ABC Office Educator User Manual

Educator

Laminator

Operation Manual

June 1999

Read all precautions & instructions carefully before

operating laminator

Setup

Instruction

Operation

Lamination

Maintenance

IMPORTANT: Don’t laminate one-of -a-kind documents unless you are sure of your

laminating skills and can afford to damage or ruin the document.

Don’t laminate valuable items such as stamps, baseball cards, autographs or other
collectables because the value of such items can be destroyed by lamination. Collectors
generally value these kinds of items only in their original state.

Remember that you cannot laminate thermal paper, such as typical fax paper, because it
is activated by heat and will turn black. Also, remove paper clips and staples because
they can damage the rubber rollers. Be careful about laminating anything that will be
affected by heat. For example, the colors in crayon drawings may run together or be
smeared, especially if the crayon layer is heavy. Light crayon drawings may not be
affected, but test an expendable sample of any item that may not laminate well.

Table of Contents

1-1 Introduction

1-2 Features and benefits
1-3 Options
1-4 Characteristics
1-5 Principles of operation
1-6 Laminating film

1-7 Warranty

2-1 Unpacking and Inventory
3-1 Product Illustrations & Names of Parts
4-1 Safety Precautions

5-1 Setup & Operation

5-2 Threading the laminator
5-3 Threading diagram
5-4 Laminating
5-5 Recommended temperature settings

5-6 Preventing and solving problems

6-1 Instructions for Options

6-2 Footage counter

6-3 Slitters

7-1 Maintenance

7-2 Cleaning the heat shoes
7-3 Cleaning the rubber rollers
7-4 Lubrication

1-1 Introduction

This laminator is designed to provide quality lamination of a wide range of papers and
materials up to 1/8” thick using film up to 5 mil thick. Common applications include but
are not limited to maps, digital imaging, packaging, posters, instructional aids, signs,
presentation materials, photographs, copies (B&W or color), prints, flyers, promotional
sheets and many other items. Options include footage counter, and a roll feed.

To assure the best performance from your new laminator, please follow the safety,
installation, operation, and maintenance instructions in this manual. Read the manual
before using the laminator, keep the manual with the machine, and periodically review
the instructions. The manual also contains warranty and parts information.

The international “HOT” warning symbol will be placed on the appropriate
areas of each laminator.

We take this opportunity to thank you for selecting the laminator and to assure you of our
commitment to your satisfaction with our products.

As you unpack your new laminator, please complete the following information. Always
have this information ready when calling.

Dealer where purchased____________________________________________________

Installation Date___________ Serial #___________________ (back of the laminator)

• WARNING: High temperatures are present and care should be exercised in

operating the laminator. The laminator should not be operated without the
plexiglass safety shield.

Ledco, Inc

4265 North Main Street

Hemlock, NY 14466

Web: ledcoinc.com

Fax: [phone]

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

1-2 Features & Benefits

Your new laminator has several standard features that set it apart from other models.

• The clear safety shield keeps fingers away from the head shoes and laminating rollers

while allowing you to see your work.

• The easily accessible heat control permits the use of many different types of thermal

laminating film from 1.5 to 5 mil thick.

• Ease of cleaning. The silicone rubber rollers and the Teflon-coated heat shoes of the

laminator should be cleaned regularly

• Tension control knobs are built into both supply roll mandrels so that wrinkles and

curling in the film can be elimated.

• Ease of maintenance. The Educator is made to last, however, some items on a

laminator do wear out. Even the high-quality silicone rubber used in the rollers will
lose flexibility over time. Extensive use may wear out the rollers on an operator may
cut a roller by accident. Rollers and other key parts can be changed quickly without
disassembling the frame.

• Reverse can be invaluable at times to help avoid problems or clear misfeeds.

• Silicone rubber laminating rollers are flexible enough to provide good edge seal and

firm enough to offer a good surface seal. A high silicone content insures a much
longer average roller life. They can accommodate poster board or other materials up
to 1/8” thick.

• Very strong steel cores prevent roller flexing and insure uniform pressure across the

width of the laminate, giving you the best quality lamination available in medium­duty commercial machine.

• Zippy safety cutter is shipped with the laminator to allow quick and easy cutting and

trimming of the lamination web.

• Removable power cord prevents unauthorized usage without locking away the whole

machine.

• 100% made in the U.S.A.

1-3 Options

There are several options available to make the Educator more versatile.

• Footage counter. This device can be reset to measure film usage in feet. Also

available in a metric version. The footage counter and slitters will not fit on the
machine together.

• Slitters can automatically cut away side scrap which can greatly reduce the amount of

time needed to trim your work. Most Educator-class laminators do not have slitters
available. The slitter knives can be completely retracted into their holders when not
in use.

• Right side feed guide to go with the standard left side guide and feed on sheet at a

time with greater accuracy or feed two sheets at a time in alignment with each other.

• The dust cover will help keep the machine clean while not in use.

