The challenge of identifying products and keeping an up-to-date record tends to get harder and harder the more you expand on it. Certain problems like longevity, the volume of assets & environmental factors tend to make this task difficult. That’s why, we use logistic solutions like waterproof barcode labels on almost every outdoor product. These labels make it significantly easier to keep track of & record your assets with minimal effort.
So, let’s discuss how to correctly implement barcode labels in an environment with water & moisture.
Barcodes – Definition & How they Work
Barcode is a system of data storage and identification, that stores information in form of binary codes. Barcodes were invented in 1948 in the U.S., they are an excellent form of the asset identification system. A barcode can be easily printed on a sticker and placed firmly on items. They are easy to implement & very cost-effective.
A barcode can store information along single (1-dimensional) or two axes (2-dimensional). A 1D barcode consists of black & white bars, with black representing ‘1’ & white representing ‘0’. A barcode reader scans the code and sends the information to the system where it is converted into readable form. A 2D barcode can store information horizontally & vertically inside a grid. Thus, it can store vastly more data than a 1D barcode.
What is Waterproof Barcode Label made of?
Due to their cost and effectiveness, barcodes have found their use in almost every industry. From food, and manufacturing to healthcare. Meaning that barcode labels often must withstand a variety of environmental conditions depending on their application. One such issue to overcome is water & moisture.
There are several types of waterproof & water-resistant barcode labels made from a variety of materials-
a) Polyester
b) Polypropylene
c) Polyimide
d) Vinyl
All these materials are invulnerable to moisture & water damage. However, there is some functional difference between them. Notice how I mentioned waterproof and water-resistant separately. While in most situations people use these terms as synonyms, when it comes to barcodes & packaging, they are not.
A waterproof label does not allow water or any other liquid to pass through it. They act like a barrier to moisture and water. On the other hand, a water-resistant label absorbs some water while keeping the rest away, and still does not suffer any damage.
Materials like Vinyl, Polyester and are waterproof. However, labels made from materials like Polyimide and Polypropylene are water-resistant. These differences can differentiate their applications.
What are the Applications of Waterproof Barcode Label?
The best application of waterproof barcodes is in open & outside environments. As there is a good chance of encountering moisture and water from rain and other environmental sources. These barcodes are used in situations like-
a) Parks, Hiking Trails, etc.
b) Construction Equipments
c) Vehicle Parts
d) Electricity Generators
e) Gardening Equipment
These are just a few examples of where implementing waterproof barcodes would be effective in outdoor situations. With the correct implementation, you can severely extend the operational life of your barcodes.
Waterproof Barcode Label FAQ:
Q1. What are barcode labels used for?
Ans: Barcodes can help you identify the type & group a product belongs to with a simple scan. Barcode labels are often used to assist a business with important tasks like asset tracking & inventory management.
Q2. What are the most durable barcode labels?
Ans: Vinyl barcode labels are by far the most durable & versatile. They are immune to scratches & smudges; due to their flexible nature, they can stick to uneven surfaces & screws without damaging the label. However, they are also the most expensive type of barcode label.
Q3. What types of labels are waterproof?
Ans: The majority of barcode materials can withstand water damage, but they are all not waterproof. Barcode labels made from materials like Vinyl and Polyester are waterproof.
Q4. Which type of barcode should I use?
Ans: There are several factors that you will have to keep in mind while choosing a barcode for your business. Due to the material properties and cost of barcode materials, they tend to have specialized applications. For example, although vinyl is expensive, it’s flexible & very durable, thus it is preferable for use in manufacturing sectors & construction.
To learn more, read our blog: Barcode: How It Works & Helps Your Business?
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