The success of a particular labeling application can often come down to the quality of the overlaminate. Overlaminates play a crucial role in protecting and enhancing labels. These solutions act as a versatile layer that safeguards the underlying label construction while also improving its functionality and appearance.

According to Hannah Kircher, Overlaminate, Rapid Roll product manager, Avery Dennison, overlaminates perform multiple functions. “Overlaminates provide resistance to chemicals, weathering, abrasion, and UV exposure, ensuring the label remains intact and legible in harsh environments,” says Kircher. “They also improve the visual appeal of labels with options like gloss, matte finishes, and special effects such as a soft, velvety feel.”

There is a durable and functional aspect to overlaminates, as well. “By adding thickness and body, they prevent tearing and enhance the overall strength of the label,” adds Michael Welch, senior product manager, Durables, Avery Dennison. “From a functionality standpoint, overlaminates enable variable printing, are FDA-approved for direct food contact, and improve package processing by lowering the coefficient of friction.”

Converters often use overlaminates across numerous industries due to their protective and aesthetic properties. For example, they are often utilized in food, cosmetics, and beverages. This occurs mainly because overlaminates accomplish multiple goals. They enhance shelf appeal, provide FDA-approved direct food contact options, and ensure durability in handling and storage. 

Premium labels often rely on overlaminates, as well. These solutions add a premium look and feel, making products stand out on the shelf. In addition, durable markets are popular.

“In the industrial and automotive markets, overlaminates offer heat, chemical, and abrasion resistance, making them ideal for demanding environments,” states Welch. “Our 610T Self-Wound Overlaminate, for example, has earned official UL Recognition, making it a go-to solution for industrial applications. It provides robust protection against moisture, chemicals, and UV light, and can help you streamline your own certification process.

“In outdoor applications, with UV protection and resistance to environmental factors, they are perfect for protecting bumper stickers, window decals, and other outdoor uses,” adds Welch. “These applications highlight the versatility and importance of overlaminates in both functional and aesthetic contexts.”

Overlaminate evolution

Overlaminate technology has seen significant advancements in recent years, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and specialized applications.

These developments include:  enhanced aesthetics and improved functionality.

“Products like Sofsensation offer a velvety texture and spot-print compatibility, allowing for creative designs with matte and gloss effects,” notes Kircher. “Regarding functionality, self-wound overlaminates now include features such as thermal transfer printable surfaces, release surfaces for foldout booklets, and foil stamping.”

Overlaminates are also frequently used in specialized applications. Avery Dennison has tailored products for specific needs such as digital printing, graffiti resistance, and outdoor durability. This makes them suitable for a broader range of industries.

“These innovations ensure that overlaminates not only protect but also add value to the labels they cover,” adds Kircher.

New solutions

For converters seeking new overlaminate products, Avery Dennison has unveiled a wide range of solutions. Recent additions include Avery Dennison’s 610T Self-Wound Overlaminate, which is now officially UL recognized. This makes it a trusted solution for demanding industrial applications.

“This is crucial because it confirms the product meets rigorous safety and durability standards,” remarks Welch. “The 610T provides robust protection against moisture, chemicals, and UV light. By using our UL-recognized construction, you can streamline your own certification process, saving both time and money. Also, our 691V is perfect for outdoor applications like bumper stickers and window decals.”

Meanwhile, the Sofsensation Overlaminate offers a velvety feel, spot-print compatibility for matte and gloss effects, and enhanced packaging design. It is versatile and suitable for food, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and more.  Plus, the 79325 is a UV PET overlaminate designed for outdoor applications that need improved UV resistance.

“Additionally, our 410 DIG and 691 DIG have been designed for digital printing and demanding applications requiring scratch and scuff resistance,” says Kircher.  “And the 841 is ideal for graffiti resistance and office settings.”

In addition to new products, Avery Dennison offers comprehensive support to help customers. This service enables converter to select the best overlaminate for their specific applications.

“Customers can contact Avery Dennison representatives for tailored advice and recommendations,” says Kircher. “We offer expert guidance, as representatives provide insights into the most suitable products based on the customer’s industry, application, and desired outcomes.”

Avery Dennison offers both self-wound and linered overlaminates to meet diverse application needs, too. These options provide flexibility and durability, ensuring optimal performance for various labeling requirements.

“This hands-on approach ensures that customers receive the right product to meet their needs, enhancing both performance and satisfaction,” adds Welch.