Avery Dennison Label and Packaging Materials North America has announced that it has received UL 969-recognition for a range of durable goods label constructions validated for use on the Durst Tau 330 digital press. This is part of an ongoing commitment to expand material options for digital printing platforms.

UL 969-recognition offers converters operating Durst Tau 330 presses more opportunities in the durable goods labeling area. With recognized label materials, they can quickly and cost-effectively use their digital assets to increase business in these segments.

Label materials with UL 969-recognition offer converters significant benefits. Converters using previously recognized constructions can simply file for a label adoption when submitting “printed” labels to UL for testing and certification. This can reduce the costs by up to 75%, reduce approval time from approximately 12 to two weeks, and virtually eliminate the risk a label will not meet UL requirements.

As one of four US laboratories certified by UL to conduct standard 969 testing, Avery Dennison lab technicians subjected a selection of label materials to the UL 969 Marking and Labeling Systems test protocol. The materials were printed by the Durst Tau 330 press using its ink system. After testing, 15 label constructions received UL 969 recognition.

“We have had tremendous success in the durable goods and industrial sectors due to the material compatibility of the Tau 330 and durability of our inks,” says Diane Ewanko, business development manager, Avery Dennison Label and Packaging Materials North America. “Converters who specialize in these durables segments can trust the combination of Avery Dennison materials and Durst inks will create a long-lasting construction for many rigorous applications.”

The majority of these newly recognized label materials are offered via the Avery Dennison EXACT service program, which allows converters to order as little as one slit roll that ships within 48 hours. The low minimum order quantity and next-day shipment complements the small run, quick turn capabilities of digital printing.

“We recognize the growth opportunities associated with digital print technology in the durable goods segment and are invested in helping converters take advantage,” says Ewanko. “Avery Dennison has strong relationships with many leading print OEMs, including Durst. Avery Dennison is grateful they share our vision and commitment to expanding this landscape for converters.”

“Our customers value the relationship and upfront work we have done with Avery Dennison,” says Emily Kroll, business director, Label & Specialty Packaging Systems, Durst Image Technology US. “Being able to purchase a digital asset that already comes with a robust portfolio of UL-recognized substrates saves time, money and ultimately allows them to go to the marketplace faster.”