Hot stamping is a premium labelling technique. It’s used for custom plastic bottles in branding-focused industries. As competition grows, standing out on the shelf is vital and hot stamping can help you do that.
Hot stamping applies coloured foil to plastic using heat and pressure. It gives a sleek metallic finish. It’s perfect for high-end brands wanting to elevate their packaging. Hot stamping is better than other labelling methods. It gives a visual and tactile experience. This can shape consumer perception and strengthen your brand.
In this article, we will give you detailed introduction on how hot stamping label made on custom plastic bottles? Investing in techniques like hot stamping will set you up for success in a crowded market. It will also show your customers you care about quality, design, and detail.
Table of Contents
I. The Hot Stamping Process on Plastic Bottles
A. Preparing the plastic bottle
Make sure the plastic bottle is clean and free of contaminants. This is crucial for label or coating adhesion. Some manufacturers, like Amcor, use plasma treatment. It boosts adhesion and improves label durability by 30%. Properly treating the bottle surface will improve your packaging results.
B. Design and creation of the hot stamping die
The hot stamping die is made to match the label design. Manufacturers like Universal Engraving, Inc. use CAD (computer-aided design) for precision. They can achieve tolerances of ±0.0005 inches. So, the die aligns perfectly with the design for perfect stamping.
C. Setting up the hot stamping machine
Adjust the temperature, pressure and dwell time according to the material and design. Kurz machines can stamp cylindrical items, like bottles, at 60 meters per minute. Align it, then test the design. It must transfer clearly and evenly before full production.
D. The stamping process
Place the foil between the die and the bottle.
The die presses the foil onto the bottle.
Heat activates the foil’s adhesive.
Pressure ensures the foil sticks to the bottle.
The die lifts, the design is on the bottle.
This is quick and efficient and gives a durable and professional finish on the bottle.
E. Cooling and quality check
After bottling the products cool then get quality checked. Automated vision systems like Cognex are used in this stage. They can inspect up to 1,200 bottles per minute and with 99.9% accuracy. This allows for quick defect detection. Only top-quality bottles will continue in production.
II. Materials Used in Hot Stamping Labels
A. Types of foils
Metallic foils give products a sleek, high-end finish and shine and luxury. Brands like Absolut Vodka use them to look premium. Pigment foils have bold, bright colors. They grab attention, as on Gatorade’s sports drink bottles. Holographic foils create a striking 3D effect. Brands like Urban Decay use them in cosmetics packaging to stand out on shelves.
B. Compatibility with different plastic materials
Hot stamping works with many types of plastics like PET, HDPE and PVC. You need to adjust temperature and pressure according to the material. Some plastics need more heat to bond. Others need less pressure to avoid damage. Always match your settings to the plastic for best results.
C. Choosing the right foil for your plastic bottle
When choosing a foil for your plastic bottle, consider three things. The bottle’s material, the desired look, and the product’s environment. The right foil not only enhances the look but also the durability of your product. Also, consider the finish, matte or glossy. It can affect how consumers perceive your product and how it looks on the shelf.
III. Design Considerations for Hot-stamped Labels
Limitations and capabilities of hot stamping
Hot stamping adds metallic finishes and bold colors to products. It makes designs stand out. But it struggles with intricate details like gradients or photo-realistic images. Brands like Perrier use hot stamping’s strengths. It creates simple, minimalist designs that look great despite its limits.
If you are looking for a hot stamping machine supplier, you can contact us at LeelinePack. We have different types of hot stamping machines. Whether you are working on jewelry stamping or leather stamping, we have specialized machines to help you grow your business.
Best practices for designing hot stamped labels
When designing hot stamped labels bold and simple designs are key to clarity and impact. Avoid details smaller than 0.5mm as they may not print clearly. Consider the bottle shape – curved surfaces can distort small or intricate elements. Focus on readability and adjust the design to the packaging.
Colors and effects
Modern hot stamping offers many colour options and effects so brands can achieve a high end look. For example, Chanel uses this on their perfume labels. Subtle color changes make the product look elegant. Brands can use metallic finishes, gradients, and matte effects. This can create a unique, eye-catching look on the shelf.
IV. Hot Stamping Labels on Plastic Bottles Benefits
Durability and longevity
Hot stamped labels are designed to last even in tough environments. For example Evian say their labels remain intact and readable after being in water and ice for a long time. Ideal for products that must endure harsh conditions. They must not lose their branding or key information.
Visual appeal
Hot stamping gives a product a luxurious, eye-catching finish. It makes it more desirable. A study by Package InSight found that metallic labels make products look 2.5 times more premium. It helps brands stand out and adds value for consumers. It’s an easy and effective way to improve packaging.
Eco-friendly
Hot stamping is an eco-friendly alternative to adhesive labels, generates less waste. For example, the eco-friendly brand Method switched to hot stamping. This cut their label waste by 40%. It has greatly affected their environmental footprint. It shows that small changes in production can make a big difference.
Conclusion
Hot stamping is a quick and versatile way to customise plastic bottles. Heat and pressure transfer metallic foil onto the surface. This creates bright, durable designs. Results in a high end finish that makes your packaging stand out. Brands can use this to create premium labels that last and grab attention on shelf.
Different machines have different operating theories. To label your plastic bottles, find a suitable machine. At LeelinePack, our team and products can help. Contact us now.