Frequently Asked Questions

What types of glue can be used?
All glues conventionally used for veneering can be used. We also have special glues for drastically shortened pressing cycles.

What is the duration of a pressing cycle?
With normal pressing temperatures, the duration of a pressing cycle is about 3-4 times longer than the pressing cycles of common veneering processes (15 - 20 minutes). If you choose to use our special glues, however, the duration of a pressing cycle will be between 5 and 8 minutes.

How high is the temperature during th pressing cycle?
CONTURA can be heated up to maximal 80 °C. If you are using PVAC-glues, however, the maximum temperature is 55 °C (continued elasticity in high temperatures). If you are using glues with added hardeners (urea based), the maximum temperature is 80 °C.

What types of veneer can be used?
All conventional veneers (0,8 to 1,5 mm), but no stronger veneers.

What types of profiles can be veneered?
Hollow profile (oblate paneling) with a radius of up to at least 50 mm and an oblate recess of 7 mm (ideal radius: 100 mm); modern fronts with curvatures (ideal radius: 30 mm, ideal recess: 9 mm); modern beveled fronts (ideal degree of bevel (15˚, ideal width 25 mm).

Why does the veneer not tear?
The veneer is dampened at the spot where the of highest deformation forces act.

How much pressure should be applied?
For traditional fronts (hollow profile), 2 to 4 kg/cm² should be applied, for modern fronts (oblate or beveled) , 1,5 to 2 kg/cm² should be applied (note that this is always measured on the entire surface of the cushion).

Which raw materials should be used for the work pieces?
Materials such as MDF, fine-grained chipboard, and normal chipboard are best suitable for use with this unit.

Does the cushion have to be protected against dirt?
Absolutely yes - we provide cover sheeting for every CONTURA we deliver.

Can the operating temperature of 80°C be exceeded?
Absolutely not! Exceeding the maximum operating temperature severely damages the cushion. Repeated exceeding of the maximum temperature can destroy the cushion (the inserted granulate used to stabilize the temperature).

Does the cushion have to be as large as the veneering press?
No, you can freely choose from the standard models. Also, we can of course provide custom sized cushions (independent from the measures of the veneering press).

Can the cushion be used on both sides?
Yes. However, only one side should be used at a time – never both sides at the same time! (i.e. do not insert work pieces on the top and the bottom sides simultaneously)

Can work pieces be softforming-veneered on both sides simultaneously (for example paneling)?
Yes, by using two CONTURA units, one of which does then have to be attached on the underside of the top pressing board (with the special supporting device)

Which materials can be used as the work piece substrates?
Basically, all material can be used (chipboard, MDF, solid wood, plywood), but MDF is most suitable.

What is the operating life of the pressing cushion?
Approximately 20.000 pressing cycles (once the cushion is less than 40 mm thick, without applied pressure, the rubber granulate components have to be replaced). ATTENTION: If you use the cushion after it has been reduced to less than 40 mm thickness, the veneering press could be damaged.