Vacuum bagging HPL sheets
1/5/23
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
Is anyone doing this, and if so what is your technique, core, glue type ect...
1/6/23 #2: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
I have done it not after getting a hot press. I used PVA, pressed a backer at the same time. I have pressed laminate on whatever the customer wanted but if it is my choice then particle core.
Use a top sheet over the face laminate. Roll out glue evenly will a paint roller just barely opaque.
Once out of the press the sheets must be laid flat with air movement top and bottom or the will warp. Laminate will easily cut your bag. I did most of my bagging with a flip top press. Be careful when sliding sheets in and out.
It's a two person job.
1/7/23 #3: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
Thanks Tom. About how long in the bag with pva? And how long do you have to dry them until they're stable
1/7/23 #4: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
I have been conservative when I was bagging at about 30-45 minutes depending on winter to summer. I place sheets on 8' beams levelled on horses to stabilize with a cardboard cover sheet on top to protect the top from direct heater air. I have 3/4" sticks to space out sheets as they come out of the press. I will work them the next day.
It is hard to compete with a shop with a automatic glue roller and pinch roller. I think the going rate per sheet around here is $22. I can cycle sheets through my hot press in 10 minutes - two people working non stop.
1/12/23 #5: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
Website: http://kdunphy.com
This video should help also if you follow the channel I show some of the finishing
The glue can make or break
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-u2uj90V29E
1/13/23 #6: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
If you are using a bag I highly recommend Wilsonart 3135OV. It's good for both hot of cold press and dries clear. I use it now exclusively for both HPL and paper backed
veneers.
1/14/23 #7: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
Thanks Christopher. Im assuming this is the glue you are using?
6/10/23 #9: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
Website: RowlaStudios.com
Christopher, for cold pressing - what advantages does the Wilsonart 3135OV have over TitebondII? Is more stable? Looks like the open time is really short.
(We have our vendors do most layups for us - way more cost-effective - but in house are cold pressing in a vac bag)
6/11/23 #10: Vacuum bagging HPL sheets ...
This glue is, according to Wilsonart is specifically designed to be use with paper backed veneers and HPL . I've had zero issues since using it 5 years ago. Typical cold press Titebond glue sometime (infrequently) will fail. I glue up at lease 10 or so sides
a month, in a bag.