About Over-Laminates
Lamination adds protection to labels, because you are adding a layer of plastic film over the printed surface to protect the label from external environments, such as abrasion or chemical attack. However, labels printed on Polyonics label materials with the appropriate thermal transfer ribbon usually do NOT require lamination for the labels to easily survive harsh, industrial environments, such as high temperatures, degreasers, caustic, acid, oils, hydraulic fluid, gasoline, and myriad other cleaners and solvents.. Click here for more information about printing on Polyonics label materials, and here for discussion about our proprietary coatings which enhance industrial label durability.
Special applications for laminations
Extreme process or environmental situations may require overlamination of an otherwise very durable label.
- Increased abrasion resistance
- Chemical resistance
- UV resistance
- Resistance to multiple cleaning cycles
- Prevents the ability to make photocopies (Security)
- Protects label in paint and stain applications
Ultra-Abrasion Resistance. Lamination was required in order to identify an automotive chassis before it entered a sandblasting operation, and still use the same barcode information after this process. Lamination with a thick, unique durable film enabled the customer to succeed with this application.
Painting/staining operations. In other applications, a double-lamination is needed to "mask" the label to protect it from a painting process. After the painting is done, the lamination can be peeled away, leaving a pristine label on the product.
Prolonged Outdoor Exposure. Enhanced UV resistance may be necessary for long term outdoor exposure. In response to a specific requirement, we developed a 'SunBlocking' film which absorbs 99.99+% of the destructive UV light, significantly prolonging the lifetime of the label outdoors, even in desert or tropical conditions.
Brand Protection/Product Authentication. Special laminations are also available to help in the fight against counterfeit products, product tampering, product diversion, warranty fraud, and other similar types of criminal activity. Visit PolyonicsProtected, our dedicated website for Brand Protection products and services.
Polyonics currently offers three standard overlaminating film options.
XL-1501- 1 mil Polyimide overlaminate with a 1 mil acrylic adhesive. This non-removable tape is amber in color and rated up to 932°F (500°C).
XL-1502- 2 mil Polyimide laminating film with a 2 mil acrylic adhesive. This non-removable tape is amber in color and rated up to 932°F (500°C).
XL-1561- 2 mil Polyimide laminating film with a 2 mil aggressive acrylic adhesive. This non-removable tape is amber in color and rated up to 800°F (427°C).
If you have special requirements, please contact Polyonics customer service/technical service department. Our in-depth knowledge and technical skill will help you find the optimal cost effective solution for your harsh environment labeling needs.
