The Akiles Roll@Blade rotary paper trimmer series offers precise trimming at a budget-friendly price, making it a popular choice among schools, offices, and production environments alike. With its self-sharpening tungsten blade and twin sliding poles, it will provide years of trouble-free use with little-to-no maintenance. Below we take a closer look at the features of the Akiles Roll@Blade series and share step-by-step instructions for using each of the models.
The Basics
The Akiles Roll@Blade is available in three lengths – 18″, 36″, and 64″ (which comes mounted on a rolling work table with a built-in waste receptacle). All three models feature the same high-quality, self-sharpening tungsten blade, which helps to ensure a clean, precise cut every time. To utilize the self-sharpening feature, simply slide the blade carriage back and forth along the twin sliding poles without any media in the cutter. The Roll@Blade is capable of cutting practically any material up to 2mm in thickness, including paper, cardboard, plastic, vinyl, aluminum foil, PVC, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, leather, and more. In order to accurately cut all types of materials and document sizes, the Roll@Blade features a ruler guide and adjustable depth margin, a convenient, gridded work table, and a clamping bar that prevents shifting during trimming.
To keep the cutting action smooth and silent, you may need to lightly lubricate the twin sliding poles from time to time. It is also recommended that you keep the blade clean and free from dust and other residue.
Instructions
Place your Roll@Blade on a flat, sturdy work surface. Note: Always carry your Roll@Blade by the work table. Never use the twin sliding poles to move your cutter, as it may cause damage to it.
Position the blade carriage at either end of the twin sliding poles. The Roll@Blade’s rotary design allows it to cut in both directions.
Adjust the depth margin based on the size of the item that is being trimmed. To move the depth margin guide, slightly loosen the screw that holds it in place and slide it to the desired location. Once the guide has been positioned, tighten the screw to secure it.
Insert the material that is being trimmed beneath the clamping bar (located at the front of the trimmer) and align it to both the ruler guide and depth guide.
Use one hand to hold your item(s) in place and use the other hand to slide the blade carriage from one end of the trimmer to the other. Moving the blade carriage through your entire item in a single movement will help to ensure a smooth, accurate cut. Never place your fingers on or near the clamping bar while trimming.
Remove your item(s) and repeat steps 3-5 as necessary to cut to the desired size.
In Review
The Akiles Roll@Blade series features quality trimmers that are both easy-to-use and powerful. Unlike light-duty rotary trimmers which have a small capacity and are limited to trimming paper, the Roll@Blade provides precise, accurate results on a wide variety of materials up to 2mm thick (including up to 15 sheets of 20 lb. paper per cut). Because it is offered in 18″, 36″, and 64″ lengths, the Roll@Blade is well-suited for projects of all sizes, from small photographs to large-scale display materials. Since it requires only minimal maintenance, the Roll@Blade is an excellent choice for communal use in a school or office setting. If you have a need for a precise paper cutter that is both user-friendly and safe, the Akiles Roll@Blade is well worth the investment.
From identification badges to menus to point-of-purchase displays, a pouch laminator can create a wide array of business materials for organizations of all sizes. Finding the right pouch laminator for your business means striking the right balance between cost and features – especially in today’s economy. In this post, we take a look at the TL-320B 12″ pouch laminator, which pairs professional-level features with a budget-friendly price.
The Basics
The TL-320B pouch laminator is a thermal pouch laminator that is capable of laminating pouches ranging from 3 – 10 mils in thickness. It has a 12.6″ maximum laminating width, which makes it an excellent choice for letter-, legal-, and menu-sized documents. In addition to having two heated rollers, the LD-320B also has a set of two cold rollers (which help to dissipate heat after laminating to ensure that your document is flat). The rollers themselves are coated with silicone, which prevents adhesive residue from sticking to them. Silicone rollers also help to protect your pouches against scuffs and scratches (often left by heat shoe laminators).
To use the TL-320B laminator, begin by adjusting the digital temperature setting based on the thickness of your pouches. Once the laminator has reached the proper temperature (approximately 3 – 4 minutes), simply insert the pouch containing your document so that it feeds between the rollers. The LD-320B has a laminating speed of 25.6″ per minute, so it will laminate nearly three letter-sized documents every 60 seconds. After your laminated document has exited through the back of the machine, allow it to lay flat to cool. In the case of an accidental misfeed or jam, the LD-320B features a convenient reverse switch that changes the direction of the rollers so that you can remove your document.
