Expand Your Services Another manufacturer in this market is Mimaki, which is represented in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services as its exclusive distributor. Andrew Edwards, partner sales manager for sign and graphics at Hybrid, says lamination goes far beyond protection and can enhance the visual and functional quality of a print. “With systems like the Mimaki LA-160W, users can alter surface finishes, switching between gloss and matte to suit different applications and create a more cohesive look,” Edwards says, adding: “For example, at exhibitions where bright lighting is common, a matte lamination would be the preferred choice to reduce glare and prevent distracting reflections. “Lamination also adds rigidity, making prints more durable and suitable for use in display systems, floor graphics, and vehicle wraps. Additionally, laminates with textures or anti-slip properties open up further creative and safety-conscious possibilities, expanding the range of services a printshop can offer.” Going into further detail on the Mimaki LA-160W, Edwards says that this has become a “go-to choice for new and established businesses wanting a futureproof solution that delivers consistent results”. The machine has a maximum lamination speed of up to 7.5m/minute and can handle prints up to 1.6m wide. “It is commonly chosen for high-impact applications like exhibition graphics, floor decals, vehicle wraps, and retail displays, where durability and finish quality really matter,” Edwards comments, continuing: “It handles a wide range of laminates, including flexible cast vinyl and textured films, and are engineered for speed, simplicity, and consistent results.” Leading on from this, Edwards speaks about the importance of investing in quality kit for lamination. He says this choice is “crucial”, explaining that it can have a lasting impact on efficiency and output quality. Edwards adds as lamination is often a long-term investment, build quality and reliability should be top priorities when choosing a machine. “A high-performance machine like the Mimaki LA-160W tackles common lamination issues such as silvering by applying controlled heat, up to 60°C, for a smooth, bubble-free finish,” he says, adding: “Features like support for specialist materials, ease of use, and single-operator handling make a big difference in day-to-day production.” Match Made in Heaven Switching the focus to materials, Soyang Europe has a host of options on offer. Sales director, Oliver Mashiter says in addition to protecting pieces they lamination materials can add more value to applications. He offers the example of the floor graphics market, saying certain materials carry an anti-slip rating, meaning when applied to printed floor pieces they will help prevent people from slipping, no matter what the weather conditions are like or where the piece is installed. Machines that offer modularity, intuitive controls, and multifunctionality, such as roll-fed and flatbed capabilities, can streamline operations and adapt to a range of production needs ▼ Vivid’s Easymount Hybrid solution is an allin-one roll-fed laminator and flatbed applicator LAMINATION EQUIPMENT | ROB FLETCHER 86 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 260 - August / September 2025
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