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Why “Halogen Free” Matters: Ribbons for Green Electronics
If you are supplying labels to the electronics industry (Smartphones, Laptops, PCBs), you have likely seen the requirement: “HF” (Halogen Free).
Many suppliers ignore this, thinking it only applies to the plastic casing or the circuit board. They are wrong.
It applies to everything—including the ink on the barcode label.
If your thermal transfer ribbon contains Halogens (specifically Chlorine or Bromine), your labels could be rejected by major brands like Apple, Dell, or Sony.
At Only Imaging, we formulate specific Halogen Free Resins to ensure you stay compliant.
What are Halogens and Why are they Bad?
Halogens (Chlorine, Bromine, Fluorine, Iodine) are often used as flame retardants in standard inks. However, when electronics are recycled (burned) at the end of their life, these halogens release Dioxins—highly toxic, cancer-causing smoke.
Furthermore, Halogens can be corrosive. Over time, a label containing high levels of Chlorine can actually corrode the delicate gold contacts on a PCB board.
The Standard: IEC 61249-2-21
To be certified “Halogen Free,” a ribbon must meet these strict limits:
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Chlorine (Cl): < 900 ppm
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Bromine (Br): < 900 ppm
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Total Halogens: < 1500 ppm
Only Imaging’s HF Series
We don’t just “guess.” We test. Our SP-HF (Specialty Resin – Halogen Free) series is rigorously tested by SGS. It provides the same extreme durability and heat resistance as standard resin, but with a green chemical profile.
Conclusion: Don’t Get Your Shipment Rejected
Global electronics supply chains are becoming stricter every year. Don’t let a $5 ribbon roll jeopardize a million-dollar contract.
Switch to certified Halogen Free consumables today.
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.
