Labels; Label Characteristics; Printing On Labels; Duplexing Paper Labels - Lexmark 25C0010 - X 500n Color Laser Manual

Labels

Labels (also called pressure-sensitive materials) are multi-ply materials consisting of a "sandwich" of various
combinations of face sheets (printable stock), adhesives, and removable protective backings (liners). The multiple
layers can result in thick, difficult-to-handle materials.
Labels are among the most difficult print materials for any printer to reliably feed and print. The heat, pressure, and
paper paths required by laser printers create a particularly difficult environment for printing labels. Temperatures
near 225°C (437°F) [temperatures vary between printers; check the section for your specific printer] and pressures to
25 psi can be necessary for the fusing process. Heavy label stock can absorb heat, which in turn affects toner adhesion
and print quality and causes problems such as delamination.
Note: To prevent labels peeling off or delaminating, make sure the release strength of the labels you use is sufficient
to withstand the temperature and pressure extremes generated during printing.

Label characteristics

The materials used to construct labels have a wide range of properties that can affect printing. In addition to volatile
components in adhesive, volatiles are also in some label materials. We recommend that volatile emissions from the
label, up to 160°C (320°F), should be a minimal amount. These low boiling point volatiles can produce emissions
when they are heated in the fuser and they can potentially produce vapors which can cause damage to the printer.
Preprinted inks can also cause printer contamination, and may be present on one or both sides of the label sheet.
Observing recommended label design guidelines can minimize contamination as well as prevent other critical
problems, such as labels peeling off and causing jams in the printer, or the label or adhesive melting if the sheet stops
in the fuser during a paper jam.
Review label designs with a converter or vendor who is knowledgeable about labels and laser printer characteristics
to ensure you use labels suitable for your application.
Note: Before purchasing large quantities of labels, make sure you extensively test the labels with your printer.

Printing on labels

Use full label sheets only. Partial sheets (with areas exposed by missing labels) can cause labels to peel off during
printing, resulting in a paper jam. Partial sheets can also contaminate your printer and cartridge with adhesive and
can void the printer and cartridge service warranties.
Do not feed labels through the printer more than once. Doing so may result in adhesive contamination to the cartridge
and other components.
Depending on your printer model and the number of labels you print, printing labels may require special printer
maintenance. For specific maintenance information, see the documentation that came with your printer.
For more information about printing labels, locate your printer in the "Printer specifications" chapter.

Duplexing paper labels

Due to the special construction of labels, they are not typically duplexed. However, if certain design, construction,
and usage guidelines are followed, you can print on both sides of the label sheet successfully.
Labels
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