As more and more businesses prioritise sustainability, reducing waste has become a key concern. But without printing solutions – like Linerless Labelling – that are specifically designed to reduce waste, your business is still likely generating mountains of backing liner that clutters worksites and ends up in landfills.
That’s why many businesses are switching to linerless labels. The market is rapidly expanding because it offers significant benefits to businesses in today’s fast-paced world, offering new ways to increase productivity while preserving the environment.
What are linerless labels?
Standard labels contain a peel-off liner which is then discarded after use. Linerless versions do not have a liner at all. Similar to a roll of tape, they feature a silicone release coating on the top layer and a special adhesive that allows them to peel away from the labels beneath without any waste.
How can a linerless label solution benefit your business?
Implementing a linerless solution in your business can provide many benefits, from faster operations to cost reduction, while supporting sustainability. Here are some reasons to switch to linerless label printing:
- Increase printer uptime: No need for peeling labels or disposing of backing liners. Linerless media rolls contain 50% more labels and require fewer roll changes.
- Print only what you need: Linerless allows variable label length without calibration, minimising waste.
- Achieve sustainability: Reduces disposal costs and supports environmental efforts as no liners need to be disposed.
- Save on transport costs: Linerless label rolls weigh 40% less, reducing shipping costs and CO2 emissions.
- Free up storage space: Up to 50% more labels per roll reduces storage requirements.
- Ensure workplace safety: Linerless labels reduce slip hazards from liner piles accumulating beneath the printer.
Selecting a linerless printing solution
When switching to linerless labels, businesses must ensure they also have the right printers on hand – ensuring perfect compatibility between both technologies is crucial. Businesses should consider these key factors when selecting a printer:
- Print performance: Linerless labels typically require a higher print darkness setting than standard direct thermal labels. The heat generated by the printhead must penetrate the release coating to activate the direct thermal chemistry for a readable and durable image.
- Proper manufacturing: Labels must be precisely manufactured and wound on the core to ensure a proper fit in the printer. The release coating must be cured correctly during manufacturing, and the adhesive chemistry must be compatible with the platen roller to prevent printer feeding issues or jamming.
- Testing & Maintenance: To minimise cleaning, maintenance, and printhead/platen roller replacements, linerless media must be rigorously tested in compatible printers to ensure minimal adhesive buildup, optimal print quality, and smooth label throughput.
Applications
Linerless labels are successfully used across various industries, from food and beverage to pharmaceutical labelling, retail, parcel delivery, and more.
In the manufacturing sector specifically, linerless labels can be used in numerous scenarios, including automotive in-process labelling, materials and asset tracking, order picking and packing, shipping and receiving, direct-to-store delivery, and proof of delivery.
Zebra ZeroLiner Linerless Printing Solution
But not all linerless printing solutions are equal. Zebra’s linerless printers are designed and manufactured to deliver premium print quality and performance when paired with Zebra’s ZeroLiner labels- built together to perform together.
Zebra’s Quantitative Print Analysis (QPA) goes beyond ANSI-grade testing to include a quantitative evaluation of text and blocks, ensuring that everything on the label is clearly readable.
To ensure this, Zebra evaluates the buildup of the release coating on the printhead because excessive accumulation can lead to poor print quality, reduced barcode scanability, and a shorter printhead lifespan. Additionally, Zebra assesses the impact of adhesive on the specially coated platen roller, as different adhesive formulations can cause excessive wear on the roller’s protective coating.
To help businesses achieve their goals with linerless printing, Zebra has certified the following linerless labels:
- ZeroLiner 1000D: Entry-grade, direct thermal paper with permanent adhesive, ideal for standard shipping and logistics applications.
- ZeroLiner 2000D: Phenol-free, high-performance, direct thermal paper with permanent adhesive, suitable for multiple applications.
- ZeroLiner 4500D: Phenol-free, premium direct thermal paper with permanent adhesive, designed for high-volume and challenging printing environments.
Future-proof your labelling with Zebra ZeroLiner
Linerless labelling is becoming increasingly seen as a smart option as businesses continue to improve efficiency and sustainability. Zebra’s ZeroLiner solution stands out by enhancing performance, cutting down on waste, boosting productivity, and providing reliable, high-quality printing. With top-notch technology and thoroughly tested materials, Zebra makes it easy for businesses to switch to a more sustainable and cost-effective labelling solution.
For more information on Zebra’s Zeroliner Linerless printing solutions, visit this link.