Ledco Professor 27 User manual

READ ALL PRECAUTIONS & INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
BEFORE OPERATING LAMINATOR
Setup
Instruction
Operation
Lamination
Maintenance
PROFESSOR 27
Laminator/Mounter
Operation Manual
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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 collectibles
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.
IMPORTANT: Éviter de plastifier du papier thermosensible, comme le papier de télécopieur,
pusqu’ll noircira sous l’effet de la chaleur, et enlever les trombones et les agrafes gul risquent
d’endommager les rouleaux de caoutchouc. Prendre certaines précautions avant de plastifier des
articles susceptibles de réagir à la chaleur comme les dessins au pastel dont les couleurs baver et se
mélanger, surtout si la couche de pastel est épaisse. Les pastels en couche mince peuvent ne pas
réagir, mais, en cas de doute, il est préférable de faire un essai avec un échantillon perdu.
Ne pas plastifier les documents importants dont il n’existe qu’un seul exemplaire, à moins de bien
malitriser la technique de plastification.
Ne pas plastifier non plus les articles de collection comme les trimbres, les cartes de baseball, les
autographes ou autres, qui peuvent perdre leur valeur pour les collectionneurs s’ils ne sont plus
dans leur état d’origine.
IMPORTANTE: Recuerde que no puede laminar papel térmico, tal como el papel de fax tipico, ya
que es activado por el calor y se tornará negro. Retire también cualquier sujeta-papeles o grapa,
puesto que pueden danar los rodillos de goma. Evite laminar cosas sensibles al calor, por ejemplo,
los colores de dibujos hechos en lápiz de pastel pueden no ser afectados, pero ensaye con alguna
muestra descartable, en los ìtemes que podrían no laminarse bien.
No lamine ningún documento único, a no ser que esté muy seguro de sus habilidades de laminador
y pueda permitirse arruinar el documento.
No lamine artículos de valor, como estampillas, tarjetas de béisbol, autógrafos, u otros
coleccionables, ya que su valor puede ser destruido por la laminación. En general, las
coleccionistas valoran este tipo de artículo en su estado original.
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***VERY IMPORTANT***
Please read and observe the following:
Addendum to LEDCO 27” Professor Laminator Manual
FANS
⇒Always turn the fans off when the machine is idle.
⇒Use the fans only with 3 mil or thicker film.
⇒Refer to page 17, section 5-1 in your Operator’s
Manual.
TEMPERATURES
⇒Start with the heat set at least 20 degrees below
the lowest end of the temperature spectrum
appropriate for the film you are using, and
increase the heat ( in small increments ) as
needed for acceptable adhesion.
oFor example - if a film manufacturer suggests
running the film between 220-250 F, start at 210F or
slightly lower.
⇒Refer to page 22, section 5-5 in your Operator’s
Manual.
HEAT SETTING
⇒Verify that your 27” Professor is set on the
Fahrenheit heat setting prior to running the unit.
⇒Refer to page 16, section 5-1 in the Operator’s
Manual.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1-1 INTRODUCTION
1-2 Features and benefits
1-3 Specifications
1-4 Principles of operation
1-5 Laminating film
1-6 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 Film Threading Diagram
5-4 Laminating
5-5 Recommended temperature settings
5-6 Pouch / mounting board lamination
5-7 Preventing and solving problems
6-1 MAINTENANCE
6-2 General cleaning
6-3 Cleaning the rubber rollers
6-4 Lubrication
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1-1 INTRODUCTION
This laminator is designed to provide quality lamination of a wide range of papers and materials up to
3\16-inch thick using film up to ten 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.
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.
Le symbole international de mise en garde “CHALEUR EXTREME” sera apposé aux
endroits appropries des machines a plastifier thermiques.
El simbolo internacional de advertencia “CALIENTE” serà fijado en los lugares
apropriados, en el plastificador.
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 # ______________________ (located at the back of the laminator, next to the power connector)
WARNING: High temperatures are present and care should be exercised in operating
the laminator.
MISE EN GARDE: La machine à plastifier produit beaucoup de chaleur et on doit l’utiliser
avec prudence.
ADVERTENCIA: El plastificador produce temperaturas muy altas; tenga cuidado al
utilizaro.
WARNING: The laminator can not be operated without the plexiglass safety shield.
MISE EN GARDE: Ne pas utiliser la machine à plastifier sans son écran protecteur en
plexiglass.
ADVERTENCIA: No utilice el plastificado sin tener el protector de plexiglass en su lugar.
Ledco, Inc.
4265 North Main Street Fax [phone]
Hemlock, NY 14466 Phone [phone]
www.ledcoinc.com
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1-2 FEATURES & BENEFITS
Your new laminator has several standard features that set it apart from other models.
•Variable speed The laminator operates at any speed up to 15 feet per minute. Thicker films are
generally applied better at mid-range to lower speeds, while 1.5 mil film should be applied at mid-
range to higher speeds.
•LCD temperature display makes it easy to set and maintain the correct temperature. The
indicator light inside the heat switch comes on as the machine warms up. At set temperature the
