Lexmark Optra S 1620 User's Guide (7.1 MB) - Page 151

Using Your Printer Using Print Materials Polyester Labels Polyester labels are less heat sensitive than vinyl labels but are also non-absorbing. Liners for polyester labels can be thinner, but requirements for topcoats and printer maintenance are similar to those for vinyl labels. Topcoats Topcoats for non-paper labels are generally water based or solvent based. Care should be taken to avoid topcoats containing chemicals that emit hazardous fumes when heated or put under pressure. Topcoats affect the print quality and adhesion of toner to the label (fuse grade). To prevent fuser damage, topcoats must be able to withstand temperatures up to 212°C (414°F) and pressure up to 25 psi for one second. Water-based topcoats tend to be higher in electrical conductivity than solvent-based topcoats. When using some water-based topcoats with heavy liners, the fuse grade (how well the toner adheres to the page) may fall below acceptable levels. Print quality may degrade with heavier liners. Using a lighter liner may reduce the appearance of splatter. Print quality with some water-based topcoats may not be acceptable for all applications. Solvent-based topcoats tend to be lower in electrical conductivity than water-based topcoats. When using some solvent-based topcoats with heavy liners, fuse grade may fall within acceptable levels. Print quality may degrade with heavier liners. Using a lighter liner may reduce the appearance of splatter. Print quality with some solvent-based topcoats may not be acceptable for all applications. Perforations If the liner is perforated, make sure that no adhesive accumulates on the top or back of the label sheet. The perforation line should stop 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) from the edge of the sheet to prevent jams and tearing of the sheet within the printer path. Perforations Using Print Materials 135