Historic TFL panel standard sets performance benchmarks

Posted by Karen M. Koenig

March 24, 2026 | 2:36 pm CDT

The world’s first Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) Panel Standard is now available, setting a new level of confidence and consistency for specifiers and manufacturers.

Established by the Composite Panel Association (CPA), the voluntary standard was developed in conjunction with 22 stakeholder companies from across the industry and provides a common basis for specifying and using TFL panels manufactured in North America.

“CPA is proud to sponsor the first-of-its-kind TFL Panel Standard specifically responsive to specifiers’ needs in North America,” said Andy O’Hare, president of the association.

TFL panels are manufactured by fusing a resin-impregnated décor paper directly onto particleboard, MDF, or hardwood plywood using heat and pressure. Engineered for enhanced surface texture, and visual and performance features such as scratch, stain, and wear resistance, as well as light resistance, TFL panels are used in a variety of applications in commercial and residential sectors, including furniture, cabinetry, wall accents, laminate flooring, and store fixtures.

The standard provides a technical definition of TFL panels. It also sets forth minimum requirements and test methods for surface performance and dimensional properties, including Large Ball Impact Resistance, Lightfastness, Scratch Resistance, Stain Resistance, Surface Defects, and Wear Resistance. Dimensional properties specified include Flatness, Thickness Tolerance, and Warp. With the standard, wear resistance and other product properties will be verified through rigorous testing, ensuring durability of strength and appearance.

“Manufacturers can now proudly bring to market TFL panels that meet or exceed CPA 5-25 Voluntary TFL Panel Standard, ensuring that they are delivering high-performance quality products that endure for years,” said O’Hare.

CPA adds that the standard provides an industry-wide foundation for establishing performance requirements across North America, giving specifiers assurance that these compliant TFL panels and components are of the highest quality. Visit CPA’s website CompositePanel.org for more information or for a list of CPA standards available for download.

Download the TFL Panel Standard here.

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About the author

Karen M. Koenig has more than 35 years of experience in the woodworking industry, including visits to wood products manufacturing facilities throughout North America, Europe and Asia. As senior editor, her responsibilities include writing and editing for Woodworking Network publications FDMC Magazine and Closets & Organized Storage Magazine, as well as the website. She also oversees many of Woodworking Network's special projects and programs, including Red Book: Resource Guide for Best Practice, FDMC 300, 40 Under 40, and the Wood Industry Market Leaders. She can be reached at [email protected].