1-4 Specifications

Laminating Width: up to 25”

Speed: 5 FPM

Maximum Film Roll Diameter: 6”

Maximum Film Gauge: 5 Mil

Maximum laminating thickness: 1/8”

Dimensions: 37 L x 11 H x 16 W

Shipping Dimensions: 37 L x 17 H x 18 W

Weight/Shipping Weight: 76/84 lb.

Electrical: 110 V (220 optional)
1560 watts
15 amps

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

1-5 Principles of Operation

The laminator operates by pulling film with a thermally activated adhesive over a heat
source and into a set of laminating rollers. Film from a supply roll passes over heat shoes
to activate a polyethylene adhesive layer on the film. It then passes through rubber
rollers to apply pressure and bond the film to the item being laminated. The film’s
adhesive is pressed into the ink and fibers on the surface of the paper.

The strength of the lamination bond can be checked by cutting a large “X” on the surface
of a laminated sample with a sharp blade. Use the tip of the blade to pry up one corner of
the “X”. Grab that corner and pull up the film. Ink and/or paper fibers coming up with
the layer of film indicates a good adhesive bond.

If the film comes up too easily, with no ink or paper, the lamination was probably done at
too low a temperature. Check the instructions that may have come with your laminating
film and/or the lamination chart in section 5-5.

Please note that when doing X-test on glossy (coated) paper, a good X-test will pull up
ink only. The film should not come up easily. When laminating material that is not
glossy (uncoated), the paper is often more fibrous and a good X-test will yield ink and
paper fibers coming up with the film.

1-6 Laminating Film

Most thermal laminating film consists of two layers: a base of polyester and an adhesive
layer of polyethylene. The polyester layer forms the harder outer surface of the film and
does not melt at laminating temperature. It provides rigidity and protection for your
laminated items. The greater the polyester content, the higher the level of protection,
rigidity and luster. The polyethylene layer melts at laminating temperature and bonds the
film onto the subject material under the pressure of the laminating rollers. As an X-test
demonstrates, the adhesive is pressed into the paper and fills irregularities in the surface.

The proportion of polyester and polyethylene in a film is usually described with numbers.
For example a “1-2” film consists of one mil of polyester and two mils of polyethylene.
The first number refers to the base layer. The second number refers to the adhesive layer.
A mil is 1/1000 of an inch.

Since polyester is the more costly of the two types of plastic generally used in laminating
film, a “3-2” film will cost more than a “2-3” film. Both are 5–mil films but the “3-2”
version will seem a little thicker on a piece of laminated material because it will be
slightly stiffer. Thermal laminating films are available in many different base/adhesive
combinations. Five-mil film, for example 1-4, 2-3, 3-2, and 4-1 combinations.

In the US laminating trade, the generally accepted practice is to describe two-sided
lamination, or encapsulation, by the thickness of one layer of film. For example, “3-mil

lamination” should refer to lamination with two layers of 3-mil film. If you are buying or
selling lamination film or lamination service, please make sure both parties understand
the film descriptions being used.

There is a huge variety of thermal laminating films available to suit many different kinds
of application. Here are some of the more commonly used “special” film types or film
additives:

• Film with low-melt adhesives, also known as co-polymer films; these often have

better clarity and are less likely to curl or ripple.

• Matte films to eliminate glare or to accept printing or accept printing or writing; many

suppliers offer films with glossy and matte (non-glare) finishes.

Rolls of film may be purchased in different widths. The size of the laminator is the only
limitation to the width of the film rolls you can use. The Educator can use 4, 12, 18, or
25 inch rolls. Make sure the upper and lower roll widths are the same, and are aligned
with each other.

Rolls are also produced with different lengths of film on a roll (250’, 500’, 1000’). The
Educator will easily accommodate film rolls up to 6” diameter.

When installing film, always center the rolls if film on the supply roll mandrels so the
core grippers engage the cardboard core. Look for the score marks around the supply rill
mandrels to aid in aligning the top and bottom rolls.

We recommend 3-mil film for the most common applications, including posters, signs or
instructional aids. The 3-mil film provides better protection, more rigidity, and a more
lustrous appearance than 1.5-mil film. Five mil film is suggested for those applications
that need the most protection and rigidity.

Lamination with 1.5-mil film can sometimes present problems because the film is so thin
it loses heat easily. It sounds backwards, but 1.5-mil film has to be run at a higher
temperature than a 3-mil film with the same adhesive. The higher temperature
compensates for the faster rate of heat loss during lamination. A standard 3-mil film is
applied at 280°F, while a standard 1.5-mil film must be applied at 310°F. Even when

applied at 310°F, a 1.5-mil film is still more likely to delaminate later.

If the item being laminated is fairly thick, it will pull heat from the film. This will lower
the temperature of the 1.5-mil film and prevent it from sticking properly. When
laminating thick items with standard 1.5-mil film, it may be necessary to raise the
temperature to 330°F or 340°F. Do not use any higher temperature for any film than is
needed to get an acceptable degree of adhesion, as measured by an X-test. Remember
there are low-temperature films that should run at much lower temperatures than those
cited in this example. (see the chart on film operating temperatures.)

