We assist customers in getting the most out of the laminating services they choose. Our team is able to do this because of the experience and skill we possess. There is no one who understands the lamination procedure like we do. So, if you have a suitable item that needs working on, we will ensure it receives the attention it requires.
Sometimes, we get questions from people relating to issues with laminated wood projects. Said issues have the potential to compromise the final product. As a result, you need to know what they are and how to avoid them. That is what we will be talking about in this post.
Uneven wood stock
The first problem we will go over is having uneven wood stock. At times, irregularities with inner layers transmit to the exterior. The result is a spotty bond that appears across the panel.
Your issue here will often be an inconsistent stock thickness. Core thickness should not differ more than +/- 0.005 inches across your gluing space.
Uneven glue spread can lead to spotty bands too. This could be an indication that you need to re-groove or replace your spreader roll soon.
Furthermore, if you end up having to sand the stock, utilise sandpaper that has at least a 60 grit. Plus, make sure you remove any dust after sanding so it doesn’t affect the laminating services.
The incorrect temperature
The second issue is having the wood, plant, and/or glue too cold. In the winter, it is not unheard of for people using wood laminate products to have seasoning problems. Some materials aren’t stored inside or permitted to rise to indoor temperatures. As a result, it can undermine the laminating quality.
If you have glue that is “chalking”, there is a chance the ambient temperature isn’t as high as recommended. What you get is a weak bond and bright white squeeze out. It can ruin your laminating services.
Minimum temperature guidelines shall include the laminating stock. Datasheets will serve you well here. Always go over the adhesive data sheet prior to any project. Temperature is a major factor for your project’s success. For an adequate cure, ensure that the adhesive, stock, and air are above the minimum recommended temperature use.
A bad adhesive spread
Next, we will discuss having a poor or improper adhesive spread. Introducing too much can result in problems for your project. Veneer laminations can warp or might bleed through onto the face. But, a lack of adhesive can lead to a pre-cure.
One simple rule would be to introduce 30 to 45 pounds of adhesive per 1,000 sq ft of glue line. You are able to confirm that there is sufficient coverage by looking for squeeze out as you place the panel under pressure. The best utensil to obtain an even coating on your substrate will be a mechanical glue spreader. Contact us if you wish to use the UK’s leading laminating services.
Substrate issues
You also have to watch out for non-contracting or improper substrates. For a suitable bond, surface contact is a necessity. Pressure plays an essential role here as well. Yet, the amount of force you will need is going to vary between different materials and surface areas.
With high-pressure laminates, you should apply 30-80 psi of pressure. All-veneer constructions and solid core stock should receive 100-250 psi and 110-150 psi respectively. Wood species is also a vital element in the varying levels of pressure necessary for all-veneer construction.
Not enough press time
Finally, we will talk about inadequate press time. It will typically range from half an hour to two hours. The amount of time you press your panels for changes with the adhesive you employ. Other important factors include the stock’s moisture content and plant environmental conditions. The type of wood species is essential too.
It is possible to lower the press times via climate control within the wood storage area and plant. The recommendation is to keep the moisture content of your wood substrates between 6% and 8% prior to and following pressing.
We know how beneficial laminating services can be
At Foiling Services, we understand the benefits that lamination can bring to an object. For one thing, your items will gain an excellent level of protection. At the same time, we can enhance their aesthetics to make them more appealing. This can work for various types of wood stock, card, paper, and much more.
There is much you can gain by using the finest laminating services available. So, if there is anything we can help you with, please don’t hesitate to contact us.