indicator light turns off.
•Simple controls Conveniently placed switches provide a compact, reliable control pad. Icons and
international symbols are used for controls and safety warnings.
•Easy threading Threading can be the most difficult aspect of using a laminator, so the Professor
27 has built in threading aids. Once the upper and lower webs of film have been threaded through
the machine, bottom idler threading is automatic when the operator closes the feed tray into it’s
operating position.
•Forced air-cooling This allows laminating with thicker films. Without a cooling system, thicker
films will warp or ripple because they are still too hot when they come out the back of the
laminator. The Professor 27 has a more effective cooling system than any other machine in its
class and should be turned off after completing each laminating run ( group of items being
laminated ) to prevent excessive cooling of the heat rollers.
•Ease of cleaning The silicone rubber rollers of the laminator should be cleaned regularly.
•Attached safety shield/safety switch The polycarbonate shield is clear so operators can see their
work. It’s fixed to the machine and configured with an integral safety switch so the laminator will
not operate unless it is in the down and locked position .
•Lamination pressure The rubber rollers are spring-loaded and preset to ensure correct and even
lamination pressure.
•Supply roll tension controls Supply roll tension is easy to adjust by simply tightening or
loosening the tension control knobs on the supply roll mandrels.
•Ease of maintenance The Professor 27 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, or an operator may cut a roller by accident
•Reverse can be invaluable at times to help avoid problems or clear misfeeds.
•Silicone rubber laminating rollers are flexible enough to provide a good edge seal and firm
enough to offer a good surface seal. A high silicone content insures a much longer average roller
life.
•Removable power cord prevents unauthorized usage without locking away the whole machine.
•100% Made in the U.S.A
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1-3 SPECIFICATIONS
Laminating Width up to 27”
Speed 0-15FPM
Laminating roll diameter 2 7/8”
Maximum film gauge 10mil
Maximum laminating thickness 3/16”
Dimensions 35L 14H 16W
Shipping dimensions 42L 18H 18W
Weight / shipping weight 93/105 lb.
Electrical 110V
1560 watts
15 amps
* specifications are subject to change without notice
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1-4 PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
The laminator operates by pulling film with a thermally activated adhesive over a heated set of
laminating rollers. Film from a supply roll passes over heat rollers to activate a polyethylene adhesive
layer on the film. Then, as it passes through the heated rubber rollers they 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 temperature chart in section 5-5.
Please note that when doing an 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.
1-5 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, can be found
in 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 laminating film or lamination
services, 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:
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•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 writing; many suppliers offer films with both
glossy and matte (non-glare) finishes
•film with UV inhibitors to protect colors in the laminated material from fading in sunlight
•thermal film that has a pressure-sensitive adhesive and a release liner on its outer side; for
example, a poster with this material laminated on the back could easily be mounted without
fasteners or tape
•high clarity films; some of these have a protective liner on the top outer surface… after a piece of
material has been laminated, trimmed, packed, and shipped, the person using the material can
remove the protective liner revealing a surface perfectly free of dust, scratches or abrasion
•opaque or colored films for the back side of a lamination; these can form a border for a laminated
piece
•iridescent clear films for special visual effects
•permanently waterproof films for outdoor, underwater, or special applications; the most common
thermal laminating films are made with water-based primers and will eventually de-laminate if
continually exposed to water or weather; truly waterproof films are made with special primers
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 Professor 27 can use 4, 12, 18, 25, or 27 inch rolls. Make
sure the upper and lower roll widths are the same, and are aligned with each other.
When installing film, always center the rolls of film on the supply roll mandrels so the core grippers
engage the cardboard core
Rolls are also produced with different lengths of film on a roll (250', 500', 1000'). The Professor 27
will easily accommodate film rolls up to a 5" diameter.
We recommend 3-mil film for most common applications, including posters, signs or instructional
aids. The 3-mil film provides better protection, more rigidity, and a more lustrous appearance than1.5-
mil film. Five to ten 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 degrees Fahrenheit, while a standard 1.5-mil film
must be applied at 310 degrees F. Even when applied at 310 degrees 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 or 340 degrees. Do not
8

