Cold lamination is a terrific way to
strengthen your documents while also protecting them. You can even
create visual aids for a variety of uses. One cold laminator to check
out is Drytac's JM26. Lets take a look at its strengths and weaknesses.
Cold lamination is a terrific way to
strengthen your documents while also protecting them. You can even
create visual aids for a variety of uses. One cold laminator to check
out is Drytac's JM26. Let's take a look at its strengths and weaknesses.
Strengths:
The
JM26 has a pretty good laminating width of 26.25 inches. The device is
large enough to handle a variety of paper sizes (i.e. letter, legal,
tabloid) so you'll be able to process both large and small items.
This
laminator's rollers can have a maximum nip opening of 0.75 inches. This
is wide enough to accommodate mounting boards so you'll be able to
create professional-looking visual aids for different uses. You can even
use foam boards, cardstock, and other thick materials if you want.
To
ensure all your items look great, this device is equipped with silicone
rollers that will evenly apply the film to your items.
The
JM26 is a cold laminator so you'll never have to waste time waiting for
it to warm up. It will also process your items quickly because it's
capable of working at speeds topping 18 feet per minute.
If
you're concerned about safety, you'll like working with the JM26. Since
it's a cold laminator, there's very little chance of getting burned.
There's also a safety stop that kicks in when the machine detects that
your hands are too close to the rollers. That makes this machine great
for environments in which safety is a top priority, such as schools.
This
machine is very easy to use even for people who are new to lamination.
The device comes with a foot pedal that speeds up and simplifies
operation while allowing your hands to remain free throughout the entire
process.
The JM26 is compact enough to fit on a desktop
despite its generous laminating width. Its dimensions are approximately
33” (width) x 12” (depth) x 12” (height).
Finally, this product is well-constructed and has steel parts for durability. It's backed by a year-long warranty.
Weaknesses:
The
JM26 is unable to process thermal film because it's a cold laminator.
(You'll want to make sure to purchase pressure-sensitive film to use
with it.) If you need a machine with a hot setting, this definitely
isn't the device to get.
This laminator weighs 53 pounds,
making it quite heavy. It may be difficult to move on your own, so be
sure to ask a colleague for help if you ever need to place it in a new
location.
Finally, this isn't the flashiest laminator you can
buy, unlike some of the devices from Fellowes and GBC. Because of its
appearance, it may be better suited for copy and print shops, as opposed
to offices.
Conclusion:
The
Drytac JM26 is a very good cold laminator. It's great that it's
compatible with a variety of materials because it will enable you to
process different kinds of items, such as thermally sensitive documents.
Just be sure to use the right type of film with it and get a friend to
help you move it. If that sounds good to you, check out the JM26 now.
