Profile wrapping can be used for a wide variety of applications, ranging from simple to highly complex. Photo: Nordson Corp.
Profile wrapping has come a long way, from the early days of applying overlays to simple moulded edges, to wrapping complex shapes with a wide variety materials.
In fact, what can be profile wrapped is limited only by the imagination. Typically, anything that can be run in lineal lengths can be moulded. And anything that can be moulded, shaped or profiled can be profile wrapped.
The profile wrapping process utilizes numerous materials, including vinyl as well as traditional paper or veneer. Todayâs profiles now encompass not only wood or engineered wood products, but also a wide variety of plastics and aluminum as substrates. The adhesive also has expanded, from solvent-based cold glues to hot melt adhesives, including EVA, polyolefin and reactive polyurethanes (PUR). And the wide variety of possible applications for profile wrapped products has made critical the ability to control the adhesive application.
For example, it is essential that there be a thorough coating for complete adhesion of the wrapper to the profile. Adhesive coating voids caused by either contamination or incomplete coating coverage can cause the wrap and substrate to delaminate over time. Likewise, over-application of the adhesive can result in both a poor bond between the wrap and the substrate as well as appearance issues. Excess adhesive can squeeze out of the edges of the finished products, resulting in either the need for excessive clean up or an unsightly finished product.
High-End Applications Profile wrapping is no longer considered a lower quality alternative to real wood products and is instead being featured for intricate work, complete windows â both interior and exterior parts â as well as high-end furniture.
High-end furniture usage has grown in part due to the use of veneers in profile wrapping. Fingerjointing the veneer can allow for longer rolls that then can be color and grain matched. Sanding the veneer also makes it pliable and supple, able to adapt to almost every kind of geometry for wrapping. Vinyls, papers and polyester are also among the materials of choice for profile wrapping applications.
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