When it comes to labeling industrial machinery, tools, or outdoor equipment, choosing the right heavy duty equipment label is only half the job. Even the most rugged label can fail if not applied correctly. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the proper steps and key tips to make sure your labels stick—and stay.
Before applying any label, the surface must be clean, dry, and smooth. Industrial environments often involve dust, oil, or moisture, which can compromise adhesion.
Best practices:
✔️Clean the surface using isopropyl alcohol or a mild solvent to remove dirt, grease, or debris.
✔️Let the surface dry completely before application.
✔️Avoid applying labels to rusty, peeling, or heavily textured surfaces unless the label is designed for it.
Heavy-duty adhesives perform best within specific temperature ranges. If applied too cold or too hot, the adhesive may not bond properly.
Recommended:
✔️Apply labels between 10°C to 38°C (50°F to 100°F).
✔️For extreme conditions (e.g. outdoor or oilfield), use labels tested to withstand -40°C to +125°C after bonding.
✔️Allow 24 hours for full adhesive cure time, especially on metal or low-energy plastic surfaces.
To activate pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA), apply firm and even pressure across the entire label.
Pro tip:
Use a squeegee, roller, or your hand (with gloves) to smooth the label from the center outward, eliminating air bubbles and ensuring edge-to-edge contact.
Your skin can transfer oils or contaminants that weaken the adhesive.
Always:
✔️Hold the label by its edges.
✔️Peel the backing slowly and avoid bending or stretching the material.
✔️If using large-format labels, peel and apply gradually in sections.
Different surfaces require different adhesive properties.
For example:
✔️Powder-coated metal or low-surface-energy plastics like polyethylene may need specially formulated adhesives.
✔️Painted or anodized surfaces generally allow better bonding, but testing is still recommended.
If you’re unsure, request test samples to try the label material before ordering.
Where your equipment operates affects label performance.
Ask yourself:
✔️Will the label face direct sunlight? Use UV-resistant materials and inks.
✔️Is it exposed to water, oil, or fuel? Choose waterproof and chemical-resistant finishes.
✔️Will it be scraped, handled, or cleaned frequently? Consider a protective laminate or film over the print.
In harsh industrial environments, label edges can begin to lift due to friction, fluid exposure, or heat cycling.
Optional:
✔️Apply an edge-sealing compound or laminate over high-stress labels.
✔️Use rivets or protective plates for extra mechanical hold, especially on outdoor metal equipment.
Heavy-duty equipment labels are often used for safety, traceability, or compliance. Always test on a small area before rolling out large-scale application, especially for:
✔️Unusual surfaces
✔️Very high or low temperatures
✔️Long-term exposure
If your application is especially demanding, consult with a label specialist to select the right adhesive and material combination.
Want professional help or test samples for your project?
Contact us at enquiry@zdlabel.com — we’re happy to assist with your labeling challenges.