There are many uses of laminating film in the paper and packaging industries. We use laminating film to provide food and non-food packaging. It has specific properties to improve the appearance and feel of a surface.
There are many types of laminating films, each of which has its own properties and purposes. There are a variety of matte and glossy thermal laminating films available. Some are for wet bonding, whereas others are for dry bonding.
Different types of lamination films:
There are many types of lamination films available. The most common of them are BOPP, PET, and nylon.
1. BOPP laminating films: BOPP stands for biaxially oriented polypropylene. It is available in many shades and finishes, such as high gloss, silky satin, and matte. The film creates moisture barriers. This barrier is resistant to pollution and chemicals, acting as a barrier to elements like grease and oils. Glossy BOPP films have excellent gloss. These are highly transparent and have good flatness and stability. BOPP sheets are good for the environment since they are recyclable.
2. PET laminating film: PET stands for biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate. These are commonly known as polyester films. Used for two-sided printing, these are more expensive. We use PET films in menu cards, identification cards, printed labels, engineering drawings, face shields, and masking applications. Available in either a glossy or matte finish, these are gaining popularity these days.
3. Nylon laminating film: Nylon films are more expensive than other alternatives. On the other hand, these are abrasion resistant. We use these laminating films for book covers and jackets. These thermal laminates are applied using a dry bonding process.
Here is how you can laminate paper
The process of joining two or more flexible webs using an adhesive is called adhesive lamination. There are mainly two types of methods, i.e., wet and thermal lamination.
1. Dry bonding: We use the dry bonding technique in thermal lamination. It implies that the adhesive is activated before combining the substrates. The film is applied using heat and pressure. We coat the substrate with resin or adhesive.
2. Wet bonding: When we must laminate two substrates, we use the technique of wet bonding. One substrate must be porous. We place the substrates together and let the adhesive between them cure. This technique is suitable for high-speed lamination. You'll find wet bonding for paperboard box lamination, documents, unprinted paper, and packaging.
Commonly, BOPP and PET films have this type of bonding. To do lamination, we use the standard method for wet adhesives, such as dispersion, solvent-based, hot melt, or UV adhesives.
3. Wax lamination: As the name suggests, a wax or hot melt adhesive is used as the bonding agent in the wax lamination process. This molten wax or hot melt adhesive is applied to a single substrate. The wax laminating process is greener and healthier for the environment. It is recyclable.
There are numerous biodegradable hot melt adhesives on the market these days. Because wax lamination works well with paper-paper and paper-aluminum foil laminates, this packaging is often used for cookies and other baked goods.
4. Solventless lamination: There has been a lot of demand for environmentally friendly packaging. And due to this demand, solventless lamination is gaining popularity these days. In solventless lamination, we don't use solvents during the entire process.
The adhesives are multi-component systems. The adhesives do not need to dry, making them suitable for fast-paced production. The curing process begins when the components react with each other. It is an easy and fast lamination technique.
How do you choose the best laminating film according to your requirements?
Choosing the best laminating film is difficult since so many types of films are available. Each of these has its properties and benefits. When selecting a laminating film, the following aspects are considered:
1. Environment: Since we use these to pack the products, they will be in direct contact with the environment. By "environment," we imply the surroundings. They will be exposed to heat, chemicals, and the sun. Consider all the factors before you choose a laminating film. For example, if you need a laminating film for perfume boxes, select the one that can survive in harsh environments. It should retain its appearance and strength.
2. Easy to use: The thickness of the laminating material dramatically affects how easy it is to use. If the lamination film is thick, it is suitable for flat surfaces. Thick films are challenging to bend. Similarly, using a thin film for curved and uneven surfaces is better. Thin films are versatile and can be used easily on curvy, round, or rough surfaces.
3. Quality: The quality of the film is of utmost importance. Good-quality films are a bit more expensive than average-quality films. However, the investment in superior quality will be worth it. A good-quality film will not provide strength and durability. The laminating film needs to be protective and durable. Investing in a good quality film that might cost more than the average film is justified.
4. Adhesive: It is essential to choose an adhesive based on its properties. It will be directly in touch with the substrate. Hence, pick a bond based on how you want it to look and the requirements of the substrate.
Conclusion
Now that you know everything about lamination, its types, and its process, buy the lamination sheets you require from JPFL Films. There are many types of lamination films available. So, study them based on their properties and applications. Explore all the options available, and then buy the one you need.
If you have any questions or confusion, it is better to speak to an expert. They will help you determine what you need and find the best lamination film based on that. Always keep an eye on the cost and properties of the lamination film you are considering buying. The price should be equivalent to the quality of the films. It should serve your purpose well. You can always experiment with a few products before sticking to one!