Benefits of the LD-320B
While the LD-320B has a number of useful features, the most obvious benefit of this specific model is the price. Though the LD-320B offers the same laminating speed, laminating width, and laminating thickness range as other office- and professional-quality models, this machine retails for less than half of the price of other comparable units. It is built for durability – featuring a sleek metal casing and metal internal gears – which means that it can stand up to frequent use in an office environment. Furthermore, the LD-320 includes a one-year warranty for added peace-of-mind.
In Review
Pouch laminators make versatile additions to practically every office. They are compact, easy-to-use, and surprisingly affordable – especially in the case of the LD-320B. This 12″ pouch laminator is capable of laminating full-size menus as well as small identification cards (and everything in-between) in thicknesses ranging from 3 – 10 mils. It features two heated silicone rollers, two cold rollers (designed to help documents lay flat after lamination), metal casing and gears, a quick, 3 – 4 minute warm-up time, a reverse switch, and an easy-to-adjust digital temperature setting. Despite being a professional-quality laminator, the TL-320B pouch laminator has a price tag that is less than half of the retail price of comparable models. If you’re looking for a thermal pouch laminator that is durable, powerful, and affordable, then take a closer look at the LD-320B.
Multi-function binding machines are a cost-effective way to add a variety of binding styles to your office. One of the most affordable and versatile multi-function binding machines on the market today is the Tamerica 213PB, which offers comb and wire binding capabilities as well as three-hole punching. In this post, we take a closer look at the 213PB binding machine and learn about the unique features that it offers.
The Basics
The 213PB comb binding machine is a manual punch and bind machine. It has a 12″ maximum punching length and 21 disengageable pins, which enable it to punch standard letter-sized sheets as well as specialty paper sizes. Since all of the punching dies are disengageable, you can even use this machine with three hole-punched paper or other pre-punched paper styles. The Tamerica 213PB utilizes self-sharpening hollow ground dies, which give it a robust 20-page punching capacity (based on 20 lb. paper). The built-in comb opener is capable of binding with combs as small as 3/16″ (approximately 12 pages) and as large as 2″ (approximately 425 pages).
In addition to comb binding, the 213PB can also perform wire binding using spiral-o wire (specifically designed to fit the 19-hole pattern of comb binding), thanks to the built-in wire closer. The maximum binding size when using spiral-o wires is 1/2″ (approximately 80-100 pages). In addition to offering wire binding capabilities, the 213PB also functions as a three-hole punch.
The feature-packed 213PB has a four-position depth margin adjustment, side margin control, and a convenient waste compartment. It is made with all-metal construction, so it is designed to stand up to regular use, and is backed by a two-year warranty. Considering that it is a fully manual binding machine, it has a fairly substantial punching output of up to 5,000 sheets per hour and binding output of up to 250 books per hour.
Benefits of the 213PB
For organizations that want to be able to perform both economical comb binding and secure wire binding, the 213PB is one of the most affordable dual-function binding machine on the market. Because comb-bound books are easy to edit, comb binding is an excellent choice for frequently updated documents such as price books or training materials. With the 213PB, you can use cost-effective plastic binding combs to bind your large-volume binding projects and reserve the more costly spiral-o binding spines for books that require extra durability. Furthermore, the 213PB is the only machine in its class that acts as a three-hole punch in additional to performing both comb and spiral-o wire binding.
Unlike comparable binding machines that have a fixed punching width of 11″ with no disengageable pins, the 213PB has a 12″ punching width with an open throat to accommodate longer documents in a multi-step punching process and has 21 disengageable pins. Though most users will only be binding standard letter-sized sheets, the added versatility of being able to bind with oversized or specialty paper sets the 213PB apart from the competition.
In Review
Being able to bind documents on-site saves time and money, which is why organizations of all sizes are investing in desktop binding machines. Investing in a multi-function binding machine is an excellent way to make the most of your budget, since it gives you the greatest versatility. The Tamerica 213PB is a well-designed desktop binding machine that enables users to bind with both plastic binding combs and spiral-o wires, in addition to being a three-hole punch. While it is a fully manual machine that isn’t designed for high-volume production environments, it is an affordable, all-metal binding machine that can stand up to frequent use and includes a two-year warranty. If you’re looking for a compact binding machine that is big on versatility, be sure to consider the Tamerica 213PB.
