In graphic lamination, choosing the right film is just as important as using the right machinery and settings.
At first glance, materials such as PET and PP (BOPP) may appear very similar, but their properties and behaviour during lamination differ significantly.
Understanding these factors enables you to choose the most suitable option depending on the type of work, the desired finish and the requirements of the final product.
¿What is PP or BOPP film?
PP (polypropylene), commonly used in its BOPP form — biaxially oriented polypropylene —, is one of the most widely used films in the graphic arts sector.
Its popularity is mainly due to its versatility, light weight and good value for money. These characteristics make it a suitable solution for a wide variety of laminating jobs, particularly in production runs where a high-quality finish is required whilst maintaining high efficiency.
Furthermore, its flexibility makes it easy to adapt to a wide range of graphic applications and types of printed material.
What properties does PET film offer?
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is particularly notable for offering greater rigidity, dimensional stability and heat resistance.
These properties may be of particular interest when the laminated product requires greater consistency or needs to withstand more demanding conditions.
Compared with BOPP, PET feels stiffer and more stable, making it an alternative worth considering for certain applications where the material’s mechanical properties are a key factor.
PET vs BOPP: key differences
Although there is no single film that is best for all applications, there are certain characteristics that can help you make a decision.
BOPP
● Greater lightness and flexibility.● Excellent balance between performance and cost.● Great versatility for graphic lamination work.● One of the most widely used options in the sector.
PET
● Greater rigidity.● Improved dimensional stability.● Greater resistance to high temperatures.● Suitable for applications requiring greater material consistency.
Which film should you choose for lamination: PET or BOPP?
The answer will always depend on the end use.
If we are looking for versatility, lightness and efficiency in everyday graphic design work, BOPP can be an excellent choice. On the other hand, when we need greater rigidity, stability or heat resistance, PET can offer additional benefits.
The choice of film should form part of the set of decisions that determine high-quality professional lamination, alongside factors such as temperature, pressure, operating speed, the substrate used and the characteristics of the laminator.
At TAULER Laminating Tech, we strive to provide efficient, reliable lamination processes tailored to the needs of the graphics industry. You can find out more about our range of professional laminators or view this comparison within our TAULER TECH series.
Because choosing the right film is also part of a good lamination process.
