
Thermal
lamination films are films laminated onto the steel plates after their
coating. These are widely used for packaging purposes. The outer layer
of the film has a heat activated resin coating - hence the term Thermal
Lamination. The thickness of the polyester determines the stiffness of
the film, and the quality of the polyester usually determines the
clarity.
Laminate usually consist of 2 plies with each ply made up of
overlaminate film and an adhesive. The document is placed between the
two plies and passed through the equipment where the dry adhesive is
made tacky by heat. The adhesive is then pressed onto the document under
high pressure. After cooling, the adhesive solidifies.
Thermal lamination films are available in a range of thickness and
finishing characteristics. They are also available in colored metallic
finish. Thermal laminating film is the ultimate way to finish printed
materials for beautiful and long-lasting results. The films can be used
to make various packaging products like attractive packaging pouches,
packaging bags, sheets, gift wrappers etc.
Types of Thermal Laminating Films
Standard Thermal Laminating Films - These are
polyester films with a polyethylene adhesive that requires temperatures
between 210º-240ºF to bond. These are the most popular films
today, largely due to their low price. They can also be the most
problematic to work with.
Low-Temperature Thermal Laminating Films - These are
polyester films with a polyethylene adhesive that requires lower
temperature of about 185º-210ºFto bond. These are essentially
second-generation thermal laminating films. These laminates will in all
likelihood replace standard thermal films in the near future.
Heatset (or Heat-Assisted) Laminating Films - These
are usually PVC- or polyester-based films with few exceptions. The
adhesive, however, is thermoplastic and only requires 170º-195ºF
to bond to the substrate being laminated.
Thermal Lamination Film Finishes
Glossy Clear Film - A film with a glossy, shiny
surface and excellent optics. It is bi axially oriented polypropylen
film with uniformly extrusion coated with adhesives all along the film
surface. It shows excellent bonding with all kinds of printed paper
products.
Matt Film - A film with a matte surface, a surface
that enhances the appearance of laminated products. It is bi axially
oriented polypropylen film with uniformly extrusion coated with
adhesives all along the film surface. It shows excellent bonding with
all kinds of paper products.
Advantages of Thermal Lamination Films
- The film leaves no residue on removal
- Film has low cost of installation and application
- Keeps scratches, dust and moisture away from painted steel plates
- Protects surface from damage during storage and transport
- Easy to set up
- Needs less space
- Low luster film
- Enhances contrast
- Enhances image and presentation
Applications of Thermal Lamination Films
- Steel and aluminum industry
- Tire manufacturers and automotive suppliers
- Automotive industry
- Construction industry
- Plastic industry
- Ideal for protecting trade show images
- Great for packaging
- For menus, placemats and posters