Since being appointed by Finsa as its preferred supplier of the groundbreaking lightweight Superpan STAR veneer board, Lawcris Panel Products has experienced a tremendous reception and positive reaction from customers.
Paul Holstead, commercial manager of Lawcris says: “Superpan STAR has given our veneered product portfolio a new dimension. The reduction in weight, superior face veneer, excellent machining performance and competitive pricing means that this product appeals to a wide range of customers.”
Superpan STAR, has been created by using Finsa’s existing patented Superpan board technology and BASF’s Kaurit Light system. The result is a board product as strong and high performing as existing Superpan but up to 30% lighter.
Superpan is produced in a continuous process by creating a chipboard core with surfaces of MDF-like fibres which gives the board higher resistance to bending over conventional chipboard.
It also means that Superpan can be machined in all respects with conventional methods and offers excellent screw-holding properties. The MDF-like faces mean that the board yields superb results when accepting a surface laminate or decorative coating.
With Superpan STAR the inner core now is a combination of wood chips, a Kaurit Light polymer and a bonding agent. This is what goes to make a weight saving of 30% without compromising any strength or other properties. The Kaurit Light polymer is introduced into the core at this stage using a process called ‘foamation’. It also means that Superpan can be machined in all respects with conventional methods and offers excellent screw-holding properties. The MDF-like faces mean that the board yields superb results when accepting a surface laminate or decorative coating.
Paul Holstead adds: “Superpan STAR has multi appeal to our customers. Some like the weight reduction, others like the superior face veneer, and they all like the machining performance.”
Leeds-based Lawcris Panel Products has expanded steadily since its establishment 31 years ago to a £46m turnover in 2012 and employing 130 staff. Its fleet of distribution and delivery vehicles is approach 40.
Paul adds: “Due to the successful launch, we have recently placed orders to increase our stock range from the start of 2014. I have no doubt that our range will increase even further during next year.”
Superpan STAR was launched in the UK at the W12 Working with Design exhibition where it received the Design in Manufacturing Awards accolade.
Finsa says that the introduction of Superpan STAR has had positive ramifications across a whole range of applications and industry sectors.
