Wax ribbons
Find the right ribbon solution
The most sustainable wax ribbon for paper substrates
For Flat Head printers
Printing substrates
Certifications
- California Proposition 65
- Compostable ink EN 13432:2000-12
- EU Food Contact 1935/2004/EC
- Halogens IEC 61249-2-21:2003
- REACH / SVHC 1907/2006/EC
- RoHS/Heavy metals 2011/65/EU
- US Food Contact FDA

What is a wax ribbon?
A wax ribbon is a ribbon coated with an ink made with wax-based components. Wax ribbons are the most popular thermal transfer ribbon for thermal transfer printers. Wax-based inks have a good adhesion on almost all types of substrates and are suitable for printing barcodes and other types of labels.
Wax ribbons will deliver a great print quality on the following label materials:
- Rough vellum papers
- Matte coated papers
- Glossy coated papers
What makes a wax ribbon different from wax-resin and resin ribbon?
- Print durability: It’s a softer ink more vulnerable to scratching and smudging. For applications requiring a more durable ink, it will be appropriate to use wax-resin or resin ribbons.
- Printer compatibility: Wax ribbons are working on Flat-head printers, whereas Wax-resin and Resin ribbons can also run on Near-Edge printers.
- Printhead heat setting: Wax inks have a lower melting point temperature compared to Wax-resin and Resin ribbons. They impose less stress to the printhead.
- Label compatibility: Wax ribbons are suitable for uncoated or matte coated surfaces. For synthetic labels, Wax-resin and Resin ribbons are more suitable.
Wax ribbons are also available in a variety of colors to suit a multitude of applications.
What is a Wax Ribbon?
A wax ribbon is a type of thermal transfer ribbon commonly used for printing on paper substrates. Coated with wax-based ink, it provides high-quality prints and is ideal for barcodes, labels, and short-term printing applications.
Why Choose Armor-IIMAK Ribbons?
ARMOR-IIMAK ‘s ribbons are designed for short-term labeling applications. Here’s why they stand out:
- Affordable Performance: ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons offer a great balance of cost and quality, making them an ideal choice for traditional thermal transfer applications.
- High Print Quality: These ribbons produce clear, sharp prints on a wide range of paper materials, ensuring readability for barcodes and labels.
- Smudge Resistance: ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons provide excellent resistance to smudging, ensuring that your labels stay legible even in high-traffic environments.
- Versatile Compatibility: Designed for use with flat-head thermal transfer printers, these ribbons are compatible with a variety of uncoated and matte-coated paper labels, offering versatility for many applications.
- Eco-Friendly: ARMOR-IIMAK uses a solvent-free manufacturing process called SolFree®, for several ribbons of the range making these ribbons more sustainable compared to other products.
- Reduced Printhead Stress: Due to their lower melting point, ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons reduce stress on the printhead, helping to extend the life of your printer.
Ideal Label Materials for ARMOR-IIMAK Ribbons
- Rough vellum papers
- Matte-coated papers
- Glossy-coated papers
Typical Uses of Thermal Transfer Products
ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons are perfect for a variety of labeling and identification tasks, including:
- Storage and shipping labels
- Crate and distribution labels
- Tags and bags for parts/products
- Signage and logos
- Logistics and barcode labels
How to Choose the Right ARMOR-IIMAK Ribbon
- • Standard Option: Offers better smudge resistance and works well with glossy and rough paper types.
Example: AWR 8. - • High-Performance Option: Provides increased durability and resistance, perfect for industrial labeling and long-lasting prints.
Example: AWX FH. - • Eco-Conscious Option: An environmentally friendly choice made with PET film to reduce plastic usage.
Example: AWR XL
Why Choose ARMOR-IIMAK Wax Ribbons for Everyday Labeling?
- Print Durability: ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons are softer and more prone to scratching. For more durable prints, wax-resin or resin ribbons are a better choice.
- Printer Compatibility: ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons are made for flat-head printers, while wax-resin and resin ribbons can also be used on near-edge printers.
- Printhead Heat Settings: ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons operate at a lower melting point, reducing stress on the printhead.
- Label Compatibility: ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons work best for uncoated or matte-coated surfaces. For synthetic labels, wax-resin and resin ribbons are more durable.
Printer Compatibility
What Types of Printers Are Compatible with ARMOR-IIMAK Ribbons?
ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons are designed for flat-head thermal transfer printers, ensuring smooth performance and high-quality prints.
Do ARMOR-IIMAK Ribbons Require Specific Heat Settings?
Yes, Armor ribbons work efficiently with lower heat settings, which reduces stress on your printhead and extends the life of your printer.
Can ARMOR-IIMAK Ribbons Be Used on All Types of Labels?
Armor ribbons work perfectly with uncoated and matte-coated paper labels, making them versatile for various labeling applications.
Why Choose ARMOR-IIMAK Ribbons for My Printer?
ARMOR-IIMAK ribbons provide clear, crisp prints while reducing wear on your printer, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
