Designing Labels for Post E Coat Applications

Labeling metal parts after an E coat process is one of the toughest challenges in industrial labeling. At Consolidated Printing Supplies, we specialize in creating custom labels that perform under extreme conditions including high temperatures, chemical exposure, and low surface energy finishes.

A recent customer asked us if we could develop a label that would work after E coating. The parts are cured at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes in an industrial oven. The E coated surface is smooth, water based, and highly resistant to chemicals and abrasion. Could a label applied after this process hold up?

We said yes. And here is how we delivered.

What Is E Coating

E coat, also known as electrocoating, is a water based paint process used to protect metal parts from corrosion. It is common in automotive manufacturing, heavy equipment, and metal fabrication. During the process, parts are submerged in a paint bath and an electrical charge is applied to coat them uniformly. After application, the parts are cured in an oven to harden the finish.

This finish is durable and consistent, but it creates a labeling challenge. Most adhesives will not bond well. Many inks will not survive the heat or cleaning agents used later in the process. That is why selecting the right combination of label materials is critical.

The Customer’s Label Requirements

The label needed to meet several strict criteria:

• Withstand 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes without peeling, fading, or warping

• Maintain strong adhesion to the finished E coated surface

• Use an ink that stays readable and smudge free

• Be compatible with barcodes or serialized identification

• Remain durable through post production handling and possible chemical contact

This label would not be decorative. It had to be reliable, functional, and production ready.

Our Solution: Specialty Ink and High Temperature Adhesive

After evaluating several combinations of label materials, we identified the ideal construction:

• A thermal transfer printable polyester face stock

• A high performance acrylic adhesive designed for low surface energy materials like E coated or powder coated metal

• A thermal transfer ribbon formulated to withstand heat without fading or smearing

We provided sample labels to our customer for real world testing on actual production parts. These labels were applied after the E coating process and then exposed to:

• 400 degree Fahrenheit oven cycles for 45 minutes

• Wipe tests using alcohol and other surface cleaners

• Adhesion pull tests

• Barcode scanning under normal plant lighting

The labels passed all tests with no signs of edge lifting, ink failure, or loss of readability.

What This Means for Manufacturers

If you are applying labels to parts after E coating, there are three critical elements to get right:

1. Use an adhesive designed specifically for high temperature applications and painted or coated surfaces

2. Choose a ribbon or ink that is heat stable and chemical resistant

3. Confirm that your label material remains dimensionally stable and will not shrink or wrinkle during heat exposure

Many manufacturers assume labels cannot survive on E coated parts. With the right construction, they can not only survive but add value to your traceability, identification, or compliance efforts.

Let Us Help You Build the Right Label

At Consolidated Printing Supplies, we understand the demands of industrial environments. We have deep experience in labeling for E coat, powder coat, high heat, cryogenic, cleanroom, and outdoor conditions. Whether you need roll labels, thermal transfer printers, UL recognized constructions, or just advice on what works, we are ready to help.

Contact us today to request samples or talk through your application with one of our technical experts.