Tips for buying a laminating machine
Whether it is being bought for home or business use, a laminating machine represents a considerable investment. It therefore makes sense to choose it carefully, and only commit cash after a full consideration of the features that the machine offers. There is such a wide range of needs among buyers, that it is not possible just to point at the ‘most popular’ laminating machines UK buyers plump for, and then follow the crowd. A machine that is good for other people may not suit you.
Instead, start by thinking about the use you will put the machine to. Then look for a machine that fits your needs.
Some of the things you should consider before purchasing a laminating machine include:
Width and size of the laminator: This is one of the most fundamental decisions you need to make. As such, it requires careful consideration. Larger, wider laminators tend to cost more, so people often make the mistake of starting off with a small machine. They then find it is too small for their needs, and have to invest in a second machine.
In the long run, it is more cost effective to make your first machine the largest size you are likely to need. A good rule of thumb is to choose a machine that, at the very least, can laminate the widest material your printer can print. This method is not foolproof - you may one day want to laminate items, such as posters, that you have bought rather than printed. But it is a good start.
The pressure the machine can exert: Different laminating machines exert different amounts of pressure. Being aware of this is important, as pressure is an integral part of the laminating process. This particularly applies if you will be using the machine for cold lamination, for thicker than average documents, or for mounting. Before making a purchase, ask how much pressure the machine applies, how that pressure is generated, and what document, film (or backing) thicknesses it is suitable for. Cheaper laminating machines use spring loads for pressure, which is an important limiting factor on their effectiveness. More advanced machines use an air compressor, which is a much more powerful method of pressure generation.
Safety: Like all industrial equipment, if used carelessly laminating machines UK can cause injury. A danger to be particularly aware of is catching clothing in the rollers. When choosing a machine, try to get one with optical sensors that cut off the power to the rollers if something other than a print gets too close. A laminator with an emergency button is also a good idea, in case an item does ever get caught.
How the laminator is fed: The way in which prints are fed into the laminator can affect the risk of their being damaged. Once inside the machine, if a print jams it cannot be removed without damaging it. To prevent this, choose a machine that straightens prints before they get to the rollers, for example by using a vacuum plate.
Once you have drawn up a short list of machines that seem to fit your needs, try to see them being demonstrated before choosing. Better still, try to get the chance to use it yourself. The more you research the machine you are planning to buy, the more likely it is to give you years of successful laminating.
