laminator

A laminator is a device that applies a protective layer of clear plastic film to documents, photos, or other flat items by sealing the film around the item. The result is a rigid or flexible laminated sheet that is more resistant to moisture, dirt, and wear. Laminating film is available in two main formats: pouch film (pre-cut sheets) and roll film used in roll laminators. Lamination can be performed with heat-activated adhesives in hot laminators or with pressure-sensitive adhesives in cold laminators.

Hot laminators require preheating and use heated rollers to activate the adhesive and seal the film around the item. Cold laminators do not heat the film; instead, pressure from rollers couples a clear film with an adhesive layer. Pouch laminators feed the item and film through paired rollers, creating a sealed edge; roll laminators feed a continuous film and can handle larger or longer items with cutters to trim excess film.

Common applications include school projects, office documents, photographs, signs, and posters. Laminated materials are more durable and water-resistant but can be susceptible to edge cracking, curling, or delamination if films are not properly matched to item thickness or if lamination is done at improper temperatures. Very small or irregular items may require specialist mounting or trimming.

Safety and maintenance: follow manufacturer temperature and speed settings; avoid overheating; keep rollers clean and free of adhesive buildup; turn off and unplug when not in use. Clearing jams should be done with the unit unplugged and per instructions.