In addition to traditional binding methods like comb, coil, and wire binding, many organizations are turning to unique, new binding systems that offer innovative and useful features, such as secure and professional simple channel binding. In this post, we take a closer look at the Atlas-150 Metal Bind system and learn more about what sets simple channel binding apart from other traditional binding styles.
The Basics
Simple channel binding uses rigid, U-shaped, metal spines to bind documents. Unlike comb, coil, and wire binding, which all require that holes be punched into the document that is being bound, simple channel binding relies on the pressure created by the crimped metal spine to hold the pages in place. Metal Bind spines are available in seven sizes and two colors, and can accommodate documents up to 150 pages thick (based on regular 20 lb. paper). They are offered in an 11″ length, which is suitable for binding letter-sized documents.
The simple channel binding process is fast and surprisingly simple. The simple channel spine of the correct size is first inserted into the machine, with the open portion of the channel facing up. Use the adjusting lever to properly align the spine within the binding throat, then insert your document (including covers) into the spine. Align the document so that the edges are flush with the edges of the spine. Hold the document in place, and pull the handle toward you to crimp the spine and secure the pages within it. Release the handle then remove the finished document from the machine. Because documents bound with the Atlas-150 can only be debound using a specialized tool, they are tamper-resistant and extremely durable. They can also stand upright (even when used with soft binding covers), making them easy to file and store.
Benefits of the Atlas-150
The Atlas-150 simple channel binding machine offers a number of benefits that can be appreciated by organizations of all sizes. It is a fully manual binding machine, so it requires no electricity to operate. This machine is also fairly compact, with a desktop footprint that is smaller than 11″ x 17″. It can easily be transported between offices or assigned to a small workspace within practically any office environment. Furthermore, organizations do not need to stock a large selection of supplies in order to accommodate all document sizes, since there are only seven spine widths.
Having documents that are truly secure and tamper-resistant is a concern for many businesses, especially those in the legal and financial industries. Since the spine is permanently crimped during the metal bind binding process, it is impossible to remove or replace pages without using the specialized debinding tool (followed by re-binding the document using a new spine). In addition, the simple channel spines are sleek and bound documents are easy to stack or store, unlike books made with other traditional binding styles.
Another advantage of the Atlas-150 Metal Bind system is that it is faster than most other traditional binding systems. Simple channel binding does not require that any holes be punched into the document, which means that the additional step of punching is eliminated. Punching is often the most time consuming portion of the traditional binding process, since large documents have to be punched in smaller sets based on the punching capacity of each individual binding machine. With punching eliminated, documents can be bound much more quickly and large runs can be completed in considerably less time.
In Review
The Atlas-150 Metal Bind machine is a versatile and unique binding system that is compact, affordable, and powerful. While simple channel binding spines are available in fewer colors and cost a bit more than their wire, comb, and coil binding counterparts, they offer unmatched security and ease of storage. Also, since the binding process doesn’t require any punching, your production speed can be faster than with traditional punch-and-bind systems. If your organization is looking for an innovative alternative to standard binding styles, then be sure to take a look at the Atlas-150.
The Tamerica ECO-21 comb binder is an affordable desktop binding machine that is surprisingly robust. It offers users a wide selection of features, including a substantial punch capacity, disengaging pins, and an adjustable depth margin, but is priced at less than $150. In this review, we’ll get to know the ECO-21 and learn what sets it apart from other entry-level comb binding machines.
The Basics
Comb binding is one of the most popular traditional binding styles, primarily because it uses affordable supplies and allows bound documents to be easily edited. Plastic binding combs are made up of a series of 19 rings (for letter-sized documents), which correspond to the 19-hole comb binding punch pattern. The rings are inserted into the pre-punched rectangular holes with the aid of a comb opener to create a bound document. Because there is no crimping or closing of the comb binding spine (as there is with binding coils and wire-o spines), a bound document can be reinserted into the comb opener to allow pages to be added or removed without requiring a new spine.
