High-Pressure Laminate or HPL is a direct descendant of the original plastic laminate. It is considered one of the most durable decorative surface materials and has special performance properties such as chemical, fire, and abrasion resistance. Special grades of HPL can be shaped around curved edges by applying heat and restriction. HPL is produced by saturating the multilayer kraft paper with phenolic resin. A printed sheet of decor paper is placed on the kraft paper before printing. The resulting sandwich is fused under heat and pressure (more than 1,000 PSI). Since phenolic and melamine resins are thermoset plastics, the curing process converts the resin into plastic by a cross-linking process that converts the paper sheets into a single, hard laminated layer. Thermoset forms strong, irreversible bonds that contribute to their durability.

HPL BIRCH PLY APPLICATION AREAS

• Cabinet makers,
• Warehouse linings,
• Holiday homes,
• Garage lining,
• Beach Batches,
• Sleepouts,
• Cabinets,
• Shelving.

The high-pressure laminate is laminated to a composite panel using various adhesives. Particleboard or MDF is the preferred substrate because they provide a stable, durable, consistent, and economical base. Due to their durability, high-pressure laminates are a common choice for horizontal surfaces including flooring, worktops, and desktop computers.