Solid surface materials are true miracle materials that offer craft businesses almost limitless possibilities in terms of areas of application and processing options. A vacuum press is the best tool for users to fully take advantage of the materials potential.

What are solid surface materials?

Solid surface materials basically consist of polyester resin or acrylic resin as well as set natural materials such as aluminum trihydrate. Together, these components result in a non-porous, easy-care polymerized surface material that consists of a single mass. Its homogeneous structure makes it particularly versatile.

For users of a vacuum press, acrylic resin-bonded solid surface materials are of particular interest, as these – in contrast to polyester-bonded solid surface materials – can be thermally deformed particularly well.

Properties and advantages of solid surface materials?

Solid surface materials score with an enormous number of advantages, of which, depending on the application, always a different one comes first. As already mentioned, solid surface materials are ideal for deforming. No matter what they are used for, they find a versatile optical or functional task in every environment.

The material composition and quality bring several advantages. On the one hand solid surface materials are solid, very robust and extremely scratch, impact and wear resistant. They still inspire optically even after years. Due to the UV resistance also in the outdoor area. In addition, the material has a homogeneous structure. If scratches or damage should occur due to incorrect treatment, they can usually be easily sanded down and polished out. This homogeneity leads us straight to a very special and decisive advantage. Solid surface materials are non-porous. This, coupled with the possibility of being able to glue them completely seamlessly, results in a particularly hygienic surface that lasts a long time and is particularly easy to clean. Moisture cannot penetrate and bacteria and mold don't stand a chance. Solid surface materials are therefore suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications and wherever hygiene is a top priority. In addition, the material is particularly sustainable, recyclable and also ideal for allergy sufferers.

Areas of application for solid surface material

Solid surface materials are used in all shapes and colors, in bathrooms, kitchens, hospitals, laboratories, but also in numerous outdoor applications. Some transparent materials can even be backlit.

Optimal processing using a vacuum press

As already mentioned, vacuum presses offer the ideal opportunity to process solid surface materials. A vacuum press from Columbus allows its user to bring the solid surface material into many desired shapes.

The smooth and highly elastic membrane – heat-resistant up to +230° C – allows an extremely material-friendly processing without pressure points or scratches - even with a maximum pressure of 9t/m2 - because it adapts perfectly.

To heat up the material, Columbus has developed an external high-performance heating system, which is available in modular form. This can easily be placed under the vacuum table to save space.

When processing mineral materials, the thermal treatment before pressing is a critical factor. For this reason, Columbus deliberately installed a circulating air heating system. In contrast to conventional heating plates, which are not only very expensive and can often cause discoloration, especially with light-colored materials, a circulating air system guarantees very even, gentle heating. The large support surface with grating completes the system.