Rolls of film are sometimes spliced. Most film suppliers will mark a splice with colored
tape. This way, you can see the splice as a “dash” of color on either end of the roll. If

you spot a spliced roll in advance, you can put it on the top supply roll mandrel in order
to see the splice coming more easily avoid putting material under the splice. Or you
could put it on the bottom roll if you plan to be laminating items that will never be seen
from the back side.

1-7 Warranty

This laminator is guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship for a period of
two years after date of shipment. Defective parts will be replaced without cost within the
warranty period, provided the laminator has not been abused, altered or operated contrary
to instructions. Ledco, Inc. Shall not be liable for any alterations or repairs except those
made with its written consent.

This obligation under warranty shall not extend to the following:

• The adjustment or replacement of parts which are the normal responsibility of the

owner. For example, rubber rollers, heat shoe coatings, scratched or chipped paint,
loose fasteners (screws, nuts, etc.), or other items that show wear under normal use;
i.e. “normal wear parts”.

• Normal operating adjustments to heat, speed, tension, etc.

• Parts that are not manufactured by Ledco, Inc. If the individual manufacture warrants

these items, their warranty is, in turn, passed on to the original purchaser of the
laminator. Ledco, Inc. does not incur any obligation or liability as a result of the
warranties that are the sole responsibility of the appropriate individual manufacturer.

Any laminator that provides defective during the warranty period may be returned to
Ledco, Inc. unless it is decided that the necessary repairs can be made during a service
call. Notice of the defect should be submitted in writing or by phone to Ledco before any
steps are taken to repair or return the machine. Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]

If the machine is returned, the following should accompany it.

• Customer name, address and phone number.

• Written particulars regarding the malfunction.

• Date of installation.

• Serial number of machine.

• All returns must have a return authorization number on the outside

of the shipping container. Send all returned equipment freight
PREPAID to: Ledco, Inc., 4265 North Main Street, Hemlock, NY 14466:
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] Email: [e-mail]

If your machine needs servicing after the warranty has expired, please contact your
dealer. Ledco, Inc. does offer technical support if your dealer is unable to assist.

This warranty is expressly in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied, including
the warranties of Merchantability and Fitness For Use and of all other obligation or

liabilities of Ledco, Inc. Said company neither assumes nor authorizes any other person
to assume it for any other obligation or liability in connection with the sale of this
laminator except as provided for above.

Further, this warranty will not apply to any machine or part thereof which has been
damaged as a result of an accident or as a result of the abuse, misuse, or neglect of the
machine. The warranty is also void if the laminator has been altered or repaired by any
other than an authorized repair facility or dealer.

2-1 Unpacking and Inventory

Except for the supply roll mandrels and feed tray the laminator is assembled at the
factory. Upon arrival, inspect the unit immediately and thoroughly using the packaging
list that accompanies the shipment. Please follow these steps to correct any problem with
your shipment. Ledco, Inc. cannot accept any responsibility for damage or loss unless
you notify us within ten days of receipt of shipment and follow these procedures:

Breakage or Damage: It is imperative that any shipping damage is reported and a
claim is filed with the delivering carrier immediately upon receipt of damaged
shipment. The procedure for reporting damage depends on the method of shipment.
Please note damage on the bill of landing.

Freight, Express, or Truck Delivery: According to the contract terms and conditions of

the carrier, the responsibility of the shipper ends at the time and place of shipment. The
carrier then assumes full responsibility for the shipment.

1. Notify Ledco IMMEDIATELY.

2. Hold damaged goods with container and packing for inspection by the examining
agent. Ledco will arrange the inspection.

3. DO NOT RETURN ANY GOODS TO LEDCO PRIOR TO
AUTHORIZATION BY LEDCO.

4. Submit a copy of the inspector’s report to Ledco. Ledco will file the claim with
the carrier. Ledco will replace your machinery if necessary. You will be credited
for the damaged machinery when the claim is processed.

Shortage:

1. Check the packing list notations. The apparent shortage may have been marked
as an intentional short-shipped (back-ordered) item.

2. Reinspect the container and packing material, particularly for smaller items.

3. Make certain that unauthorized personnel prior to complete unpacking did not
remove the item and inventory.

4. Call us and send immediate written notification of the shortage.

Incorrect Shipment:

1. If the material you receive does not correspond with your order, notify Ledco
immediately. Include the order number and item(s).

2. Hold item(s) until return instructions are received.

Returns: DO NOT RETURN DAMAGED OR INCORRECT ITEMS UNTIL YOU
HAVE RECEIVED SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS AND AN AUTHORIZATION
NUMBER FROM LEDCO.

3-1 Product Illustrations & Names of Parts

The photos below and on the following pages identify major components and operating
controls. Refer to them as you study the installation, operating and maintenance
procedures described in this manual.