1. Basic Waterproof Performance Test
This is the most direct verification method, used to evaluate the label's basic performance in a water environment.
Water Immersion Test
Steps: Firmly adhere the label to the surface of the target material (e.g., a metal can), completely immerse it in room temperature water, and set the immersion time according to requirements (e.g., 24 hours, 72 hours, or longer).
Evaluation Items: After removal, wipe the surface dry and check for delamination, bubbling, curling, peeling, and whether the printed content is blurred or faded.
High Temperature Water Immersion Test
Applicable Scenarios: Simulates the hot water environment in a cleaning process (e.g., 60℃ warm water).
Method: Immerse the label in water at the set temperature for 5-30 minutes and observe its heat resistance and waterproof performance.
Spray/Drip Water Test (IPX Rating Reference)
IPX3/IPX4: Simulates rain or splash water environment, spray water from different angles for 10 minutes, and check whether the label is infiltrated or detached.
IPX7: Short-term immersion test. The label is immersed in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes to assess its water resistance.
2. Environmental adaptability and durability test: Simulates complex working conditions to ensure the label's stability and reliability during long-term use.
Damp heat cycling test: Places the label in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment (e.g., 85% RH, 60℃) for more than 48 hours, then returns it to room temperature, observing for adhesive layer failure or material deformation.
Friction test (wet state): After immersing the label in water, rubs the surface with a damp cloth or sponge with a fixed force to assess the abrasion resistance and anti-detachment ability of the printed graphics.
Thermal shock test: Alternates the label between -20℃ and 60℃ environments several times to test its adhesion stability under drastic temperature changes.
3. Adhesion and functionality verification: Ensures the label not only doesn't fall off but also maintains readability for a long time.
Peel Strength Test
Measure the change in adhesive strength of the label before and after water immersion using a 180° or 90° peel method to determine the degradation of adhesive performance.
Residual Adhesive Test
Check for adhesive residue on the substrate surface after label removal, especially suitable for reusable metal cans.
Print Durability Test
After printing with resin ribbon thermal transfer, test the clarity of the text and images after water immersion and friction to ensure the information remains legible.
✅ Recommended Combination Test: For industrial-grade metal can cleaning scenarios, it is recommended to use a combined testing process of "24 hours of room temperature water immersion + 1 hour of 60°C hot water immersion + wet friction" to comprehensively cover actual usage risks.
