Simultaneous lamination and thermo-forming of composite panels - using corrugated card between thermoplastic layers to produce vehicle interior linings etc.

摘要

Composite thermoformed panels are made using a hot press to simultaneously form and laminate multiple sheets which include a core layer of corrugated cardboard (with or without flat integral covers) enclosed in turn between layers of thermoplastic sheet or film and layers of thermoformable card, so that the film bond to and encloses the core and also secures the formed card. The borders of the film and the card pref. extend beyond those of the corrugated core. Opt. the core may be overlaid with an insert of metal foil and/or some parts of the core may have previously been cut away, e.g. to accommodate ancillary fittings later. The formable card may be overlaid in turn by further layers of thermoplastic film and superficial decoration comprising woven or non-woven fabric, expanded plastic sheet, etc. The component layers may be preheated before entering the press. Opt. light wt. metal inserts may be used for local reinforcement within the panel. Suitable for e.g. panels for lining vehicle body interiors etc.