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 which 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
and 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.
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1-6 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 alternations 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, 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 manufacturer 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 proves 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 the 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
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., and 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.
If you have any questions about this warranty, contact:
Ledco: tel: [phone] •fax: [phone]
10

2-1 UNPACKING AND INVENTORY
Except for the supply roll mandrels the laminator is assembled at the factory. Upon arrival, inspect the
unit immediately and thoroughly using the packing 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 bill of
lading.
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.
11

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 , operation , and maintenance procedures
described in this manual.
Upper Web Idler
Lower Web Idler
Top Supply Roll
Bottom Supply Roll
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Parts Illustrations Cont.
Roll Gap
Control Handle
Heat Display
Forward/Reverse
selector switch
Heat Control Increase
and Decrease Buttons
Heat Switch
Fan Switch
Mode Selector
Switch
Speed Control Dial
(potentiometer)
Heated Roller
Swing Away
Top Cover
Swing Away
Feed Tray
13

Parts Illustrations Cont.
Feed Tray
Twist-lock Cover Latch
Safety Shield
14

15
4-1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
DANGER
1. High temperatures are present and care should be exercised in operating and maintaining the
laminator. Even after the machine has been turned off it will remain hot for an extended period of
time. Contact with hot surfaces may cause burns.
MISE EN GARDE! Etant donneé les températures élevées produites par cette machine à plastifier,
on doit user de prudence lors de son utilisation et de son entretien. Meme une fois l'alimentation
électrique coupée, la machine demeure chaude longtemps. Eviter tout contact avec les surfaces
chaudes, qui peuvent causer des bríllures.
PELIGRO! Hay temperaturas altas aquí y debe tenerse cuidado durante la operación y el
mantenimiento del plastificador. Aún después de haber sido desconectado, el plastificador
permanecerá caliente durante un período prolongado. El contacto con las superficies calientes puede
causar quemaduras.
2. Always make sure the power cord is not placed under the laminator where it might get overheated
from proximity to the bottom heat roller.
On doít éviter que le cordon d'alimentation ne passe sous la machine et soit exposé à la chaleur élevée
produite par le sabot chauffant inférieur.
Asegúrese que el cordón eléctrico nunca esté debajo del plastificador, donde podría ser recalentado
debido a la proximidad de la zapata calefactora inferior.
DANGER
3. The safety shield should remain in the down and locked position any time you are laminating or
mounting.. You may tip the safety shield up while loading the film. Remember the laminator will
not operate unless the safety shield (and integral safety switch) is in the down and locked position.
MISE EN GARDE! L'écran de sécurité doit etre monté sur la machine en tout temps quand elle est
sous tension. On peut relever l'écran pour charger la pellicule. Toujours s'assurer que les rouleaux ne
tournent PAS avant de relever l'écran.
PELIGRO! La pantalla protectora debe quedar fija a la máquina y puesta de manera que la máquina
siempre reciba energia. Puede levantar la pantalla pretectora mientras carga la película. Asegúrese de
que los rodillos NO esté funcionando cuando se saca la pantalla protectora.
DANGER
4. Never operate the laminator with neckties, jewelry, or loose clothing. Tie back long hair. These
items can be caught and be pulled in by the laminator causing serious injury.
MISE EN GARDE! Attacher les cheveux longs et ne jamais porter de cravate, de bijoux ou de
vetements amples quand on utilise la machine à plastifier, qui risqueait de les entrainer et de causer
ainsi des blessures graves.
PELIGRO! Nunca opere el laminador usando corbatas, joyas o ropa holgada. Amárrese el pelo
largo. Estos objectos se pueden enredar en el laminador y causar un dano serio.

