Laminating is a critical process in woven bag production. Different applications require different solutions. This article covers the four main types of laminators used in bag-making production—what each one does, how they differ in machine structure, and how to choose between them.
Option A — Extrusion Coating on PP Woven Fabric
This type applies a coating directly on the PP woven fabric surface, providing moisture-proof and powder-leakage-proof functions.
Option B—BOPP Lamination with PP Woven Fabric
This process laminates printed BOPP color film with PP woven fabric (or non-woven fabric). In addition to moisture-proof and powder-leakage-proof functions, the BOPP printing effect is more aesthetically pleasing.
Option C—Kraft Paper and PP Woven Fabric Lamination
This type laminates kraft paper with PP woven fabric, generally used for chemical bags, construction mortar bags, etc.
Option D—Film-to-Film Lamination
Unlike the first three options, film-to-film lamination bonds film materials together—such as PE+BOPP, PET+BOPP, aluminized film+OPP, and PE+aluminized film+OPP. The finished films are commonly used for three-side seal stand-up zipper bags, eight-side seal coffee bags, center seal bags, bag-in-box, logistics bags, and vacuum compression bags.
While the four types serve different purposes, there are important connections and differences in machine structure. The table below summarizes the key points:
| Comparison | Key Difference |
|---|---|
| A vs B | B adds a color film unwinder and a vertical pattern registration function |
| A vs C | The unwinder stands are different |
| A+B+C on one machine | Yes—it requires adding a translational loading stand for kraft paper and PP woven fabric rolls |
| D on the same machine | No—D cannot share the same machine; the structure is different |
Among the four types, Option D has its own sub-categories: solvent-free and solvent-based. Choosing between them depends on your application and export market.
| Comparison | Solvent-Free Laminator | Solvent-Based Dry Laminator |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | EU export, high-end food and pharmaceutical packaging, standard flexible packaging mass production (400–500 m/min), heat-sensitive films; factories under strict environmental supervision | 121°C/135°C retort pouches; multi-layer PET/AL/CPP foil bags; pesticide and chemical heavy-duty sacks; porous and rigid substrates; special printed films; traditional orders |
| Key advantage | Zero VOC, ultra-low solvent residue, compliant with EU regulations; no explosion-proof workshop or solvent recovery system required; lower operating cost | Strong adhesion on porous and rigid substrates; wider adhesive compatibility |
| Limitations |
Not suitable for retort pouches over 135°C or heavy-duty packaging with thick aluminum foil; low initial tack, long curing cycle
|
Requires drying oven, waste-gas recovery system, and curing room; solvent-residue test compulsory |
| Export to EU |
✅ Recommended
|
Non-compliant products cannot export to EU |
For export to EU, light-duty food packaging, or high-speed and energy-saving production, choose a solvent-free laminator. For retort pouches, heavy foil packaging, porous substrates, or high heat-resistant and chemical-resistant products, choose a solvent-based dry laminator with strict drying and curing control.