Laminate finishes
From MaterialProject.org, the free architectural material catalog
Contents |
Material analysis
MasterFormat Number: 06
Traditional uses / Applications
- High Pressure Decorative Laminates (HPDL’s) are commonly used as an alternative applied finish for casework, architectural
woodwork, wall covering and countertops.
- Architectural casework applied finish, shelving, wall paneling, doors, counter and tabletops, retail displays.
- Furniture, Flooring and Signage.
- HPDL’s can be post formed and bent for bends by heating, bending and cooling on a form.
Emerging uses / trends
- Advances in technology have produced chemically resistant, durable HPDL’s for use in medical and industrial applications.
Finish and aesthetic qualities
- Low cost alternative finish to achieve look of precious woods, metals, and leather.
- Thousands of color and pattern choices are available.
- Variety of textures and levels of gloss available.
- Not suitable for wet applications.
- Generally easy to clean and maintain.
- Avoid abrasive pads and cleaners.
- Avoid placing hot objects on finish.
- Can crack, scratch and chips.
- Seams may show.
Surface forms / shapes
- As an applied finish, HPDL’s are available in flat sheet form.
- Because it is comprised of wood and paper products, sheets will have some dimensional instability, which must be accounted for in detailing.
- HPDL’s can be hot molded to curved substrates such as countertop edges.
- Colorthrough laminates, fire rated laminates, chemical resistant laminates, static dissipative, thick, metal faced, natural wood veneer and engraving stock.
Cost analysis
- Price / SqFt: $10-$60 per linear foot. (Without cost of substrate or fabrication)
Material properties
Standard dimensions
- Widths 36”, 48” and 60”.
- Lengths 96”, 120”, 144”.
- Thickness range according to specified use: Vertical general purpose averages .028” thick; Horizontal Applications average .05” thick.
Manufacturing process and assembly
- Made by impregnating several layers of Kraft paper with phenlic resins and overlaying paper with a decorative melamine sheet and an alpha cellulose overlay.
- The entire assembly is placed in a hot press under pressure where the layers fuse together.
- Laminates must be applied to a substrate such as plywood, particleboard, MDF and hardwoods.
- 45-lb.dense particleboard is the most common substrate as it provides a dimensionally stable and smooth surface for adherence.
Special Installation Issues
- Like wood high pressure laminate has a grain direction, and dimensional behavior with moisture changes similar to that of wood.
- When humidity changes, the width of the laminate undergoes greater dimensional change than the length (by a ratio of approximately 1.5).
- As humidity decreases, the laminate sheet contracts, and when the humidity increases, the laminate sheet expands.
- High-pressure decorative laminates and the substrate should be allowed to acclimate for at least 48 hours at the same ambient conditions.
- Optimum conditions are approximately 23 degrees C (73 degrees F) and a relative humidity of 45 % to 55 %.
- Provision should be made for the circulation of air around the components.
- Backer sheets are recommended for use on the back of the panel-assemblies to protect the substrate from humidity changes and to reduce warpage.
- Must use slight reveals when mounting as wall panels.
Environment and Life Safety
Environmental impact
- Adhesives used in fabrication may off-gas.
Flammability rating
- Fire Rated Laminates are available.
- Class 1 and A ratings with the correct substrates and adhesives used.
References
Notes
Student contributions
- Alison Smith, Spring 2008
- Trish Girard, Fall 2005
See also
Similar materials
External links
Leading manufacturers
