Thermal transfer date coding is a marking method that enables variable data such as Production Date (PD), Expiry Date (ED), lot numbers, and serial numbers to be printed permanently and legibly on product packaging. In the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and cleaning industries, date coding ribbons and thermal transfer coding devices are widely used to ensure traceability in compliance with legal regulations.
In this method, the thermal printhead melts the ink on the ribbon using heat and transfers it onto the packaging surface. This process ensures sharp, durable PD–ED prints that are resistant to smudging and fading. Compared to alternatives such as hot foil and continuous inkjet, thermal transfer date coding stands out with higher print quality and lower consumable costs.
Which Ribbon Is Used for PD and ED Printing?
The ribbon used for direct date printing on packaging should be selected according to the packaging material and the environmental conditions it will be exposed to.
Paper-based packaging (carton boxes, labeled paper surfaces):
For short- to medium-shelf-life products in dry environments, wax or wax/resin date coding ribbons can be preferred.
Plastic films and flexible packaging (PP, PE, OPP, laminated surfaces):
For PD–ED printing exposed to cold chain conditions, friction, or moisture risk, wax/resin or high-durability resin date coding ribbons are recommended.
Harsh environments (frozen food, chemical, medical):
For deep-freeze applications, chemical exposure, or intense humidity, resin-based date coding ribbons designed for synthetic packaging provide long-lasting, highly scratch- and smear-resistant prints.
Many manufacturers use near-edge compatible ribbons—also referred to as hot-foil or date coding ribbons—specifically formulated for TTO (Thermal Transfer Overprinter) printers. These ribbons provide compatible solution sets with thermal transfer coding devices integrated into packaging lines, such as Savema, Markem-Imaje, Domino, and Videojet systems.
Advantages of Thermal Transfer Date Coding
Thermal transfer date coding provides critical advantages for both manufacturers and end users in PD–ED printing applications.
Clear and permanent date codes:
Since the ribbon ink is fixed onto the packaging surface with heat and pressure, date and lot information show high resistance to abrasion, smudging, and fading.
High printing speed and line efficiency:
Modern thermal transfer coding devices operate in synchronization with packaging lines, enabling real-time changes of date, time, and batch numbers at high speeds.
Wide material compatibility:
The ability to print date codes on paper, cardboard, plastic film, aluminum laminates, and labeled surfaces with a single technology supports stock and equipment standardization.
Low total cost of ownership:
With the correct ribbon–packaging match, printhead life is extended, consumable usage is optimized, and waste caused by reprints is reduced.
Key Considerations for Direct PD–ED Printing on Packaging
When applying thermal transfer date coding directly onto packaging surfaces, the following technical points should be considered:
Surface energy and coating:
On very glossy or slippery surfaces, selecting a date coding ribbon with a higher resin content improves ink adhesion to the substrate.
Operating temperature and environment:
In cold-fill, frozen food, or high-temperature filling lines, ribbon formulation and print temperature must be selected according to environmental conditions.
Legal requirements and readability:
For food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products, PD–ED, shelf life, and batch information must be printed in compliance with regulations, ensuring proper character height, contrast, and readability.
Thermal Transfer Date Coding Solutions with DGS
In date coding applications, selecting the right ribbon depends on your production line speed, packaging structure, and target shelf life. DGS Printing Technologies supplies wax, wax/resin, and resin ribbon alternatives suitable for direct PD–ED printing on packaging, sourced from global manufacturers such as ITW Thermal Films and Ricoh, available from stock.
For your thermal transfer date coding project—whether you require ribbon matching tailored to your packaging structure, TTO printer selection, or line integration—you can contact the expert team via dgs.com.tr/en/ to receive a customized solution for your business.
