Thermal Transfer Ribbons from Signet
High-Performance Printing for Labels, Packaging & Flexible Films
For over 50 years, Signet has supplied the packaging industry with reliable, precision-marking solutions. Our lines of thermal transfer ribbons support flat head and near-edge printers used in labeling, date coding, batch marking, and more.
Whether you're printing on paper labels, coding high-speed flexible film, or specialty substrates, Signet thermal ribbons offer clear, durable results you can count on.
What Are Thermal Transfer Ribbons?
Thermal transfer ribbons are rolls of ink-coated film used in thermal printers to create long-lasting, high-resolution prints. When heat is applied by the printhead, ink transfers from the ribbon to the label material—forming a smudge-resistant mark ideal for barcodes, lot numbers, expiration dates, and product IDs.
Thermal transfer printing is widely used in manufacturing, logistics, food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics —anywhere clean, reliable coding is critical.
Compared to direct thermal printing, thermal transfer ribbons:
- Enable longer label life
- Offer better resistance to abrasion, moisture, and chemicals
- Are compatible with a wider range of materials
Types of Thermal Transfer Ribbons
Choose the Right Formulation for Your Application
Different packaging and labeling applications require different levels of durability, clarity, and material compatibility. Signet offers a full range of ribbon types to meet those needs:
Printhead Compatibility: Flat Head vs. Near Edge
Matching the correct ribbon type to your printhead is essential for optimal print quality and equipment longevity.
Flat Head Printers
Flat head printers are common in industrial and desktop label printing systems. The
printhead makes direct, flat contact with the label surface.
- Compatible Signet Ribbon: SMD009 – Resin-enhanced wax ribbon for flat head printers
- Printer brands supported: Zebra, Datamax, SATO, Intermec, ELTRON, TEC, and more
- Ideal for: Standard labeling applications using paper or synthetic labels
Near Edge Printers
Near-edge printers use an angled printhead, applying heat along the edge for fast, precise marking on flexible films.
- Compatible Signet Ribbons:
SMD12 – Standard wax-resin ribbon for near-edge systems
SMD24 – Premium wax-resin ribbon for high-speed, high-durability applications - Printer brands supported: Videojet, Markem-Imaje, Easyprint, Domino, Bellmark, Open Date
- Ideal for: Flow wrap, pouch packaging, thermoform fill seal, and film substrates
Printhead Maintenance Tips
A well-maintained printer delivers better print quality and extends equipment life.
Best practices include:
- Clean the printhead after each ribbon change or once daily in high-volume settings
- Use approved isopropyl alcohol wipes or cleaning pens
- Watch for fading, voids, or streaks—common signs of residue or abrasion buildup
Need help choosing a cleaning routine? Our support team is happy to advise.
Recommended and Common Uses
| Printer Brand | Ribbon Type | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Zebra | Wax, Wax-Resin, Resin | Shipping labels, inventory, retail |
| SATO | Wax, Wax-Resin, Resin | Product labeling, compliance |
| Videojet | Near-edge wax-resin | High-speed flexible film coding |
| Markem-Imaje | Near-edge wax-resin | Date and lot coding, flow wrap packaging |
| Domino | Near-edge wax-resin | Fast-form film, food-grade packaging |
| Industry | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| Food Packaging | Expiration dates, lot numbers, weight codes |
| Manufacturing | Product labels, barcodes, tracking codes |
| Pharmaceuticals | Vial labels, blister packs, medical tracking |
| Logistics | Shipping, warehouse, and compliance labeling |
| Cosmetics | Tube fillers, labelers, outer carton coding |
Why Choose Signet?
With over 50 years in marking and coding, Signet combines deep technical knowledge with responsive service. Our thermal transfer ribbon offerings are backed by:
- A wide inventory of in-stock ribbon sizes
- Fast turnaround and responsive quoting
- High-quality, consistent print performance
- Compatibility with major OEM printers and coders
- Personalized support to match your printer, surface, and speed requirements
Whether you're running a carton labeler or a high-speed pouch filler, Signet has the ribbon you can trust to perform.
Not Sure Which Ribbon You Need?
Tell us what printer you're using, what you're printing on, and what kind of information you need to apply. Our team will recommend the right solution—whether it's SMD009 for flat head, SMD12 for standard near edge, or SMD24 for the most demanding applications.