Surface Applications

Edge banding seals the exposed edges of plywood, MDF, or chipboard with PVC, veneer, or melamine strips. EVA and polyolefin hotmelts work well for this – they melt, bond quickly, and set fast enough for production lines.

Overlay bonding is attaching fabric, cork, or other decorative materials to wood surfaces. Contact adhesives work here – they need to bond different materials together whilst staying flexible and not showing through thin fabrics.

Edge banding machines apply adhesive and material in one operation at high speed, so the adhesive needs to melt, transfer, and grip within seconds. Contact adhesives for overlays need careful application since they grab immediately with no repositioning. Surface preparation affects performance on sealed or finished wood where coatings can interfere with adhesion.