Most Common Uses of Textured Silicone Membranes

Membranes.

They come in every shape and size – with differing levels of thickness for the varied jobs you face.

They’re used in woodworking, for laminating doors and cabinets. They can be used for veneer and thermofoil (3D Laminate) pressing. The components of the membrane itself can be silicone or rubber.

However, silicone has different qualities than rubber, and so different uses. Here we’ll discuss some of the most common uses of textured silicone membranes.

Consider that people prefer wood. However, because it’s often unavailable, or unsustainable a great alternative is laminate. This is the thin layer of veneer that is pressed on using the membrane to affix it with a combination of heat and pressure.

Silicone membranes are designed to last for a very long time – through many different pressing cycles. As long as the parts being pressed are designed and spaced properly, membranes can last thousands of cycles.

The chemical composition of Steinbach Membranes allows them to expand way past their size – with elongation stretching up to 650 percent.

Why Textured Membranes?
Here you’ll see the difference between a textured and smooth membrane. Sometimes you’ll be creating a product that requires a smooth finish, such as for a highly glossed surface. These are best pressed with a smooth membrane.

However, a textured or matte membranes have advantages in certain situations. Dark decorative 3D Laminates tend to scuff or shadow during pressing and a textured membrane greatly reduces that problem. Sharp edge marks don’t telegraph onto a textured membrane, eliminating remarking the next press load of parts.

Similarly, if particular 3D Laminates are sticking to your membrane at the end of the pressing cycle, the textured membrane with its lower friction coefficient will more easily separate, eliminating the need to add powder or increase the air separation time.

If the textured surface is upward toward the heating platen, the textured surface allows for more even suctioning to the platen during the preheating phase. Better preheating means better heat transfer during the pressing cycle.

The textured surface of the membrane will slightly change the sheen of most 3D Laminates. This is never an issue as long as textured membranes are used consistently with that particular laminate in your production schedule.

Your Textured Silicone Membrane Manufacturer
Smartech offers a wide array of textured silicone membranes for your next project. Check out our range to suit your specific application. Contact us to find out why we’re a leading provider today!