coldlamination

Cold lamination is a lamination method that uses adhesives which cure or set at room temperature, avoiding the heat used in traditional thermal lamination. It relies on pressure-sensitive, water-based, or UV-curable adhesives embedded in or applied to a protective film, allowing documents, photos, and other materials to be sealed without exposure to heat.

Common materials include protective clear films made of PET or vinyl with acrylic or rubber-based pressure-sensitive adhesives, or films with water-based or UV-curable bonding systems. The laminating film is usually structured as a two-layer sheet with an adhesive layer on one side and a removable liner on the other, or as separate top and bottom sheets that bond to the substrate under pressure.

Typical equipment ranges from hand tools and rollers to dedicated cold-lamination machines that feed and press film through at modest speeds. The general workflow involves cleaning and aligning the item to be laminated, applying the adhesive-backed film, pressing to remove air bubbles, and trimming the edges. Some systems use UV light to cure the adhesive for added durability.

Advantages of cold lamination include lower energy use, reduced risk of heat-induced warping or color shift, and suitability for heat-sensitive materials. It is often faster for short runs and simple applications. Limitations can include less chemical and moisture resistance compared with some heat-activated laminates, potential yellowing or edge lifting over time, and dependence on adhesive quality for long-term durability. It is commonly used for signs, posters, photographs, displays, and other printed materials where gentle handling and rapid turnaround are priorities.