Thermal Transfer

Near-edge thermal transfer printing

Near-edge printers offer some real benefits for thermal transfer printing, including higher speeds, reduced set-up time, and longer printhead life. These benefits come from the approach taken to transfer the ink to the substrate. Cameron explains that in standard, flat-head printers, the printhead is stationary and a pressure roller is used to control contact between the ribbon and substrate. The printhead in near-edge printers "floats," and is adjusted to control the point of contact for ink transfer. Near-edge ribbons can be either wax or resin based.