LEESBURG, Va. — REHAU offers polypropylene (PP) T-molding, an environmentally friendly, PVC-free edging solution for furniture manufacturing.

PVC T-molding is a widely used edging solution that is applied manually, facilitating a streamlined, cost-effective installation for straight and curved furniture forms. Easily incorporated into existing manufacturing methods, PP T-molding offers processing properties similar to PVC and does not require investment in new equipment. Its slightly more rigid characteristics require only minor installation adjustments, such as notching the barb when navigating tight radii. PP also has excellent routing properties that generally allow for use of the same routers and tooling as PVC T-molding.

A pioneer in the polymer industry, REHAU was the first company to provide a PP-formulated T-molding for the furniture market. The proprietary formulation was developed in response to increasing demand for sustainable, eco-conscious materials that also provide utilitarian solutions and address modern design trends.

“We are excited to provide PVC-free polypropylene alternatives for the industry’s most popular edging solutions,” said Mark Kraus, North American technical engineering manager for REHAU’s furniture business unit. “Years of extensive development work have been applied to achieve this, as part of an ongoing effort to support our customers in their goal of creating environmentally minded furniture products.”

According to Kraus, practices such as the use of sustainable materials and renewable energy sources are increasingly driving today’s manufacturing processes. “With industry leaders such as Herman Miller and IKEA emphasizing sustainable practices, furniture manufacturing processes and the materials used in them are becoming more and more oriented toward environmental responsibility,” he explained.

New PP T-molding from REHAU has been tested to show scratch, UV, chemical and shrinkage resistance comparable to that of current PVC solutions. It is also available in the full range of solid, wood grain and stone colors supplied in traditional PVC.

For additional information on REHAU’s new PP T-molding for office, kitchen and store fixture applications, visit IWF® 2012 booth No. 2655 or contact: REHAU, 1501 Edwards Ferry Rd., N.E., Leesburg, Va., 20176. Phone: 1.800.247.9445. Fax: 1.800.627.3428. E-mail: [email protected]. Web site: www.na.rehau.com/furniture

REHAU delivers “Unlimited Polymer Solutions,” and is the premium worldwide brand for polymer-based innovations and systems in construction, automotive and industry. The company generates continuous growth through its expertise and innovative capabilities in materials development, systems design and surface technology. Approximately 15,000 employees at more than 170 locations around the world ensure success of the independent, privately held company.

Source: REHAU