What is the best way to achieve the perfect match between the edge of a panel and its flat surface? Modern furniture manufacturers often need to face this question as this trend is becoming increasingly popular. The market now has a solution implemented by Cefla Finishing: a perfect combination that uses the same finishing technique on both surfaces (edge and flat surface) and uses the same lacquer. In addition to improving the process and ensuring economic benefits, it results in a visibly perfect match.
COMBINATION
The perfect combination consists of two machines: Smartedge, a complete solution for edge preparation with a UV primer, and Smartvacuum, for coating the surface of flat panels. Same technique, same coating, same quality.
Smartvacuum deposits 100/140 g per sqm of 100% UV coating in one single pass, much less than a spray coater. This reduces costs and lead times and streamlines the coating process. There are no solvents either, for a more sustainable process. The panels go through Smartedge and the perfect match between the panel surface and the edge is achieved. By using the vacuum technique for both, quality is increased and process time and costs are reduced. In addition, the stability of UV coatings is better than those currently used, so the quality finish obtained will last much longer.
By using the same technique for both tasks, the seam between the flat surface and the edge of the panel is virtually invisible. However, there are many other benefits that cannot be seen instantly, but are particularly interesting in the medium term.
Starting with the eco-friendliness of 100% UV acrylic coatings, there are a number of benefits that reduce consumables, costs, delivery time, handling and space requirements.
The junction seam no longer needs to be grinded after drying and before sanding, and sanding costs are lower and less waste is generated. Production is flexible and there are fewer process steps, resulting in fewer panel handling requirements.
An integrated finishing line incorporating Smartvacuum and Smartedge works according to this sequence: panel sanding; primer application and gelling; application of up to 140 g/sqm of 100% UV acrylic lacquer in a single pass; flash-off for 5/6 minutes; drying in a UV oven; sanding or matt/gloss finish, if required.
SUSTAINABILITY
The implementation of vacuum edge and surface coating technology, now that it is an established process and a reliable technology, has many advantages and deserves to be evaluated for its sustainability. Compared to spraying with solvents, it does not pollute, speeds up the process, reduces handling requirements and, above all, significantly reduces costs.
