Factors to Consider When Choosing A Lamination Pouch

A laminating pouch has two layers that join together to seal and protect important paper documents. Even though laminating was invented in the 1900s to store documents, today, it has many applications. Entrepreneurs can use it for menus, business cards or signage.

Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing a laminating roll film or pouch from a laminating equipment supplier.

1. Thermal Lamination Versus Self-Sealing Pouches

A laminating equipment supplier will usually have two sealing options for pouches. There are pouches you can seal with pressure, but the process can be time-consuming and sizes available are limited. The other option is thermal lamination, which involves the use of heat to activate the adhesive and create a strong permanent seal.

Thermal lamination is a better choice for large-scale projects. It not only saves time but also improves the quality of the seal. Using heat is preferable, where you expect to protect important documents for a long time.

2. Matte Finish

The finish is another crucial consideration when choosing a film from a laminating equipment supplier. There are two basic options for the finish: matte and gloss. Matte films have a subtle style that makes them easy to read They are suitable for protecting important documents as well as signage and menus by reducing glare for reading.

3. Gloss Finish for Enhancing Images

The gloss finish has a more conspicuous sheen than matte films, which can enhance colors by making them pop. They have a smooth surface and would be suitable for showcasing images of your products in a presentation book, for calendars or badges. They can also be a more cost-effective option for important documents that are stored to protect against natural disasters.

4. The Implication of Thickness

Your laminating equipment supplier will have films of varying thickness. In the United States, the thickness is in mils, which represents a thousand of an inch. A mil is approximately 25 microns, the standard measurement for thickness outside the USA.

The thickness you choose will depend on the application as well as the type of laminator you use. A 3 mil laminating pouch is suitable where handling is minimal and budget is a key concern. A 5 mil pouch is suitable for securing documents and a 10 mil pouch is best for badges or other items where heavy usage or handling would be common.

A thickness between 3, 5, 7 and 10 mils allows for choices between the rigidity of the film needed and the budget. You can also find pouches for different standard sheet sizes, such as letter, legal, ledger and menu.

5. Application of Lamination Pouches

There are many applications for the different types of lamination pouches. They can be used to enhance business cards, signage, and artwork visually. Often the primary purpose of the film is to protect the documents.

Therefore, it is crucial to consider its suitability for your application before buying from a laminating equipment company. Budget, aesthetics, and durability are just some of the factors you should evaluate to find the best film for your project.

Ensure You Buy The Right Pouch or Film

Whether at home or the office, lamination is an excellent way to protect documents from damage. It prevents creasing, staining, or wrinkling to keep your files clean and presentable. Depending on how you intend to use the lamination pouch or laminating roll film, thickness, size, and aesthetics are the topmost considerations. If you are looking for a laminating roll film, pouches or any other laminating equipment call Filmsource today to learn more. We are here to assist you.