NEWS & EVENTS
Stay Updated with Our Latest Exhibitions and Company Dynamics
Flat Head vs. Near Edge: Why You Can’t Swap These Ribbons
If you are managing a high-volume packaging line, you might wonder: “Can I use my standard wax ribbon on this high-speed TTO printer?”
The short answer is: No.
In the world of thermal transfer printing, there are two distinct technologies: Flat Head and Near Edge (also known as Corner Edge). While they do the same job—printing codes and barcodes—they operate differently. Mixing them up leads to poor print quality, wasted ribbons, and potential printhead damage.
At Only Imaging, we manufacture specialized ribbons for both technologies. Here is the technical breakdown to help you choose the right supply.
1. Flat Head Technology ( The Standard)
What is it?
Flat Head is the traditional technology found in 90% of desktop label printers (like most Zebra, Datamax, or SATO desktop models).
How it works:
The printhead lies flat against the ribbon and label. The heating elements are located in the center of the printhead. The ribbon stays in contact with the label for a longer distance as it passes through the “nip.”
-
Pros: Compatible with a wide range of ribbons (Wax, Wax/Resin, Resin).
-
Cons: Slower print speeds typically capped at 10-14 IPS (Inches Per Second).
2. Near Edge Technology (The Speed Demon)
What is it?
Near Edge technology is designed for speed. It is commonly found in TTO (Thermal Transfer Overprinters) used in flexible packaging for food and pharmaceuticals (machines like Markem-Imaje SmartDate, Videojet DataFlex, or Toshiba TEC).
How it works:
The printhead is angled effectively at 45 degrees. The heating elements are located at the very edge (corner) of the ceramic. The ribbon and label separate instantly after heating.
-
Pros: Incredible speeds (up to 40 IPS or 1000mm/s) and ability to print directly onto flexible film packaging.
-
Cons: Requires specialized “Near Edge” ribbons.
The Critical Difference: “Release Time”
Why can’t you use a standard ribbon on a Near Edge printer? It’s all about the release.
-
Flat Head Ribbons are designed to melt and stay semi-molten for a moment to transfer onto the paper.
-
Near Edge Ribbons must melt and release instantly. If you use a standard wax ribbon on a Videojet TTO, the ink won’t release fast enough, causing faint prints or ribbon snapping.
Comparison Table: At a Glance
Reference this table to match your printer type with the correct Only Imaging ribbon series.
| Feature | Flat Head Printers | Near Edge (TTO) Printers |
| Common Brands | Zebra, Datamax, Honeywell, TSC | Markem-Imaje, Videojet, Domino, Toshiba |
| Printhead Contact | Flat contact area | Angled (45°), Edge contact |
| Ribbon Release | Slow release | Instant release |
| Max Speed | ~12-14 IPS | ~40 IPS (High Speed) |
| Ribbon Type Needed | Standard Wax, Wax/Resin, Resin | TTO / Near Edge Wax-Resin |
| Only Imaging Series | N809 / Standard Series | NET (Near Edge Technology) Series |
Do You Need High-Speed Ribbons?
If your production line uses TTO printers for coding expiration dates or barcodes on flow-wrappers, you need a ribbon that can keep up.
Only Imaging’s Near Edge Ribbons are formulated with a specific release layer that ensures:
-
Crisp Codes: Even at 40 IPS.
-
Printhead Protection: Advanced back-coating to reduce friction on the angled head.
-
Cost Savings: A drop-in replacement for expensive OEM branded ribbons (like Markem or Videojet consumables).
Conclusion
Don’t let the wrong ribbon bottle-neck your high-speed packaging line.
Whether you run a Zebra desktop or a Markem TTO, Only Imaging has the specific formulation you need. We can match any OEM specification with our 2-day production guarantee.
ONLY IMAGING is a leading supplier of labels, printing equipment and associate consumables, including TTR products in various widths and lengths. Please take the opportunity to learn more about our range of high-quality thermal transfer ribbons and explore our other products for any further questions you may have click Here.
