Integrated Forms Laminates & Uses

Since their inception in the early 1990's, integrated forms have used various laminates.  Originally the concept was to place a patch of glue on the back of a printed form and then die cut straight through the paper making what was called a "sesam" label - which is what we now call an Integrated Label.

Nowadays, the product differs greatly in that water based acrylic adhesives or hot melt glue are used.  The water based substance is more environmentally friendly and has the advantage of having glue to every edge of the patch which reduces the risk of the adhesive seeping out onto the back of the form and potentially into the laser printer.  The hot melt product is a thermo plastic which is melted onto the product and has a dry edge on each side or on all sides of the patch which has been known to detach itself in printers.  The water based product has the advantage of being able to use a mild spirit to remove any contamination in the printer thus reducing any potential financial risk and is generally more aggressive as the adhesive itself can migrate into the substrate to which it is applied.

Through extensive research and development, polyester is now used to form an Integrated Card and have laser compatible top coatings.  This is achieved as some have a water based hot air dried coating whilst others use a U.V. cure which creates a varnish coating on the surface of the plastic which allows it to be lasered.

The main advantage of an integrated product over an applied version is normally the cost but the fact that the colour match between form and card / label is perfect as they come from the same process is a major benefit.  Integrated forms are much easier to laser too as it offers a much flatter surface than an applied product.

Over the last 10 years, the integrated market has gained much momentum and provides many solutions to the picking and packing element of business right up to full colour direct mailings.  In all honesty, if you order just about anything from the internet or perhaps take out a membership of almost any kind; the chances are that you will receive an integrated form in the post accompanying your purchase or membership.