Types and characteristics of laminated plywood

A common and robust material for both construction and decoration is laminated plywood. Because of its exceptional strength and visual appeal, it is a well-liked option for a variety of projects, including wall paneling and furniture construction.

This kind of plywood is created by adhering thin veneers of wood together and covering the surface with a laminate covering for protection. As a result, a durable and aesthetically pleasing material is produced that will hold up over time despite normal wear and tear.

Selecting the best laminated plywood for your needs can be aided by being aware of the various varieties and features available. Depending on your requirements, such as strength, moisture resistance, or lightweightness, there’s probably a laminated plywood type that will work for you.

Because of its smooth finish, strength, and moisture resistance, laminated plywood is a versatile and long-lasting material that is frequently used in wall decoration. It will be simpler to select the best laminated plywood type for your project after reading this article, which examines the various varieties and highlights their special qualities and recommended uses.

What is laminated plywood?

The products are denoted by the acronyms "FL" or "FLF." This is a laminated veneer board with cladding covering both sides, based on regulatory documentation. The finishing process involves lamination, which enhances the material’s performance characteristics and produces the intended decorative effect.

Multi-layer FSF plywood, with its superior technical properties, serves as the foundation. Deciduous tree veneer is used to make this type of plate; coniferous varieties are only used for internal segments.

The following materials are processed in order to laminate the panel:

• Phenol -based resins and formaldehyde. This finish provides the reliability of the coating. Due to toxicity, the products are suitable only for outdoor use.
• Melamine. It is a specially processed melamine-formaldehyde resin.
• Polyvinyl chloride (plastic). It is an organic polymer that creates a durable and resistant coating. The most preferred solution for internal processes.

Laminated products, then, are multilayer boards with an exterior plastic or resinous lining composed of veneer from various tree species.

The following categories apply to laminated materials, based on the nation of production:

1. European or Finnish plywood. This is a high-quality option that can be used in various situations.
2. Russian veneered boards. Inferior to the previous variety. Although there are enterprises that produce products that are a worthy alternative to foreign products.
3. Chinese panels. The material is based on bamboo, poplar, eucalyptus wood, but most often of very low quality. There are sheets made from a mixture of sawdust, which are used for internal segments.

Types and brands

The range of materials makes it possible to select the best course of action for a given circumstance.

Currently, the options listed below are distinguished:

• Mesh. This is a special category with a complex relief structure (see. photo), which eliminates slipping. Such plywood is not widely used and is used mainly for covering transport.
• Moisture-resistant. This category usually includes boards with plastic (PVC) cladding, although other options also have good water resistance. The cladding can be used in various rooms of the house and apartment, as well as for external work.
• Colored. There are 8 standard shades, divided into many tones. This is an excellent solution that allows you to get a decor that matches the style of the interior.
• Formwork. The peculiarity of this material is that the parts can withstand severe mechanical and chemical stress. The panels can be used multiple times, depending on the durability of the structure.
• Furniture. This is a high-quality variation, formaldehyde emission class – E1.

• FOB or FOF. Decoding of the abbreviation – "veneered plywood". This group includes products with a film coating impregnated with synthetic resins. Products can have different finishes:

• both sides are smooth;
• one surface is mesh, the other is smooth;
• the front part is embossed, the back is untreated.

The elements have markings that help identify the type quickly: SP stands for paper; W for mesh; and F for smooth.

Guidance! It is best to choose products from reliable manufacturers that are distributed by big-box stores and wholesalers.

Characteristics

The popularity of the material is determined by its excellent properties.

1. Density – at least 650-700 kg / m3. Low-quality options have values ​​\u200b\u200bin the range of 500 kg / m3, so they are not suitable for complex processes.
2. Residual humidity does not exceed 8–10%.
3. Bending strength – 60 MPa, stretching – 40 MPa.
4. Sound insulation – up to 40 dB.
5. Formaldehyde emission class – E1.
6. Variety – 1/1, 1/2, 2/2.
7. PVC or waterproof -based waterproof protection – PVC or waterproof.

Production is done in compliance with hygienic, DIN, TU, GOST, and EN standards. European quality standards are made to accommodate a larger range of types.

Dimensions and weight

The most typical proportions are:

• 1220 x 2440 mm (W x D). Depending on the thickness, the weight is: 6 mm – 10 kg; 9 mm – 18 kg; mm – 23.7 kg; 18 mm – 35.6 kg; 21 mm – 41.6 kg.
• 1250 x 2500 mm: 6 mm – 11 kg; 9 mm – 18.6 kg; 12 mm – 25 kg; 18 mm – 37.4 kg; 21 mm – 43.6 kg.

The minimum size of a plywood sheet is 6 mm, however some producers use 4 mm. There is a 40 mm maximum thickness. With so many options available, you can select the best option for a given task.

Production Features

An explanation of the technology used to produce sheet goods:

1. Birch wood is mainly selected for work. It is allowed to use coniferous species, but only for the core. Raw materials undergo standard preparation and peeling on a special machine.
2. Veneer is sent for rejection. To glue the layers, a mixture based on phenol-formaldehyde resins is used.
3. Pressing is carried out under pressure and temperature.
4. The boards are given a format, the surfaces are sanded.
5. The panels are laminated with a film of the desired color, the most popular are white and black. To ensure reliable adhesion, the surface is subjected to thermal action.
6. The edges are processed.

Should substandard raw materials be utilized or technological protocols be breached, the end products won’t fulfill the specified attributes.

Note: The manufacturer is required to disclose the standard or norm that governed the plywood’s manufacturing process.

Laminated plywood is a material that is particularly useful for a variety of wall decoration projects. It provides an attractive finish along with durability. It is a great option for both residential and commercial spaces because of its strength and sleek surface.

Laminated plywood comes in a variety of forms and qualities, so it can be customized to meet particular requirements for either a structural component or a decorative feature. Because of its versatility, it will always be a well-liked choice for people who want to add high-quality materials to their interior design.

In the end, knowing the various varieties and qualities of laminated plywood aids in decision-making and guarantees that the material selected satisfies both functional and aesthetic needs. It’s a dependable and fashionable option for contemporary wall décor.

Video on the topic

Laminated plywood

A brief overview of laminated plywood Tim Grid. Plywood thickness 18 mm. Size 1.22×2.44 m.

Plywood – properties, features and characteristics. FSF, FSF TV, laminated with plastic, veneer

Laminated mesh plywood | Motteks

Laminated plywood review

Plywood and OSB. Secrets and features of work. Briefly and to the point.