U.S. patent application number 10/366973 was filed with the patent office on 2003-08-28 for process, composition and coating of laminate material.
Invention is credited to Balthes, Garry E..
Application Number | 20030162461 10/366973 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32907615 |
Filed Date | 2003-08-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030162461 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Balthes, Garry E. |
August 28, 2003 |
Process, composition and coating of laminate material
Abstract
A fibrous moldable substrate is provided having a fibrous
material and a binder. The fibrous material and binder is subjected
to heat such that only a portion of the binder is wetted to the
fibrous material.
Inventors: |
Balthes, Garry E.; (Elkhart,
IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BARNES & THORNBURG
600 ONE SUMMIT SQUARE
FORT WAYNE
IN
46802
|
Family ID: |
32907615 |
Appl. No.: |
10/366973 |
Filed: |
February 14, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10366973 |
Feb 14, 2003 |
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10287250 |
Nov 4, 2002 |
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60358857 |
Feb 22, 2002 |
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60359017 |
Feb 22, 2002 |
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60359602 |
Feb 26, 2002 |
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60400173 |
Jul 31, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
442/411 ;
442/327; 442/409; 442/414; 442/416; 442/417 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B32B 2262/065 20130101;
Y10T 442/692 20150401; B32B 17/04 20130101; Y10T 442/696 20150401;
B32B 27/32 20130101; B32B 38/0012 20130101; B32B 37/1027 20130101;
B29C 43/222 20130101; B29C 2043/022 20130101; B29C 43/021 20130101;
E04B 1/942 20130101; D04H 1/60 20130101; B32B 2038/002 20130101;
B32B 5/024 20130101; B32B 2038/0028 20130101; B32B 2307/736
20130101; Y10T 442/69 20150401; B32B 38/0004 20130101; B29C 70/081
20130101; B32B 7/12 20130101; B32B 38/105 20130101; B32B 5/26
20130101; B32B 37/146 20130101; B32B 2605/08 20130101; B32B 5/022
20130101; B29C 70/504 20130101; B29C 2043/483 20130101; B32B 9/02
20130101; B32B 5/28 20130101; B32B 2038/042 20130101; B29C 43/003
20130101; B32B 2471/04 20130101; D04H 1/425 20130101; B29K 2311/10
20130101; B32B 37/08 20130101; Y10T 442/698 20150401; Y10T 442/699
20150401; Y10T 442/60 20150401; B32B 39/00 20130101; B32B 2305/022
20130101; B29C 2043/023 20130101; B32B 2323/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
442/411 ;
442/327; 442/409; 442/414; 442/416; 442/417 |
International
Class: |
D04H 005/06; D04H
001/00; D04H 005/00; D04H 013/00; D04H 001/54; D04H 003/14 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A fibrous moldable substrate comprising: a mat comprising a
fibrous material and a binder; wherein fibers of the fibrous
material are randomly oriented; and wherein the fibrous material
and binder is subjected to heat such that only a portion of the
binder is wetted to the fibrous material.
2. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the fibrous
material is hemp.
3. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the fibrous
material is kenaf.
4. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the fibrous
material comprises hemp and kenaf.
5. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 4, wherein the fibrous
material comprises about 50 weight percent hemp and 50 weight
percent kenaf.
6. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the mat
comprises about 25 weight percent hemp, about 25 weight percent
kenaf and about 50 weight percent the binder.
7. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the binder is
a thermomelt binder.
8. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 7, wherein the binder is
polypropylene.
9. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the mat
comprises about 24.75 weight percent hemp, about 24.75 weight
percent kenaf, about 50 weight percent a polypropylene binder
material and about 0.05 weight percent maleic anhydride.
10. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the mat is
subjected to a compression force where its cross-section is
reduced.
11. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the mat
experiences insubstantial two-dimensional shrinkage while being
subjected to the heat.
12. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 1, wherein the fibrous
material is selected from a group comprising hemp, kenaf, flax and
jute.
13. A fibrous moldable substrate comprising: a mat comprising a
fibrous material and a binder; wherein fibers of the fibrous
material are randomly oriented; wherein the fibrous material and
binder is subjected to heat such that only a portion of the binder
is wetted to the fibrous material; and wherein the binder become
dimensionally stable when cooled.
14. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the fibrous
material is at least semi-rigid.
15. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 12, wherein the fibrous
material is hemp.
16. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the fibrous
material is kenaf.
17. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the fibrous
material comprises hemp and kenaf.
18. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 17, wherein the fibrous
material comprises about 50 weight percent hemp and 50 about weight
percent kenaf.
19. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the mat
comprises about 25 weight percent hemp, about 25 weight percent
kenaf and about 50 weight percent the binder.
20. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the binder
is a thermomelt binder.
21. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 20, wherein the binder
is polypropylene.
22. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the mat
comprises about 24.75 weight percent hemp, about 24.75 weight
percent kenaf, about 50 weight percent a polypropylene binder
material and about 0.05 weight percent maleic anhydride.
23. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the mat is
subjected to a compression force where its cross-section is
reduced.
24. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the mat
experiences insubstantial two-dimensional shrinkage while being
subjected to the heat.
25. The fibrous moldable substrate of claim 13, wherein the fibrous
material is selected from a group comprising hemp, kenaf, flax and
jute.