5-1 SETUP & OPERATION
With the laminator on an unobstructed, level surface, perform the following checkout before
threading the machine with film.
WARNING: Make sure the power cord is clear of the underside of the machine prior to
operation to avoid overheating the cord.
MISE EN GARDE: S'assurer que le cordon d'alimentation ne passe pas sous la machine,
ce qui l'exposerait à la chaleur élevée produite par le sabot infèrieur.
ADVERTENCIA: Antes de operar la máquina, asegúrese que el cordón electrico no está
debajo de la misma, para evitar el recalentamiento del cordón.
1. Remove any and all packing straps, rubber bands, tape, and plastic ties from the machine.
*NOTE: Save the box and packing.
2. Make sure the heat, fan and drive switches are off before you plug in the machine. The "fan"
and "heat" switches are labeled accordingly. "0" indicates the off position. The drive switch
positions for "forward" and "reverse" are labeled. The reverse position is momentary and
will turn itself off when released. The speed control knob and dial are directly above the
forward/reverse toggle switch and the green fan switch.
3. Plug the machine into a working outlet of at least 15 amps. Plugging in the machine does not
power on any control unless a switch has been left on. Plug in the machine and turn on the
heat. The heat indicator lamp in the heat switch will come on. It will stay on until the
machine has reached set temperature.
To adjust the heat controls:
To raise temperature:
•Press red button once to display set point value screen
•Press red button again to raise set point value
•Hold red button to raise set point value rapidly
•Wait five seconds for actual temperature to be displayed
To lower temperature:
•Press red button once to access set point value screen
•Press blue button to lower set point value
•Hold blue button to decrease set point rapidly
•Wait five seconds for actual temperature to be displayed
To switch from Fahrenheit to Celsius:
•Hold blue button for five seconds
•Use red button to change from degrees F to decrees C
•Wait five second for actual temperature to display
16

4. Always leave the rollers in the clockwise, or “pouch” setting when you turn off the machine.
Rotate the roll gap control handle (large black knob on the right side of the laminator)
counterclockwise, to the closed position, when you are going to thread the machine.
5. Once the heat is turned on, it will stay on until the switch is manually turned off. There is no
automatic shutoff on this machine, except in the case of a blown fuse.
6. When the laminator has reached the set temperature, press the forward drive switch on. The
pull rollers and the laminating rollers should rotate. Insert the white threading card into the
nip (laminating) rollers. Let the threading card pass through the laminating rollers and then
the pull rollers, exiting at the rear of the laminator. Remove the card from the laminate to
save for future use.
7. Return the forward drive switch to the off/neutral position switch. Return the speed dial to 0.
8. Turn the fan OFF.
9. Turn the heat OFF and unplug the machine.
PLEASE NOTE:
10. The fans should be turned on for any laminating with 3-mil or thicker film. The Professor 27
is made to run film up to 10-mils thick. Speed must be reduced with thicker film to insure
adequate heating and cooling of the film. However, be sure to turn the cooling fans off after
each laminating run (group of items to be laminated) as the machine's cooling capacity can
be exceeded before its heating capacity.
11. Top speed on the Professor 27 is about 15 feet per minute. When the indicator line on the
speed control is pointing straight up, that's half speed, or about seven feet per minute.
Five feet per minute is a typical speed for running 3-mil or 5-mil film, although either can be
run faster or slower. Thin film (1.5 or 1.7-mil) can be run from five to ten feet per minute,
and should not be run slowly. Thicker films (7 or 10-mil) should be run at two or three feet
per minute. Remember turn on the fans while laminating with 3-mil and thicker films.
17

