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How to choose the right adhesive for wrap around labels?

by michael•

As a supplier of wrap around labels, I understand the critical role that choosing the right adhesive plays in the success of your labeling projects. Wrap around labels are used in a wide range of industries, from food and beverage to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, and each application has its unique requirements. In this blog post, I’ll share some insights on how to choose the right adhesive for wrap around labels, based on my years of experience in the industry. Wrap Around Labels

Understanding the Basics of Adhesives

Before diving into the selection process, it’s important to understand the basic types of adhesives used for wrap around labels. There are three main categories: pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs), heat-activated adhesives, and solvent-based adhesives.

  • Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs): These are the most commonly used adhesives for wrap around labels. PSAs bond to surfaces when pressure is applied, without the need for heat or solvents. They offer excellent adhesion to a variety of substrates, including paper, plastic, glass, and metal. PSAs are available in different formulations, such as permanent, removable, and repositionable, depending on the application.
  • Heat-Activated Adhesives: These adhesives require heat to activate the bonding process. They are typically used for applications where a strong, permanent bond is required, such as in the packaging of heavy or sharp-edged products. Heat-activated adhesives can be applied using a variety of methods, including hot melt, cold seal, and thermal transfer.
  • Solvent-Based Adhesives: These adhesives use solvents to dissolve the adhesive and create a bond. They are commonly used for applications where a high level of adhesion is required, such as in the labeling of automotive parts and electronic devices. Solvent-based adhesives can be applied using a variety of methods, including spraying, brushing, and rolling.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Adhesive

When choosing an adhesive for wrap around labels, there are several factors to consider, including the substrate, the application environment, the label design, and the desired level of adhesion.

  • Substrate: The substrate is the surface to which the label will be applied. Different substrates have different surface energies, which can affect the adhesion of the label. For example, smooth surfaces, such as glass and plastic, require a different type of adhesive than rough surfaces, such as paper and cardboard. It’s important to choose an adhesive that is compatible with the substrate to ensure a strong, long-lasting bond.
  • Application Environment: The application environment can also affect the performance of the adhesive. For example, labels that are exposed to high temperatures, humidity, or chemicals may require a different type of adhesive than labels that are used in a dry, cool environment. It’s important to consider the application environment when choosing an adhesive to ensure that it will perform well under the conditions in which it will be used.
  • Label Design: The label design can also affect the choice of adhesive. For example, labels with a large surface area or complex shapes may require a different type of adhesive than labels with a small surface area or simple shapes. It’s important to choose an adhesive that is compatible with the label design to ensure that it will adhere properly and not lift or peel over time.
  • Desired Level of Adhesion: The desired level of adhesion is another important factor to consider when choosing an adhesive. For example, labels that need to be removed easily, such as price tags or promotional labels, may require a removable adhesive. On the other hand, labels that need to be permanent, such as product labels or warning labels, may require a permanent adhesive. It’s important to choose an adhesive that provides the desired level of adhesion for the application.

Types of Adhesive for Different Applications

Based on the factors discussed above, here are some recommendations for the types of adhesives that are suitable for different applications:

  • Food and Beverage Industry: In the food and beverage industry, it’s important to choose an adhesive that is safe for direct contact with food. Pressure-sensitive adhesives that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are commonly used for this application. These adhesives are typically made from natural or synthetic rubber and are designed to provide a strong, long-lasting bond to a variety of substrates, including glass, plastic, and metal.
  • Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry: In the cosmetics and personal care industry, it’s important to choose an adhesive that is compatible with the product and the packaging. Pressure-sensitive adhesives that are designed for use on plastics and glass are commonly used for this application. These adhesives are typically made from acrylic or silicone and are designed to provide a clear, invisible bond that does not affect the appearance of the product.
  • Pharmaceutical Industry: In the pharmaceutical industry, it’s important to choose an adhesive that is safe for use on medical devices and packaging. Pressure-sensitive adhesives that are approved by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) are commonly used for this application. These adhesives are typically made from acrylic or silicone and are designed to provide a strong, long-lasting bond to a variety of substrates, including glass, plastic, and metal.
  • Automotive and Industrial Applications: In the automotive and industrial applications, it’s important to choose an adhesive that can withstand high temperatures, chemicals, and mechanical stress. Heat-activated adhesives and solvent-based adhesives are commonly used for this application. These adhesives are typically made from epoxy, polyurethane, or silicone and are designed to provide a strong, permanent bond to a variety of substrates, including metal, plastic, and glass.

Testing the Adhesive

Before using an adhesive for a large-scale labeling project, it’s important to test the adhesive on a small sample of the substrate to ensure that it provides the desired level of adhesion and does not cause any damage to the substrate. Here are some steps to follow when testing the adhesive:

  • Prepare the Substrate: Clean the substrate thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or other contaminants. Make sure the substrate is dry before applying the label.
  • Apply the Label: Apply the label to the substrate using the recommended application method. Make sure the label is centered and aligned properly.
  • Apply Pressure: Apply pressure to the label using a roller or a squeegee to ensure that the label is firmly bonded to the substrate.
  • Test the Adhesion: After the label has been applied, wait for the recommended drying time. Then, try to peel the label off the substrate. If the label peels off easily, the adhesive may not be strong enough. If the label tears or leaves residue on the substrate, the adhesive may be too strong.

Conclusion

Adhesive Labels Choosing the right adhesive for wrap around labels is a critical step in the labeling process. By considering the substrate, the application environment, the label design, and the desired level of adhesion, you can choose an adhesive that provides a strong, long-lasting bond and meets the specific requirements of your application. If you have any questions or need further assistance in choosing the right adhesive for your wrap around labels, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you find the best solution for your labeling needs.

References

  • ASTM International. (2021). Standard Test Methods for Pressure-Sensitive Tapes. ASTM D3330/D3330M-21.
  • Finat. (2021). Technical Handbook. 11th Edition.
  • TAPPI. (2021). TAPPI Test Methods. TAPPI T560 om-19.

TML Packaging Co., Ltd.
TML Packaging Co., Ltd. is well-known as one of the leading wrap around labels manufacturers and suppliers in China. Please feel free to buy high quality wrap around labels at competitive price from our factory. Contact us for more details.
Address: Room 423, Building 5, Xixi First Building, Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province
E-mail: sales@T-M-L.com
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