Laminating film is a clear plastic sheet that protects printed paper or board from fading, dust and other blemishes. There are several different kinds of laminating film, ranging in thickness and properties. The thickest and most rigid film is usually a 10 mil laminate, but it can be found in thinner options as well. This type of film is often used for items that will not be folded, like ID badges or reference sheets.
Thin and flexible films are typically 1.5 or 3 mil. They provide a low-cost option for laminated pieces that are constructed of heavy cardstock, like business cards and flash card sets. These are also great for applications that require a lot of folding, such as a restaurant menu or wall poster. The best way to determine which type of film is right for your application is to speak with an expert. They can help you determine the thickness of your project and suggest the best film for it. Some laminates also come in a "cold" option that can be applied with pressure, instead of heat. This can be a good solution for less expensive equipment, and is also easier to operate than hot laminators. Drylam's ASAP line of laminating film is designed to bond with a specific type of digital printing surface that traditional co-polymer film may have trouble adhering to: toner-based print engines that contain fuser oils and glycol. Other materials are available, including a newer plastic called Bi-axially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP). It is generally used for high-quality products that need to stand up to harsh conditions and have excellent clarity.