The ECO-21 is a manual punch, manual bind machine. It has a 12″ maximum punching length with a total of 21 pins, and punches the standard 19-hole pattern for letter-sized sheets. It also has an open punching throat, which allows sheets longer than 12″ to be punched in a multi-step process. All 21 pins are disengageable, which means that you can selectively eliminate holes to accommodate specialty paper sizes. The ECO-21 also allows you to adjust both the side margin (the distance of the holes from the side of the page) and punching depth margin (the depth of the holes from the binding edge – generally closer to the edge for thinner documents and farther from the edge for thicker documents). The maximum punch capacity is 15 sheets per pull (based on 20 lb. paper), and the binding capacity ranges from 3/16″ to 2″ (approximately 12 pages to 425 pages).
The Tamerica ECO-21 weighs less than 14 pounds, and measures only 15-15/16″ wide by 11-7/16″ deep by 6-1/2″ tall. It is small enough to fit on most desktops, and is light enough to be easily transported between offices. Despite its small footprint and low weight, it has an attractive and durable metal casing and is backed by a one-year warranty.
In Review
With features like fully disengageable pins and an adjustable depth margin, the ECO-21 is ideal for small office environments with low to moderate binding volumes. It offers more options than most other machines in its class, but has a price point that is under $150. Though it is not designed for high volume use or production settings, it does have an excellent balance between cost and features, and is one of the more durable machines offered in that pricing level. If you are looking for an entry-level comb binding machine that is packed with features but won’t break the bank, then you should definitely take a closer look at the Tamerica ECO-21 comb binder.
Pouch laminators are a great investment for protecting documents of all types, from important company documents and pricelists to favorite photographs and mementos. With a wide array of models available at price points ranging from tens of dollars to thousands, it’s important to find the right balance of cost and features that is suited to your specific needs. In this post, we take a closer look at the SircleLam HQ-230, which is a basic and affordable pouch laminator that is ideal for home use.
The Basics
The SircleLam HQ-230 is a 9″ pouch laminator that is capable of laminating both 3 mil and 5 mil pouches. It features adjustable temperature, and includes a cold setting that allows you to seal self-laminating pouches. The HQ-230 is also capable of laminating photographs, which is one of the reasons that it is a popular model for home and hobby use. To make the laminating process smooth and trouble-free, the HQ-230 has a reverse lever (to aid in clearing jams) and feeds back-to-front. It has two rollers and comes with a one-year warranty.
The HQ-230 laminator utilizes heating plates (as opposed to the heated silicone rollers that are used in more advanced laminators), which is why we recommend using a carrier sheet to help protect your rollers from adhesive build-up. It has a six-minute warm-up time, but because of its plastic outer casing and less powerful motor (as compared to office and professional-level machines), we advise turning off the machine and allowing it to cool completely after each hour of use.
In terms of laminating speed, the HQ-230 is capable of laminating up to 9.85″ per minute, which means that it will take more than a minute to laminate a letter-sized pouch. While most home users will find this speed adequate for occasional laminating projects, office and production environments will save a great deal of time by investing in a faster laminator.
In Review
At less than $60, the SircleLam HQ-230 is one of the most affordable pouch laminators on the market. It has a number of great features, such as a reverse lever, the capability to laminate photos, and a quick, six-minute warm-up time, despite its very reasonable price point. It has been designed with the home/hobby user in mind, which is why it has a slow laminating speed and is limited to only laminating 3 mil and 5 mil pouches. Though it is not a fit for office use or high-volume production, the HQ-230 is a good choice for people who want to laminate occasionally and are looking to keep their costs low.
While pouch laminators have been the preferred choice for laminating small documents for many years, a growing number of organizations have been replacing their pouch laminators with compact roll laminators. With sizes from 12″ – 13″ wide, these office-friendly laminators utilize bulk film rolls instead of pre-cut laminating pouches, which can reduce your supply costs. In this post, we take a closer look at the Tamerica VersaLam 1300 – a heavy-duty 13″ roll laminator that can mount, laminate up to 10 mil, and even perform single-sided lamination.
