Phenolic labels are also commonly referred to as lamacoid or traffolyte labels, depending on region, specification, or industry.
This page explains what these terms mean, how they’re used today, and what materials are typically specified for engraved identification labels on commercial jobsites.
What are phenolic labels?
Phenolic labels are engraved identification labels commonly used on electrical panels, equipment, and industrial systems.
In modern practice, the term phenolic is widely used in the field to describe durable engraved labels, even though most labels today are produced using laminated engraving plastics rather than traditional phenolic resin.
What are lamacoid labels?
“Lamacoid” (sometimes spelled lamicoid) is a commonly used trade term for engraved laminated plastic labels.
While it originated as a brand name, the term is now used generically in specifications and on jobsites to describe engraved identification labels used for electrical and industrial applications. Lamacoid labels are often referred to interchangeably as phenolic labels.
What are traffolyte labels?
“Traffolyte” (sometimes spelled traffolite) is another legacy industry term for engraved laminated plastic labels. Like lamacoid, it originated as a brand name and is still commonly found in older specifications and drawings to describe engraved plastic labels used for panels, valve tags, and equipment identification.”Traffolyte” (sometimes spelled traffolite) is another legacy industry term for engraved laminated plastic labels.
Like lamacoid, it originated as a brand name and is still commonly found in older specifications and drawings to describe engraved labels used for panels, valve tags, and equipment identification.
Are phenolic, lamacoid, and traffolyte labels the same thing?
In practice, yes.
These terms are often used interchangeably to describe engraved laminated plastic identification labels. While terminology may vary based on region, age of the specification, or personal preference, they generally refer to the same type of permanent engraved label used for identification.
Were phenolic labels originally made from phenolic resin?
Historically, phenolic resin materials were used in early electrical and industrial applications, including some identification components.
As materials and manufacturing methods evolved, laminated engraving plastics became the preferred industry standard for engraved labels due to improved consistency, engraving clarity, and manufacturing efficiency.
Today, most identification labels commonly referred to as “phenolic” are produced using laminated engraving plastics rather than traditional phenolic resin.
What material are phenolic, lamacoid, and traffolyte labels made from today?
Modern engraved identification labels are typically produced from laminated engraving plastic sheets engineered specifically for permanent identification.
When engraved, the surface layer is removed to reveal a contrasting core layer, creating durable, high-contrast text that will not peel, fade, or wear off.
What does “three-layer laminated plastic” mean?
Three-layer laminated engraving plastic consists of:
- A surface layer that is engraved through
- A contrasting core layer that forms the text
- A base layer that provides rigidity and stability
This construction is commonly used for permanent electrical and industrial identification.
What thickness are phenolic / lamacoid / traffolyte labels?
early laminates were available in a wider range of thicknesses.
Today, engraved identification labels are typically produced in standard thicknesses of:
- 1/16 inch — commonly used and widely accepted for electrical and industrial identification
- 1/8 inch — used when a heavier, more rigid label is specified
There are no standard engraving plastic thicknesses between 1/16″ and 1/8″. When specifications reference 3/32″ for example, the closest standard material is typically used to meet the intent of the requirement.
Are phenolic, lamacoid, and traffolyte labels suitable for indoor and outdoor use?
Yes. Engraved laminated plastic labels can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments when the appropriate material selection and mounting method are applied.
Environmental exposure, surface type, and location typically determine the best material and installation approach.
How are engraved phenolic labels and tags mounted?
Mounting method depends on whether the identification is a fixed label or a hanging tag, as well as the application environment.
Common mounting methods include:
- Industrial-grade adhesive backing for flat, permanent installations
- Mechanical fasteners such as screws or rivets
- Attachment hardware such as zip ties, ball chains, S-hooks, or wire ties for tag-style identification
Mounting requirements are typically guided by project specifications and installation conditions.
Are phenolic, lamacoid, and traffolyte labels compliant with electrical specifications?
Engraved laminated plastic labels are commonly used to meet electrical identification requirements found in commercial and industrial project specifications, including labeling for panels, disconnects, and equipment.
Exact requirements—such as thickness, wording, and mounting—may vary by project, authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), or inspection criteria.
Do I need to know the exact terminology to order?
No. Whether your project refers to phenolic labels, lamacoids, or traffolyte, the intent is understood.
If questions arise, we can help clarify how project specifications are typically interpreted.