5-2 THREADING the LAMINATOR
Although this machine can be threaded cold, most operators feel it’s easier to thread while it is
warming up or already hot. The Professor 27 was designed to allow the operator to safely and
easily thread the laminator while it is hot
1. Remove the supply roll mandrels. The supply roll mandrels are now ready to accept loading
of the film rolls, wound with the polyester (shiny) side out. The tension control knobs should
be positioned on the right
2. Slide a roll of film onto the top supply roll mandrel. Make sure the dull side of the film is
facing up and the shiny side is facing the heat rollers during the threading.
3. With the roll of laminate centered on the mandrel, place it in the top bracket. Place the left
side of the shaft in its slot first, then place the right side of the shaft in its slot, turning it as
needed to align the hexagon bushings with their respective slot(s).
5. Review the threading diagram. Run the film from the top mandrel under the idler bar and
drape it across the top heat roller. Remember, the shiny side of the film must always go
against the roller. The dull (adhesive) side must face away from the roller. With the top
roll of film centered on the mandrel and the shiny side facing down and draped over the top
heat roller, you are now ready to load the bottom supply roll mandrel.
6. Load the bottom roll of film onto the mandrel in the same manner as the top roll. Remember,
the shiny side of the film must always go against the roller. The dull (adhesive) side must
face away from the roller. Make sure the two rolls are aligned with each other before going
to the next step. Now drape the film from the bottom roll against the film from the top roll
on the top roller. If the laminator is hot, the exposed adhesive on the top web will hold the
bottom web and make it easy to stick the two webs together. If you are threading the
machine while it is cold, use tape to stick the bottom web against the top web.
7. With both rolls threaded and installed in their respective brackets, unwind the top and bottom
supply rolls about a half-turn each. This will provide enough slack in the web to allow the
feed tray to close easily. Remember, the bottom idler bar is attached to the feed tray. If
there’s no slack in the web, the feed tray will be difficult to close.
8. Swing the feed tray into it’s closed position.
9. Swing the safety shield down into the laminating position. Lock the swing away top cover
into position using the lock lever located in the center of the cover .The machine will not
operate without the safety shield ( and integral safety switch ) in the down and locked
position. NOTE: the swing away feed tray is held in it’s closed position by the upper swing
away cover. The feed tray must be closed before the top cover or the laminator will not
function properly. Once the top cover is properly locked, close the laminating rollers with the
large knob on the right side of the unit. With the film draped over the two heat rollers, push
one edge of the threading card into the roller nip.
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Push the drive switch to forward. If the film and the card are in the nip (the point where the
laminating rollers meet) the film and the threading card will start into the laminator and will
pass through both sets of rubber rollers. When the threading card has cleared the back of the
machine, return the forward drive switch to the off/neutral position and return the speed dial
to 0.
DANGER! The machine will not operate without the safety shield ( and integral safety
switch ) in the down and locked position.The safety shield must be in position over the upper
heat roller whenever the rollers are turning or machine is heating. The laminator is designed to be
run with operator directly in front and facing the control panel, not at an angle or from the side.
MISE IN GARDE! L’écran de sécurité doit recouvrir la plaque chauffante supérieure lorsque les
rouleaux tournent or que la machine est en train de chauffer le materiau. La machine a plastifier
est concue pour que l’operateur se place directement en face du tableau de commande et non en
biais par rapport a celui-ci, ou sur le cote.
PELIGRO! La pantalla protectora debe estar puesta sobre la placa termica superior cada vez que
giren los rodillos o se caliente la maquina. El laminador esta disenado para que el operador lo haga
funcionar directamente por delante mirando el panel de control, no en una esquina o desde u un
costado.
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