The Basics
The VersaLam 1300 from Tamerica is a 13″ roll laminator that is capable of laminating with film thicknesses ranging from 1.5 to 10 mil. Unlike other comparably-sized roll laminators, the VersaLam has a 3″ core (using core adapters included along with the standard 1″ mandrel), which allows it to use larger film rolls (up to 500′) and a greater variety of film types. Many professional-quality films are only available with a 3″ core, making the VersaLam 1300 the only 13″ laminator able to use specialty films like DIGIKote, Super-Lam, and nylon laminating film. Though its laminating speed is a modest 4′ per minute, it can mount up to 3/16″, has high-quality heated silicone rollers, includes a rolling metal stand, and has a one-year warranty.
Furthermore, the VersaLam 1300 can perform both two-sided and single-sided lamination. It is equipped with decurling bars, which counteract the curling tendencies of documents that are only laminated on one side to help ensure a flat finished product. It also has an independent on/off switch for the bottom roller, so that the heat can be turned off during single-sided lamination.
In Review
Small roll laminators (with a laminating width of 13″ or less) are growing in popularity with schools, copy centers, churches, offices, and even home users, because they have lower supply costs compared with pouch laminators and can often increase output speed (since the documents can simply be fed into the machine instead of being manually inserted into pouches). While there are a number of quality, entry-level machines in this size, there are very few professional-level machines. The VersaLam 1300 is capable of laminating using films up to 10 mil thick, can utilize rolls with both 1″ and 3″ core sizes, mounts up to 3/16″ thick, and includes a heavy-duty, rolling, metal stand. It is also able to perform single-sided and double-sided lamination, thanks to built-in decurling bars and an independent heating switch for the bottom roller.
Though the VersaLam 1300 may be too large of an investment for small offices, it is by far the most affordable machine on the market when it comes to single-sided lamination. It is also the only 13″ machine that uses heated silicone rollers instead of heat shoes (which tend to leave small scratches in the film as it passes over them). If you’re looking for a robust roll laminator that is packed with features but doesn’t occupy a lot of space, then you’ll definitely want to consider the VersaLam 1300.
Many offices have transitioned their document binding in-house, but finding a binding machine that offers the right combination of features in an office-friendly size can be tricky. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the iCoil-41 binding machine series, which pairs essential binding functions with an attractive and compact design.
The Basics
Coil binding utilizes a 4:1 pitch hole pattern (four holes per inch) in conjunction with plastic coils to create bound documents. Depending on the binding machine used, the punch is either operated manually or electrically, with most small office machines utilizing manual operation. Though the coils can be inserted by hand (by simply twisting the coil through the holes in the document), organizations that bind frequently generally prefer to use an electric coil inserter to speed up production time and increase efficiency. Electric coil inserters are built in to a number of coil binding machines, but can also be purchased as stand-alone units. In order to complete the bind, it is necessary to trim the excess coil and crimp the ends so that the coil will be secured within the document. This is most commonly done with a pair of hand-held cutting and crimping pliers, though some high-volume production environments use electric coil cutting and crimping units.
Benefits of the iCoil-41 Binding Machine Series
The iCoil-41 coil binding machine series from Akiles has two models – the iCoil-41 and the iCoil-41+. Both offer the same general features, including a 15-sheet manual punch capacity, a compact electric coil inserter, and a free pair of manual coil crimpers, but the plus model also has oval holes instead of round holes (for easier coil insertion) and a letter 4:1 pitch hole pattern instead of standard 4:1 pitch (which eliminates partially punched holes at the edges of the paper). The iCoil binding machines have a streamlined design, which includes a hinged cover that keeps the machine clean and protected when not in use. The electric coil inserter is operated with a convenient foot pedal, and is capable of inserting coils up to 7/8″ (coils up to 2″ can be inserted manually). As with all Akiles binding machines, the iCoil coil binders have a 1-year warranty and are built with the utmost care and precision.
In Review
To help cut costs and increase productivity, many businesses are bringing their document binding in-house. With coil binding being one of the most popular and cost-effective binding styles, coil binding machines are especially well-liked within the office environment. The Akiles iCoil binding machine series is packed with features usually found in more costly machines, including an electric coil inserter, but a much more attractive price point. If your organization has been considering an investment in a binding machine, then be sure to take a closer look at the iCoil binding machine series.
