rollers are essential for an uninterrupted roll-to-roll lamination workflow, allowing for high productivity and minimised wastage. Papergraphics adds that temperature management is paramount. In professional laminators, accurate heat control keeps the temperature consistent throughout the process, which the supplier says is a feature often absent in cheaper alternatives. In addition, Papergraphics advises looking for pre-programmed systems as they can eliminate the guesswork and help to ensure consistency and quality of output. As for what Papergraphics has on offer, Vaughan says its most popular machine is the Flexa EasyLite compact laminator. He explains: “It’s a high-quality, well-built, and cost-effective machine, designed for professional large-format lamination, mounting, and encapsulation. We find it easy to use and reliable, so it's perfect for most everyday print finishing needs. “The Flexa EasyLite can also be reconfigured and upgraded to a more versatile five-shaft system as your business grows. It is a stunningly efficient piece of equipment that can load material in seconds, minimise silvering, mount images on panels, and even apply double-sided adhesive films and application tapes.” As referenced earlier, Papergraphics also supplies Stickybits, which Vaughan says users need to add a profitable print-finishing service to your business. Stickybits is Papergraphics’ brand of print finishing media. “This range not only offers a wide range of finishes, including exceptionally glossy, matt, satin anti-slip, anti-graffiti and textured crystal, but it’s also compatible with a wide array of ink technologies, including aqueous, eco-solvent, latex, and the notoriously challenging UV-curable inks,” Vaughan explains, adding: “From indoor to outdoor applications, then the Papergraphics Stickybits range has you covered.” Crucial Component Another supplier in this market is Your Print Specialists (YPS), which offers a range of print kit. Managing director Georgia Brown says laminating forms an important part of the print process offering durability, visual appeal, and versatility. As such, it is crucial any lamination equipment purchased by a sign-maker or wide-format printer meets the needs of the company and that the output also meets the needs of their customer. “As print speeds and technology advances, lamination can become a production bottleneck, so having equipment that is efficient is an absolute must,” Brown says, adding: “A company looking to invest in a laminator should choose one that can handle the maximum width of the prints that they typically work with. “Adjustable settings such as speed, pressure, and heat can help automate the lamination process and reduce turnaround times. A laminator that is easy to use will reduce the learning curve for the operator and improve the usability of the equipment. Ensuring the laminator can handle a variety of substrates and thicknesses increases versatility and can widen the product portfolio. “An investment in a laminator should align with the company’s workflow, materials, and business goals. Taking the time to evaluate these factors and match them to the equipment in question will help ensure that the investment enhances the sign-maker’s and printer’s capabilities.” YPS is the exclusive distributor for Moditech EWS Electronic Work Stations within the UK. Billed as being “more than a laminator”, the EWS is marketed as a complete workstation solution for the application and lamination of a range of substrates. Fully electronic, the EWS features a table that is height adjustable, which YPS says makes it easy to work on for different staff members with a maximum 25-degree tilt and backlit available, depending on the job in hand. The roller is also electronically controlled, which allows for even and accurate production. “This means there is also less potential to damage the prints therefore reducing waste and costs and maximising profitability,” Brown explains, adding: “The design of the EWS offers a great user experience and maximum productivity thanks to its ability to laminate as well as mount. The Moditech EWS is an expertly designed range with a focus on quality, flexibility, and operator wellbeing. Brown explains that investing in a laminating and application table can be a great way to enter the signage market, with a smaller outlay required when compared to a flatbed printer. “An increase in efficiency can allow for more work and projects to be undertaken,” Brown says, adding: Beyond preservation, lamination elevates the look, durability, and versatility of the printed material it protects. “As the print technology and industry evolves, the role of lamination remains steadfast so investing in quality lamination equipment is imperative. It contributes to the overall quality of the services provided, client satisfaction, and business success.” Brown’s closing comments offer an apt conclusion to this feature; lamination is much more than simply protecting a piece of work, it offers sign-makers and wide-format printers the chance to make printed work really shine. New investment in this area could open up all sorts of markets to you and your business. As print speeds and technology advances, lamination can become a production bottleneck, so having equipment that is efficient is an absolute must 51 Issue 249 - October / November 2023 email: news@signlink.co.uk ▲ Available from Your Print Specialists, Moditech EWS Electronic Work Stations are fully electric BACK TO BASICS / LAMINATION EQUIPMENT Moditech EWS Electronic Work Stations feature a table that is height adjustable ►
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