Introductory Note This section is a stripped down summary of the fundamentals of of mounting and laminating. Most topics in this section are discussed in greater detail elsewhere in the Text Book. Definition of basic processes: Finishing consists of two basic processes: Laminating a printed graphic on one or both sides with a plastic film Mounting a graphic to a rigid or semi-rigid mounting board or substrate There are any number of combinations and variations of these two operations, most of which will be covered in the course of this textbook. Functions of mounting and laminating: Although graphics finishing is often associated with protecting images, it also serves many other purposes. Protection from moisture, abrasion, handling or contaminates Provide a new finish or texture Enhance color by improving image "pop" Enhance aesthetics or reduce glare Increase rigidity to improve display or handling characteristics< Increase image opacity Other finishing processes are really fabrication techniques that allow you to create special products such as floor graphics, banner stand graphics or magnetic presentation boards. Finishing Components The following materials are used in mounting and laminating. Overlaminates: Overlaminates or laminating films are clear plastic films of varying thickness, coated on one side with an adhesive layer. They are usually applied to the face (or face and back) of a graphic image using a laminator or heat press. Factors affecting the performance of the overlaminate are: type of adhesive other adhesive attributes type of polymer (plastic) thickness finish ...and others. Selection of the appropriate overlaminate is essential to the success of the job. Mounting Adhesives Used to bond graphics to a mounting board or other rigid or semi-rigid substrates. Mounting adhesives are categorized by: type of adhesive other adhesive properties carrier/structure Selection of the appropriate mounting adhesive is essential to the success of the job. Backing and Specialty Films Special films fall into a variety of categories and perform a wide range of functions. Backing films are used to provide extra protection against moisture, additional rigidity and additional opacity. Diffuser films are used with images printed on clear films in order to allow them to be used in backlit applications. Second surface films are printable on the "back", so that the image shows through the film. Mounting Substrates A mounting substrate is any type of rigid or semi-rigid material to which a graphic image is adhered. Mounting provides protection, facilitates installation and improves aesthetics. Selection of the right mounting substrate as well as a compatible mounting adhesive is essential. SEE LISTINGS IN RIGHT HAND COLUMN Link to preparing mounting boards Printable Substrates Although the substrate or media used to print a graphic is not technically a finishing material, it is an important component in the job. Almost any flexible graphics substrate or media may be laminated, but the type of media should be taken into account when choosing mounting and laminating materials. The printing method (inkjet, electrostatic, blueprinting, screen printing, etc) is also a key factor in selecting materials. For example, heat-sensitive graphics should not be used with thermal laminates. Types of Laminators The simplest classification of laminator is: with heat or no heat. No Heat Cold Roll Pressure-Sensitive Laminators are not equipped with heat and are suitable only for applying pressure sensitive films and mounting adhesives. With Heat Hot Shoe Laminators: These models are at the lower end of the industrial laminator price range. Heat is applied to the film or adhesive through contact with hot shoes rather than with the rollers. Hot shoe models are usually recommended for thermal films, as well as some cold films. Multi Heat Laminators: Most production level shops are equipped with a multi-heat roller laminator, which allows the processing of virtually any type of film or adhesive. On a multi-heat laminator, heat and pressure are supplied by the main rollers. There is a variety of multi-heat laminators available, with a wide range of features and prices. For more information on laminator features, use the link to Section 4. On to Section 2: All About Overlaminates Copyright © 2006  by Drytac Corporation - All Rights Reserved

IN THIS SECTION: INTRODUCTORY NOTE DEFIINITIONS OF BASIC PROCESSES FUNCTIONS OF MOUNTING AND LAMINATING FINISHING COMPONENTS PRINTABLE SUBSTRATES TYPES OF LAMINATORS             Floor graphics are one form of specialized finishing product.