Difference Between Hot and Cold Lamination Film

These two options are related to how the laminating machine applies lamination to a document. A cold laminator uses pressure and adhesive to secure documents between sheets of lamination film. Some customers prefer these machines over hot laminators because the material they are laminating is not compatible with thermal films or they need a longer outdoor lifespan.

Hot Lamination Film

Hot lamination film comes in different variations depending on what type of media you are laminating. When laminating standard copy paper with primarily text and some graphic images a standard or homopolymer film can be used, which is run at 260° F to 290° F. This is the least expensive thermal film available. When you have coated papers or heavy color graphics a low-melt or copolymer film is used with added adhesive qualities, which is run at 230° F to 260° F. Some copiers or digital presses utilize wax-based particles to help the toner adhere to the paper or print media. This requires an even more aggressive adhesive sometimes referred to as an extra bond film.

Benefits of Hot Lamination Film

• The availability of various films depending upon the media laminating
• Thermal films are less expensive than cold films
• Some materials make it harder for the adhesives to get to the fibers of the paper, special low-melt films are available for these applications.
• Materials laminated are fully encapsulated for protection from moisture and debris.

Cold Lamination Film

The glue in “cold” lamination is more aggressive and can be applied with pressure rather than heat. A release liner shields the adhesive until the film is ready to be applied, which is commonly done on a cold-roll lamination machine with a release liner rewind. Cold lamination is typically utilized with print media not compatible with thermal films and only applied to one side to prolong the life of the printed image. Cold laminating films are generally more expensive than hot laminating films, although they can be applied with less expensive, non-heated or heat-assist cold lamination machines. A heat assist lamination machine applies only enough heat to soft adhesives and will have a maximum temperature of 140° F or less. Softening the adhesive prevents silvering, the tiny air bubbles that are visible over dark-colored images, in lamination film.

Benefits of Cold Lamination Film

• A cold lamination machine is less expensive and easier to operate.
• By applying low heat, the problem of unpleasant bubbles is solved.
• Additional UV and weather protection to prolong the life of prints.
• Because only one side of a graphic can be laminated, this is an excellent choice for adhesive-backed media meant for floor or wall decals and vehicle wraps as well.

At Filmsource Inc, we provide cutting-edge cold and hot laminating technology and equipment. Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help with your lamination requirements.