
Wire Label Printer Accessories

Labels and tags are important tools for communicating important information about electrical panels and equipment. Safety labels are used to warn operators about specific hazards. These labels generally include a word of warning, a symbol and a safety message. They are brightly colored and use red, orange and yellow to attract attention. Identification labels are used on electrical panels and wiring to clarify the types of electrical signals and connections that are being used. They are also used to identify components, power ratings and other safety and work-related information. Regulatory requirements set specific guidelines for color, sizing and information for labels.
Labels must be easy to read and able to withstand the environment. In some applications, there may be exposure to harsh temperatures, outdoor weather and sources of corrosion. It is also important to consider the surface area and any contours that may be present in the location for labeling. This could impact the type of material or adhesive used for the label. For some applications, adhesive-backed polyester or vinyl labels will provide the best balance of cost and durability. These materials are pliable enough to fit the curve of a surface and come in a variety of sizes and colors. Additional choices are available to fully customize labeling including the material, thickness, size and type of adhesive.
Phoenix Contact has developed a complete system for planning, marking and printing labels for industrial terminals, cables, conductors and equipment. Their MARKING system includes planning and marking software (PROJECT) which is coordinated with associated hardware. One interface is used which enables the direct import of data from electronics planning. Two types of printers are available. Thermal transfer printers and high-speed laser marker printers with UV LED technology. Both printers work with a standardized, user-friendly control menu and produce durable markings that have been tested to satisfy all international norms and standards.
Products
Wire labeling best practices
Identify the types of power on the wire.
If a large amount of voltage or current exists on the wire, make sure that the wire label shows that. Sometimes this is done by using a different color label on the wire or the wire itself is a different color, which is a form of identification and labeling.
The label should show where the wire is coming from and where it is going to.
By providing the origin and destination of the wire, operators interacting with that wire can more easily identify where it is going and how it might be routed. It also allows the operator to more easily eliminate that wire as a trouble spot when trying to troubleshoot electrical issues.
The writing on the label should be printed as large as possible to make it easy for the operator to read.
Use the correct type of labels.
Too often electrician simply use a piece of white electrical tape wrapped around the wire with some writing on it. While this is better than nothing, it is not the proper labeling method. The use of electrical wire labels should be used. Heat shrink labels are best as once they are attached and shrunk, they rarely move. Label printers allow the text to be very clear and legible.
Use the same labeling convention on every label.
This allows for continuity in the labels and allows the operator to more predictably read and interpret the information. Make sure labels are always oriented in such a way that they can be read without moving or manipulating the wire in any way, as this can lead to wires potentially coming loose and potentially causing dangerous situations.