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Ribbons
Card printer ribbons are essential consumables that transfer color or monochrome images onto PVC cards using heat. Choosing the right ribbon type directly affects print quality, durability, and cost.
🎨 What Are Card Printer Ribbons?
Unlike inkjet or laser printers, PVC card printers use thermal ribbons to print on plastic cards. These ribbons contain panels of color or resin that are activated by heat from the printer’s print head. The ribbon transfers the image or text onto the card surface either directly (Dye Sublimation) or via a film (Reverse Transfer).
🧵 Common Ribbon Types and Codes
| Ribbon | Code Panels Included | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| YMC | Yellow, Magenta, Cyan | Basic full-color printing (no black text or overlay) |
| YMCK | YMC + Black | Full-color with sharp black text or barcodes |
| YMCKO | YMCK + Overlay | Adds a protective clear layer for durability and tamper resistance |
| YMCKOK | YMCKO + Black (back) | Dual-sided cards with black text on reverse |
| Monochrome | Single color (e.g., black, gold) | Text-only or simple designs on pre-printed cards |
Overlay panels ("O") protect the card from abrasion and dye migration, extending its lifespan.
🧪 Ribbon Materials and Durability
- Wax ribbons: Basic, low-cost, suitable for smooth PVC surfaces.
- Wax-resin ribbons: Balanced durability and print quality.
- Resin ribbons: High resistance to chemicals and abrasion, ideal for industrial or outdoor use.
Most ribbons have a shelf life of around 2 years, making them easy to store for future use.
🧠How to Choose the Right Ribbon
- Printing goal: Photo-quality ID? Use YMCKO. Text-only? Monochrome.
- Card type: Smart cards may need retransfer ribbons for uneven surfaces.
- Security needs: Overlay panels or UV ribbons for tamper resistance.
- Printer compatibility: Match ribbon size, core, and coating to your printer model.
For further information or if you do not find the product you are interested please call us at +39 02 36742682 or send an email to support@badgedoc.com