- Speciment details
The benefits of CILS solvent and ultra-solvent resistant label range:
- Unique CILS printable coatings provide ultimate solvent resistance without secondary lacquers or laminates.
- Printable straight from your PC and standard laser or thermal transfer printer.
- Different options of adhesives for permanent labelling.
- Suitable on all surfaces, including smooth, textured, glass, powder-coated, cast metal, curved, surfaces, etc.
- Protect the value of your samples and ensure there are no issues with traceability.
- Labels made to any size, shape and design to match your specific requirements and with no tooling charges.
To find out more about our solvent resistant label range and what we can do to help you. Fill our our quick contact form, send us an email enquiries@cils-international.com or call +44 (0)1903 219000.