Discover why polyimide labels might not be your best choice

Heat-resistant labels are essential in various industrial applications where high temperatures are a constant challenge, and  polyimide labels have traditionally been favored for their durability and chemical resistance. But they’re not the only option, and in some cases, because of their high cost, they’re not the best option. Polyester labels, aluminum labels, polyamide (nylon) labels, and polycarbonate labels all perform well in high-heat conditions.

What is polyimide and why is it used for labels?

Polyimide is a high-performance polymer known for its exceptional heat resistance, durability, and chemical stability, making it a go-to material for labels in extreme conditions. These labels can endure temperatures up to 932°F (500°C) without degrading, which is crucial in applications like automotive manufacturing, food and beverage production, and oil and gas processing, where exposure to high heat is routine. 

The downside of polyimide labels

Polyimide labels handle heat and chemical exposure well, but there are drawbacks, the most notable being their high cost. This expense stems from the complex manufacturing process of polyimide films. The raw materials used in polyimide production are also more expensive than those for other label materials, which contributes to the overall higher cost. Additionally, polyimide labels are a specialty product that often isn’t produced in cost-lowering, large-scale runs.

Why a polyimide alternative might be the right choice for you

Given the high cost of polyimide, it makes sense to explore whether there’s a better alternative for your use case. If your specific application doesn’t require the extreme heat resistance or chemical stability that polyimide provides, for example, odds are you would be better off with a lower-cost alternative. Polyester, aluminum, polyamide (nylon), and polycarbonate all offer varying levels of durability and heat tolerance but come at a lower cost, making them more budget-friendly for applications that don’t demand the highest performance levels. By choosing an alternative to polyimide labels, companies can optimize performance while significantly reducing expenses. 

Polyester as an alternative for polyimide labels

Polyester labels are a versatile and cost-effective alternative to polyimide labels. They offer several benefits, making them a popular choice for many applications:

• Durability and resistance: Polyester labels provide excellent durability, tear resistance, chemical resistance, and moisture resistance, similar to polyimide labels.
• Temperature tolerance: These labels can withstand high temperatures up to 500°F (260°C) for short durations, making them suitable for many high-heat environments.
• Abrasion resistance: Polyester labels offer very high abrasion resistance and can last over three years in outdoor conditions.
• Variety of finishes: Polyester labels are available in various finishes, including matte, gloss, clear, and silver, providing flexibility in aesthetic choices.
• Cost effectiveness: Particularly for larger volumes, polyester labels are more cost-effective than polyimide labels, making them an economical choice for many businesses.

Aluminum as an alternative for polyimide labels

Aluminum labels are known for their extreme durability and are well-suited for harsh environments:

• Durability and resistance: Aluminum labels are extremely durable and resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and high temperatures.
• High-temperature tolerance: These labels can withstand temperatures up to 800°F (427°C), making them ideal for use in the most demanding industrial settings.
• Industrial and outdoor use: Aluminum label durability and resistance make them suitable for harsh industrial environments and outdoor applications.
• Aesthetic appeal: Aluminum labels provide a premium, metallic look and feel, adding a touch of quality to any product.
• Cost comparison: While more expensive than polyester, aluminum labels are still less costly than polyimide labels, offering a balance between cost and performance.

Polyamide (nylon) as an alternative for polyimide labels

Polyamide labels, commonly known as nylon labels, are another alternative offering good performance at a moderate cost:

• Durability and resistance: Nylon labels offer good durability and chemical resistance.
• Temperature tolerance: These labels can withstand temperatures up to 250°F (121°C), making them suitable for a range of industrial applications.
• Cost effectiveness: Nylon labels are less expensive than polyimide labels but more costly than polyester, providing a mid-range option for those looking for a balance of performance and cost.
• Versatility: Suitable for many industrial and outdoor applications, nylon labels provide a reliable solution where moderate heat resistance is required.

Polycarbonate as an alternative for polyimide labels

Polycarbonate labels are known for their excellent impact resistance and are a strong contender in environments requiring durable labeling solutions:

• Durability and resistance: Polycarbonate labels offer excellent impact resistance, temperature resistance up to 280°F (138°C), and chemical resistance.
• Cost comparison: They are more expensive than polyester labels but less costly than polyimide, making them a good middle-ground option.
• Application suitability: Suitable for various industrial applications, polycarbonate labels are ideal where both durability and heat resistance are necessary.

Are there situations where polyimide labels are the best solution?

It’s important to note, that while polyimide labels alternatives are the best cost-effective solution for many situations, there are circumstances in which the higher performance of polyimide labels is non-negotiable. 

This is particularly true in industries such as aerospace, semiconductor, and advanced manufacturing. In the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs), for instance, polyimide labels can withstand the intense heat of solder reflow processes, where temperatures can reach up to 500°F (260°C) or higher. In such settings, other materials would fail, compromising the readability of barcodes or tracking information, which could lead to production delays, quality issues, or safety risks.

Similarly, in aerospace applications, components may be subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations, from the freezing cold of high altitudes to the heat generated by engines or exhaust systems. Polyimide labels maintain their legibility and structural integrity throughout these cycles, ensuring that essential information, like serial numbers or maintenance records, remains visible for safety inspections and compliance. 

In these specialized environments, the upfront investment in polyimide is justified by its ability to provide consistent, reliable performance where other materials would fall short. The peace of mind that comes from knowing labels will remain secure and legible in even the harshest conditions makes polyimide labels the best choice for applications where extreme precision, safety, and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable.

Having a label expert at hand makes the decision easier

Choosing between polyimide labels and their alternatives is a nuanced decision — one better made with an industry-savvy label expert at your side. And facestock isn’t the only factor when choosing labels for process-specific applications.

You’ll need to consider adhesive, printability, size and shape, thickness, chemical resistance, temperature resistance, sterility, cleanroom compatibility and so many other factors. The reality is, it’s just not possible to find an off-the-shelf label that meets every single one of your operational criteria. True optimization call for a custom-engineered label, and that means finding the right labeling partner. 

That’s where we come in. CleanMark’s team of industry-experienced labeling experts investigates your specific use case, designs a custom-engineered label that fits every aspect of your requirements, and then we produce your labels faster than anyone else in the labeling industry. 

Schedule a consultation today, and we’ll help you decide if polyimide or another label material is the right choice for you.