Jeff McRitchie

The Advantages of Cold Lamination

Over the years, laminators have most often become associated hot melting plastic that covers and protects a variety of materials. We think of big roll laminator machines seen in schools or the small devices used to create ID badges and driver's licenses. While this is still often the case, more offices are turning to cold lamination for an increasing list of reasons. If you are not completely sold on cold lamination as an effective protection method, here are a few more points to consider.

Over the years, laminators have most often become associated hot melting plastic that covers and protects a variety of materials. We think of big roll laminator machines seen in schools or the small devices used to create ID badges and driver's licenses. While this is still often the case, more offices are turning to cold lamination for an increasing list of reasons. If you're not completely sold on cold lamination as an effective protection method, here are a few more points to consider.

• Cold lamination is a more cost effective way to preserve items. Because of the lack of heat, much less electricity is needed. Some are hand operated and don't use any electricity at all. Although cold lamination supplies tend to be more expensive, the savings on your electricity bill will more than make up this difference.

• There is as wider variety of roll laminator film used with cold machines. These devices are designed to laminate and apply adhesive, only apply adhesive, or laminate with a matte adhesive. Trying to find materials to accomplish the same methods with a hot machine is difficult, especially if you need smaller sizes. Hot machines do have the advantage when it comes to laminating pouches. However, these are still available for cold machines, just not in as many sizes.

• Cold laminators are safer. Because no heat is required, you won't have to worry about the outside surfaces heating up and causing an accidental burn. This makes it much safer for use around children. It's also easier to quickly stash in a cabinet when you're done; you won't have to wait for it to cool off before clean up.

• They offer portability. Many cold laminators don't require electricity. They use pressure sensitive film to seal documents and other items. Smaller models can be taken with you to a scrapbooking party or to a friends house for on the go laminating.

• Cold machines can coat a wider variety of items. The lack of heat allows these devices to accommodate heat sensitive items. These can include photos, vinyl, and other thermally sensitive materials such as that used for ultrasound images.

• As a result of not using heat, they provide better quality. Cold lamination virtually eliminates the chance of wrinkles, bubbles, or curling happening during the laminating process.

• Cold laminator models are easier to use. You don't have to figure out the correct heat setting or double check to ensure your materials won't melt. Simply load the machine and start.

• These machines are faster. Whereas hot laminators require two to fifteen minutes to heat up, cold devices are instantly ready. By the time a hot machine warms up, you could be finished with your laminating while using a cold machine.

• Cold laminators are more versatile. With a cold device, you can create fun craft projects with your kids, such as making placemats, stickers, and magnets.

While cold laminators do have a few downsides, the positives overwhelmingly outweigh any negative points. Luckily, you don't necessarily have to choose; many laminators are available with both hot and cold settings. So get one today and start laminating!

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

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