Influence of the Press Closing Time Upon the Properties of HDF Panels

Abstract

The closing time of the press is an important technological parameter which influences the density profile of the panels. It also has a decisive influence within the gluing process. When the closing time is too high, the adhesive hardening begins premature due to the heat radiation of the press platens. The resulting panels are fragile and have a very low internal bond. However, the reduction of the press closing time is limited by technical considerations. The present research envisaged an in depth study of this aspect, with a view to establish if it is possible to obtain optimized characteristics of the HDF panels (3mm thick door-skins) by reducing the press closing time from 3s to 2s.

Keywords

• high-density fiberboards; press closing time; product optimization