Types Of Laminators - Overview

There are two basic types of laminators:

• Cold Laminators
• Hot Laminators

Hot Laminators:

These are the most common types of laminators. They use heat (220 to 300 degrees F) to apply the lamination.

Hot laminators provide a better quality lamination that is more resistant to wear and tear. This may be the preferred method of lamination for materials that are not effected by heat.

Cold Laminators:

Cold laminators, such as the Brady BLS 1200 Laminator, use pressure sensitive adhesives to bind the lamination film.

Cold laminators are used when the material being laminated is sensitive to heat. For example, some ink jet printers use inks that can melt when heated. There are other types of printers that use heat sensitive paper. For these types of applications the cold laminator is the best choice.

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Laminating Material - Pouches:

Laminating pouches are pockets of laminating material into which the item to be laminated is placed. A hot laminator is used to seal the pouch and bind the layers together. Excess material is trimmed off leaving the laminated item.

Pouches come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses.

Pouch Size: Select the size that is appropriate for the item being laminated. (Large pouches / small pouches)

Pouch Thickness: pouches are available in thicknesses ranging from 3 mil to 10 mil. The thicker the material used, the stiffer and more durable the laminated item will be.

Laminating Material - Films:

Laminating films come in a variety widths and thicknesses. As with pouches, the thicker the film, the stiffer and more durable the laminated item will be.

Some laminating films are identified as being "low melt" films. These films require less heat and are used when laminating materials that are sensitive to high temperatures, such as photographs.

Films also provide the option of laminating one side or both sides of an item. Single-sided lamination is used, for example, to laminate a poster that is to be mounted on a backing board. (See the Varitronics ProFinish laminator).

Laminating films are available in a variety of finishes such as gloss, matte and satin.

LEARN MORE:
Hot or cold lamination?
How laminating pouches work
Laminate weights and finishes
Laminating Machines