---
title: Laminating and Contour Cutting with ProTec Series 3960
description: Discover lamination and contour-cutting tips for ProTec Series 3960, including cold lamination settings, cutter setup recommendations, blade selection, and troubleshooting guidance for optimal graphic production
---

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# Laminating and Contour Cutting with ProTec Series 3960

## Learn the proper lamination and contour-cutting techniques for ProTec Series 3960 to minimize production challenges, extend blade life, and produce high-quality decals.

ProTec Series 3960 is an excellent choice for protecting your graphics, but can bring unique challenges when laminating or contour cutting due to its thickness.

### **Lamination**

ProTec Series 3960 is designed to be laminated cold. All heaters in the laminator should be turned off prior to the lamination process.

- Keep the production area clean and dust free to prevent particulates from contaminating the lamination process.
- Use a static string or static bar that is grounded to the frame of the laminator to reduce static.
- Use proper tension to ensure that Series 3960 is laminating straight.

### **Contour Cutting**

Prior to the contour cutting process, all heaters (pre, print and post) on print/cut machines must be turned off and allowed to cool to room temperature.

- Highly recommended to use a dedicated contour cutter that can reach at least 300gF in cut force. 
    - For contour cutters that cannot reach 300gF, 2-3 cut passes can be performed if your cutter is capable of that function.
- Use a 60° (Japan 30°) tough OEM blade (super-steel or cemented carbide) that is intended for thick materials.
- Lower the speed of the cutter to protect the blade.
- Perform many test cuts to ensure proper cutting conditions are met before beginning the job.
- Avoid using sheet cut/cross cut function (these blades may not be able to cut the film). Instead always hand cut to detach the graphic using a slitter tool or sharp blade.

 

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