Laminators bond layers of materials together. These can be plastic films on glass, wood, or other substrates. Laminators can be hydraulic platen presses, roll laminators and large, continuous roll laminating systems. Laminators can be hot or cold laminators depending on the application needed and the materials used.
Desktop laminators are frequently used for making badges or identification cards, report covers, and signs. They encapsulate layers of material in plastic and use a plastic pouch or a plastic laminating sheet. Other laminators use a roll laminator, which can take a continuous roll of film or plastic. Laminators apply film to a variety of materials like copper, stainless steel, brass and even printed circuit boards (PCBs).
Some laminators apply protective materials to fabrics providing water-proofing, ultraviolet (UV) light resistance, and durability. Fabric laminating bonds a layer of vinyl to fabric, but may use polyester and polyurethane. These can be breathable or non-breathable; it depends on the application. Application include variety of footwear and apparel for sports, strong and durable barrier fabrics laminated with rubber or nylon.