Lamination is the process of enclosing a document between layers of plastic film and sealing its edges. Photos, posters, letters, certificates, and cards are all examples of documents that commonly use this technique. There are various types of lamination machines, each with its own set of laminators. Lamination is a cold method of adhering a protective plastic film to a printed image. Dry mounting is the most expensive of the three options because it requires precise heat and pressure regulations. Laminated documents are also more professionally protected if they must be transported via mailing or shipping services.
Lamination is simply the process of enclosing a document between two layers of plastic film and sealing its edges to protect it from outside influences that could cause damage. Photos, posters, letters, certificates, and cards are all examples of documents that commonly use this technique, and the items can be produced professionally or at home using special laminating products.
Among the various types of laminators available, those that use the thermal (or heat) lamination process are actually layers of film made of a polyester base and resin. The resin layer melts during the heating process and is then spread across the surface of the print using pressure. Once applied, the adhesive begins to cool and harden, forming a permanent bond between the film and the print.
There are various types of laminating machines, each with its own set of laminators. The most basic will allow you to feed the document into a laminating machine, where it will come into contact with the adhesive, which will then be pressed together by rollers or, in some cases, an oversized plate.
Choosing the Right Laminator
Depending on the material to be protected, specific laminators must be used to complete the job correctly. As a result, it is critical to match the appropriate type of laminator to the material being used. In other words, different types of laminators will be required for prints on paper, wood, or fabric.
Because of the steps required to successfully laminate a print, the size of the document is critical. Because lamination pouches are used during the process, you must ensure that they are a proper fit before the technique can be completed successfully.
The frequency with which you use the lamination machine, as well as the size of the jobs, should be considered. If you intend to use it on a daily basis or for large lamination jobs, you should buy a heavy duty laminating machine. You might be better off getting an industrial machine for particularly large jobs.
Thickness is also an important consideration, as prints that are thicker will require a spring-loaded roller to be fed through the machine properly. This type of tool has the advantage of automatically adjusting to the thickness of the material being introduced.
Machines with a stand-by mode and a readiness indicator are best suited for use throughout the day, such as in an office setting.
Lamination (Hot)
Depending on the material and desired effect, different jobs will necessitate different types of laminators, either hot or cold.
For documents of up to 20 pages "Pouch laminators are used in width. This method works best for photographs, ID tags, and other similar-sized jobs.
If you want to process prints that are 20" to 60" wide and 1" thick, you'll need to use a roll laminator "in thickness.
Dry mounting is the most expensive of the three options because it requires the use of tissue adhesive as well as precise heat and pressure regulations, in addition to the time required to apply a substrate to the product. This technique necessitates the use of specialized machinery, which is commonly found in professional print shops.
Lamination (Cold)
Tape lamination is a cold method of adhering a protective plastic film to a printed image. After inserting a pre-wound, rolled cartridge of laminated film into the machine and inserting the document, the adhesives and print are pulled into the machine with two rollers after pressing a button or turning a hand crank. These are commonly used in the home, office, photo-finishing labs, and sign shops.
Finishes of Various Types
A laminated product can be finished in five different ways. The best finish for the job will depend on the type of effect you want to achieve.
Standard Clear creates a glossy finish + Satin reduces glare without frosting + Matte creates a slightly frosted finish + Crystal gives a granular texture + Scratch-resistant - hard finish for added durability
With the right tools, you can create a variety of high-quality products suitable for framing, posting, or inserting into a keepsake binding. Laminated documents are also more professionally protected when prepared for packaging if they must be transported via mailing or shipping services.
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