Variables in Vacuum Laminating of Thermoplastic Films

This paper discusses major variables affecting the shaping of wood parts to be laminated with thermoplastic films. Variables include the stretch characteristics of two 8 mil decorative polyvinyl chloride films as affected by vacuum and temperature as well as vacuum transmission through supposedly porous wood substrates of particleboard and lumber core. Mathematical relationships of design cut-out dimensions of span, depth, and thermoplastic film stretch are developed. Of the major variables affecting the film stretch property, temperature can be controlled through instrumentation. Vacuum, however, depends not only on equipment limitations, but also the rate of transmission through the substrate being laminated. Venting is discussed and the effect of vent hole dimensions of length to diameter on vacuum equalization time is determined using multiple correlation and regression analysis technique.

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