Thermal transfer overprinting. Try saying that three times fast. It is a term that many people in the coding and labeling world are familiar with, but how much do you truly know about TTO? Here’s what Chicago Coding Systems knows about it, and why we love it so much.
What is it?
For those who are new to the term thermal transfer overprinting, or TTO, it might help to first understand what that long phrase really means. TTO is a printing product ideal for flexible film packaging applications, often used for packaging food and drink products. TTO is not limited, however, by ever-changing coding requirements, regulatory demands and number of characters used. How is this possible?
Through the use of digital printing technology, additional code content and more lines for needed information such as a date and time, are made possible. Another plus? These TTO’s eliminate the wait for heating time in comparison to the use of a hot stamp technology, a thermal transfer overprinter, however, takes only 60 seconds or less after powering on to reach the optimal temperature. Long story short: TTO’s ultimately bring more flexibility and efficiency to the workplace.
How does it work?
It’s simple! thermal transfer overprinters use a thermal printhead and ribbon to apply a code onto a flexible label or film product. The TTO uses contact coding technology, meaning it is attached directly to the packaging machine or labeling system you are currently using.
If you want to see a TTO in action, follow this link to our YouTube channel!
Why Choose a TTO?
Along with some of the benefits previously mentioned, it is worth noting that a TTO is capable of working with almost all flexible packaging products. The TTO can be run from slow to high speeds using anything from a small, simple code to large messages. As they are free to program, TTO’s offer a lower cost of printing various unique messages or codes. The technology behind a TTO was designed to use a minimal amount of ribbon, creating a cost effective solution. The printing is flexible, high-quality, works in real-time, and has a higher uptime than many other printing options.
By now, you probably have the gist of why we are big fans of thermal transfer overprinting here at Chicago Coding, and you might be asking where you can find a TTO. You are in luck! We work with large manufacturers such as Zebra, Sato, and FlexPackPRO who distribute top-of-the-line products.
Still interested in learning more? Give us a call (630) 377-4664!