Glossary

Related Terms: Mil, Point, Micrometer

The thickness of paper or laminate. The caliper of paper in the United States is measured in points. The caliper of film laminate is measured in mils. Mils and Points are both the same thickness—1/1000th of an inch. Lamination caliper is measured per side. Two-sided lamination using 5 mil film adds a total of 10 mils or points to the caliper of the sheet.

Related Terms: Encapsulation

A term which refers to the product being totally encased in the laminating film. Generally a border would exist around the product where the top and bottom film layers are bonded together.

Related Terms: Bleed, Encapsulation, Edge Seal, Border

Lamination that is trimmed even with the edge of the finished sheet. Flush trim is best accomplished by laminating a larger parent sheet and then cutting the pieces to final size aftwards.

Related Terms: Curl-Free, Flat, Book Cover

Lay-Flat® is GBC's trademarked name for a nylon based film that allows single sided laminated paper and graphics to adjust to humidity and helps eliminate the curling of laminated books. It is dsigned for applications that include book covers, dust jackets, brochures and magazines. Other companies market similar films under the names D&K Curl-Free® and Transilwrap curl-resistant.

Also known as (PET), the full name for polyester is polyethylene terephthalate film, and scientifically it is a thermoplastic polymer that is biaxially oriented or bubble extruded. It is the most common type of laminate for two-sided laminating, and available typically in mil thicknesses (with adhesive) of 1.5 mil up to 10.0 mil. PET laminate is strong, durable, and scratch resistant. It is available in many finishes including, gloss, satin, matte, velvet (or soft-touch)...

Related Terms: Paperback, Softcover, Book Bind, PUR, EVA, Magazine

A perfect bound book is also referred to as a softcover book or paperback book. The cover is usually made from a thicker cardstock and laminated or coated to protect the book. The pages and cover are glued together at the spine with a strong yet flexible thermal glue. The other three sides of the book are then trimmed as needed to give them clean “perfect” edges.

Related Terms: Dry Erase

Also known as (OPP), is often used in thin film applications for book-covers, posters, and packaging applications. Gloss polypropylene also has characteristics which make it suitable for write-on/wipe-off (Dry-Erase) applications.

Related Terms: Double-Sided Tape; Pressure Sensitive Tape

A peel and stick tape with a release liner used to bond two items. Transfer tapes are commonly used for point-of-sale products, table tents, wall calendars and pocket folders. The tape is machine applied to one surface by TradeLam. The release liner remains on the product until the end user removes it to adhere the first surface to the second surface.