Take the mess out of your next mounting project by trading in your traditional adhesives for GlueGliders! Whether you’re bonding foams, fabrics or fibers to any substrate, GlueGliders MAX adhesive applicators make it possible. Their pressure-sensitive adhesives form an instant bond, leaving no mess, residue or odor. They provide a quick and easy solution for a variety of packaging, printing, manufacturing, and assembly applications.
The Basics
GlueGliders MAX Guns are handheld adhesive applicators that apply a layer of glue from a specialized cartridge to nearly any substrate. The cartridges come in two styles – Adhesive Squares and PermaTac – in a variety of adhesion strengths and sizes. To apply the adhesive onto a substrate, simply press the tip against the surface and pull the gun toward you. The versatile adhesives stick to corrugated surfaces, wood, metal, plastic, porous surfaces, foams, fabric, and more.
Adhesives
Adhesive Squares cartridges contain 1/2” x 1/2” squares of glue, available in Medium Tac, High Tac, and Super-High Tac (all of which are low profile 12 mil adhesive). By the nature of their square shape, Adhesive Squares provide exact application standards every time, so you have one less variable to worry about during your gluing process. PermaTac cartridges are continuous rolls of adhesive available in 1/2” and 1” widths, in both Medium Tac and High Tac adhesion strengths (all of which are low profile 12 mil adhesive). Because the PermaTac cartridges apply a steady line of adhesive, they are ideal for large projects, such as mounting posters.
Adhesive Squares are also available in bulk rolls for use without a GlueGlider MAX Gun. They are offered in two sizes – 1/2” x 1/2” and 3” x 3” – in low (12 mil), medium (25 mil), and high (40-50 mil) profiles at adhesion strengths ranging from Medium Tac to Super-High Tac. Since they are manually applied, the bulk rolls of Adhesive Squares are an excellent choice for projects like gift baskets and other packaging applications.
Benefits
The major benefit of the GlueGlider MAX Gun is the ease of use. Unlike liquid adhesives, glue applied with the GlueGlider MAX Gun does not run or smear, meaning that there is less mess and no clean-up. In addition, the gun applies adhesive directly where you want it, making for a more accurate adhesion process. The adhesive used by this system is specially formulated, with no VOCs or solvents, eliminating both the risk of burns and environmental disposal concerns. The formulation has been approved by the FDA, and has been medically certified for direct skin contact.
In Review
With its no-fuss application and high quality adhesives, the GlueGlider MAX Gun is a great fit for the construction site or the craft room (and everywhere in between). The adhesive itself is top-notch, with a wide selection of adhesion strengths and profiles available on the market. The gun has been specifically designed to stand up to years of use with little to no adhesive build-up on the internal gears. The initial investment may be more than buying a container of your favorite adhesive, however the time that you save (both during application and clean-up) will likely make up for the additional expense.
Many types of businesses and organizations can benefit from owning their own roll laminating machine, but with all of the specialty functions and features present on many large-format laminators, determining which machine best fills your specific needs can be a difficult task. In this post, we will discuss the basics of each type of roll laminator to help you make an informed decision on which machine is most appropriate for your organization.
The Basics
Nearly all roll laminators are thermal machines, which means that they utilize heat to seal the edges of the laminate film and fuse the layers together. Depending on the machine, the heat is applied by either heated rollers or heat shoes, which are long, flat, aluminum plates. Regardless of the type of heating element, all machines utilize rollers to help ensure secure adhesion, eliminate air bubbles and move the laminated documents through the machine. While the machine cost is somewhat higher for a roll laminator as compared to a pouch laminator, roll laminating film is far cheaper per square foot than laminating pouches of comparable thickness, so organizations transitioning from laminating with pouches to laminating with roll film will likely notice a significant cost savings on supplies.
All thermal roll laminating machines offer variable temperature control to allow users to adjust the heat level based on the thickness of the laminating film and the document being laminated. Many roll laminators also include a reverse feature, which makes it easier to clear jammed or misfed documents. Other popular features include adjustable speed, adjustable tension, cutting and slitting devices, forced air cooling fans (to help reduce curling of laminated items), and the ability to operate the machine using a footswitch.
