Hot laminating and cold laminating are two different methods of applying adhesive film to a surface.
Hot laminating, also known as heat assist laminating, involves using a hot-roll laminator to apply the adhesive film. The film used in hot laminating has a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and a liner. The laminator heats the film to a temperature of 185 to 195 degrees and applies pressure to bond the film to the surface. The heat helps activate the adhesive, ensuring a strong and durable bond. Hot laminating is commonly used for laminating documents, photographs, and other materials that require a high-quality finish.
Cold laminating, on the other hand, does not require heat. The adhesive film used in cold laminating has a more aggressive adhesive that can be applied with pressure alone. Cold laminating is suitable for materials that may be sensitive to heat or cannot withstand the high temperatures used in hot laminating. It is often used for laminating large format prints, banners, and other materials that do not require a glossy finish.
In summary, the main difference between hot and cold laminating is the method of applying the adhesive film. Hot laminating uses heat to activate the adhesive, while cold laminating relies on pressure alone. The choice between hot and cold laminating depends on the specific requirements of the materials being laminated and the desired finish.