subject: Six Features To Look For In A High-quality Pouch Laminator [print this page] When it comes to buying a pouch laminator, you have a lot of options available, but knowing what features you should look for requires a little bit of education beforehand. Here are six features you should look for so you can choose a high-quality device that will make you happy.
1.) A cold setting. Any high-quality laminator is going to offer both hot and cold settings. Hot lamination is good for most items, but you need a cold setting if you're going to be laminating items that are heat-sensitive. Two of the most commonly laminated items are photographs and documents printed with ink-jet ink, and these items do not do well in the heat. A cold setting is better for them, so make sure your machine has this feature.
2.) A wide throat and the ability to accept a variety of pouches. You definitely need to make sure the feed opening is big enough for your documents, otherwise they won't be able to fit inside the device. Go for a device with a throat measuring 9 or 13 inches across. (Or larger, if necessary.) Also, make sure the unit can accept different pouches. Laminating pouches come in several thicknesses, all to way up to 10 mil. The thicker the pouch, the more rigid your document will be. Different projects will require different pouches, so get a machine that can handle a variety of thicknesses so you can choose the right one for your document.
3.) Mounting board compatibility. Another feature to look for is if the machine is compatible with mounting boards. Mounting boards are usually foam core boards that allow you to adhere a sign, poster, etc. to the board. These boards offer an easy way to create signage, displays, and art projects when they just need to be stuck to a board and not protected by a sheet of laminate.
4.) Reverse function for jams. Jammed laminating pouches are frustrating to deal with and they even have the potential to damage your machine. However, if your laminator has a reverse function, it can be easy to remove the pouch. Of course, you can also reduce the chance of a jam occurring by using a carrier when you laminate, but since there's no guarantee of a jam never happening, make sure your device can kick it into reverse.
5.) Speed and temperature controls. Speed and temperature controls are nice to have because they allow you to get the machine to perform at the setting that's just perfect for what you're laminating. Not having the machine at the right speed or temperature can cause problems with your documents such as heat marks, bubbles, wrinkles, and other imperfections. You can avoid that problem by ensuring your device gives you total control. Silicone rollers can also help you get great results, so keep any eye out for those.
6.) Automatic shut-off. An automatic shut-off is a wonderful feature to have because it will prevent your laminator from overheating and burning itself out. This feature can make your work environment safer (no risk of fire) and it could potentially help you save money on repair costs or even a replacement machine. So make sure to look for this feature.
Finally, choose a laminator that has a decent warranty and comes from a well-known manufacturer. Some brands to consider are Akiles, GBC, Fellowes, and Lamitek.
If you get a machine that has the six qualities outlined in this article, you're going to end up with a fantastic laminator. Get shopping now and keep an eye out for a high-quality laminator with these six features.