When selecting a roll laminator, you’ll need to evaluate the features that are the most important to your specific needs. If you will be producing a high volume of laminated documents, then you may want to look for a machine with a higher maximum laminating speed. If you plan on performing mounting, then you’ll want to look for a machine that allows for mounting (and can accommodate the thickness that you will be most commonly using). Those who only laminate standard-sized documents may be content with a model that has a maximum document width of 13″, while those looking to laminate signs or other larger displays will likely want a machine that offers a greater maximum width. Taking the time to review the specific features of the available roll laminating machines will help to ensure that you get the best laminator for your purposes.
School & Office Laminating Machines
Our selection of school and office laminating machines range in width from 13″-27″, and are generally the most budget-friendly models. Some machines within this category are able to handle laminating film up to 10 mils in thickness, but many models are only able to laminate using 1.5 mil or 3.0 mil film. The maximum speed of the school and office laminators is slower than that of commercial-level machines, but they are still considerably faster than most pouch laminating machines.
Warranty: One Year Parts Warranty, Six Month Labor Warranty, Three Month Roller Warranty
If you’re looking for a well-made, versatile machine to laminate posters, signage or even gang-runs of smaller items such as index cards or letter-sized paper, the D&K Minikote 27″ School & Office Roll Laminator is a great entry-level machine at a reasonable price. Businesses seeking faster lamination with more advanced features will likely want to explore our collection of wide format laminating machines, discussed in the following section.
Wide Format Laminating Machines
Similar in function to our school and office laminators, our wide format laminating machines feature a wider maximum width, increased speed and a broader range of features for medium-duty users. These mid-level machines have a laminating width ranging between 27″-60″, and are capable of laminating up to 30′ per minute. They also perform mounting of up to 1/2″ thick, and can laminate with film up to 10 mils in thickness.
ProLam PL-238WF High Performance Wide Format 38″ Laminator
Max. Roll Width: 38″
Mils: Up to 10 Mil Film
Speed: 7′ per Minute
Silicone Rollers: Yes
Heating Method: Heated Rollers
Mounting Thickness: Up to 1/4″
Cooling Fans: Four Fans
Power Requirements: 240 Volt, 20 Hz, 2800 Watts – 30 Amps Dedicated Circuit
Warranty: One Year Parts & Labor
For businesses seeking a powerful, mid-level machine capable of mounting and laminating with film up to 10 mil thick, the ProLam PL-238WF High Performance Wide Format 38″ Laminator is a robust machine at an attractive price point. Advanced features like the built-in stand and cooling fans allow users to achieve professional-grade results within their own offices. If you’re looking for an even more powerful machine for industrial applications, then you’ll want to read on to learn about our collection of commercial laminators.
Commercial Laminating Machines
High-volume users that require the utmost in speed and quality need to look no further than our selection of commercial laminating machines. These machines give users the ability to mount up to 1/2″ thick and laminate up to 10 mils, at speeds up to 65′ per minute. Since this collection of machines is specifically geared toward the commercial market, they also offer a number of more advanced features, such as single-sided laminating, high-speed automatic cutting and feeding, and footage counters.
In the commercial laminators category, the Ledco HD25 Workhorse 25″ roll laminator is amongst the most popular models. Below is an overview of some of the many features the HD25 offers:
Heat Control: Intelligent heat controllers learn to anticipate the heat demand of each job
Built-In Retractable Slitters: Yes
Feed Tray: Yes
Power Requirements: 220v, 20A
Warranty: Two Years Parts & Labor
The Ledco HD25 Workhorse 25″ roll laminator has a robust selection of features at a price that makes it an attractive option to almost any commercial user. It also has a number of optional features that can be added at the time of purchase to make it even more productive, such as pressure sensitive take-up rollers, a scrap rewinder and a utility stand. If you are part of a print shop, in-plant graphics department or other high-volume production environment looking to purchase a roll laminator, be sure to take a look at the HD25, as well as our other reliable commercial laminators.
In Review
From standard-sized sheets to oversized posters and signage, roll laminators provide an excellent solution to nearly all laminating needs. They give businesses the ability to create durable and attractive signs, menus and other promotional materials on-site, and with a lower supply cost than that of pouch laminators. Because roll laminators are available at a wide range of price points and offer a plethora of advanced features, it is worth investing a little extra time and effort to learn about the strengths and weaknesses of the various models that you are interested in before making a purchase.
