Domed label
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Domed labels are printed pressure-sensitive labels that have a thick, dome-shaped clear polyurethane coating.
Uses
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Domed labels are used in many applications. Equipment manufacturers apply them as permanent markings for their products as they are durable, and their three-dimensional appearance catches the eye.
Domed labels are much more permanent than others and do not show wear; the clear polyurethane substance, even after curing (hardening), is self-healing. Minor scratches or cuts heal themselves, and the label looks new once again.
Several clothing manufacturers use domed labels as disposable items by affixing them to in-store hangers. The hangers are shaped in such a way that the customer will touch the label first when picking up the article of clothing for inspection. This initial tactile feel adds to the perceived value of the garment[citation needed]. Costume jewelers have also used domed labels for their products.
An example of a domed label application for tactile purposes can be seen in the photo. At the bottom left, there is an example used to label the gearshift knob of an automobile.
Production
[edit]The coating can be applied in liquid form in many different ways, ranging from manual application via syringe to optically-guided, automated dispensing equipment. Once applied, the polyurethane liquid flows to the edge of the label and stops (due to the surface tension of the liquid), hardening into a clear dome.
- The first layer is the label material. The material can be any print-industry recognized label material (from paper to many forms of plastic).
- The second layer is the ink. The label can be multiple colors, photo-quality graphics, or simple text. The ink is applied using screen or digital print technology.
- After the ink has cured (dried), the labels are laser- or die-cut and the waste material between labels removed from the press sheet.
- The liquid polyurethane material is then applied to the labels on the press sheet and left to cure.
References
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