26. A fibrous moldable substrate comprising: a mat comprising a
fibrous material and a binder; wherein fibers of the fibrous
material are randomly oriented; wherein the fibrous material and
binder is subjected to heat such that only a portion of the binder
is wetted to the fibrous material; and wherein the mat is
semipermeable when cooled.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is also a Continuation-in-Part of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/287,250, filed on Nov. 4, 2002,
which is related to and claims priority to the following U.S.
Provisional Patent Applications: Serial No. 60/347,858, filed on
Nov. 7, 2001, entitled Laminated Panels and Processes; Serial No.
60/349,541, filed on Jan. 18, 2002, entitled Truss Panel; Serial
No. 60/358,857, filed on Feb. 22, 2002, entitled Compression Molded
Visor; Serial No. 60/359,017, filed on Feb. 22, 2002, entitled
Assemblies and Tooling for Work Surfaces; Serial No. 60/359,602,
filed on Feb. 26, 2002, entitled Compression Molded Visor, and
Serial No. 60/400,173, filed on Jul. 31, 2002, entitled Composite
Material. To the extent not included below, the subject matter
disclosed in these applications is hereby expressly incorporated
into the present application.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to fiber boards panels, and
more particularly fiber board laminated composites, uses and
structures, and processes of making the same.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY
[0003] Industry is consistently moving away from wood and metal
structural members and panels, particularly in the vehicle
manufacturing industry. Such wood and metal structural members and
panels have high weight to strength ratios. In other words, the
higher the strength of the wood and metal structural members and
panels, the higher the weight. The resulting demand for alternative
material structural members and panels has, thus, risen
proportionately. Because of their low weight to strength ratios, as
well as their corrosion resistance, such non-metallic panels have
become particularly useful as structural members in the vehicle
manufacturing industry as well as office structures industry, for
example.
[0004] Often such non-metallic materials are in the form of
composite structures or panels which are moldable into
three-dimensional shapes for use in any variety of purposes. It
would, thus, be beneficial to provide a composite material
structure that has high strength using oriented and/or non-oriented
fibers with bonding agents having compatible chemistries to provide
a strong bond across the composite's layers. It would be further
beneficial to provide a manufacturing and finish coating process
for such structures in some embodiments.
[0005] It will be appreciated that the prior art includes many
types of laminated composite panels and manufacturing processes for
the same. U.S. Pat. No. 4,539,253, filed on Mar. 30, 1984, entitled
High Impact Strength Fiber Resin Matrix Composites, U.S. Pat. No.
5,141,804, filed on May 22, 1990, entitled Interleaf Layer Fiber
Reinforced Resin Laminate Composites, U.S. Pat. No. 6,180,206 B1,
filed on Sep. 14, 1998, entitled Composite Honeycomb Sandwich Panel
for Fixed Leading Edges, U.S. Pat. No. 5,708,925, filed on May 10,
1996, entitled Multi-Layered Panel Having a Core Including Natural
Fibers and Method of Producing the Same, U.S. Pat. No. 4,353,947,
filed Oct. 5, 1981, entitled Laminated Composite Structure and
Method of Manufacture, U.S. Pat. No. 5,258,087, filed on Mar. 13,
1992, entitled Method of Making a Composite Structure, U.S. Pat.
No. 5,503,903, filed on Sep. 16, 1993, entitled Automotive
Headliner Panel and Method of Making Same, U.S. Pat. No. 5,141,583,
filed on Nov. 14, 1991, entitled Method of and Apparatus for
Continuously Fabricating Laminates, U.S. Pat. No. 4,466,847, filed
on May 6, 1983, entitled Method for the Continuous Production of
Laminates, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,486,256, filed on May 17, 1994,
entitled Method of Making a Headliner and the Like, are all
incorporated herein by reference to establish the nature and
characteristics of such laminated composite panels and
manufacturing processes herein.
[0006] Accordingly, the following disclosure provides a fibrous
moldable substrate comprising a mat. The mat comprises a fibrous
material and a binder. The fibers of the fibrous material are
randomly oriented. The fibrous material and binder is subjected to
heat such that only a portion of the binder is wetted to the
fibrous material.
[0007] Illustrative embodiments may provide the fibrous material
being hemp and/or kenaf; the fibrous material being about 50 weight
percent hemp and 50 weight percent kenaf; the mat being about 25
weight percent hemp, about 25 weight percent kenaf and about 50
weight percent the binder; the binder being a thermomelt binder;
the binder being polypropylene; the mat comprises about 24.75
weight percent hemp, about 24.75 weight percent kenaf, about 50
weight percent a polypropylene binder material and about 0.05
weight percent maleic anhydride; the mat being subjected to a
compression force where its cross-section is reduced; the mat
experiences insubstantial two-dimensional shrinkage while being
subjected to the heat; and the fibrous material being selected from
a group comprising hemp, kenaf, flax and jute.
[0008] Another embodiment of the disclosure provides a fibrous
moldable substrate also comprising a mat. The mat too comprises a
fibrous material and a binder. The fibers of the fibrous material
are randomly oriented. The fibrous material and binder is subjected
to heat such that only a portion of the binder is wetted to the
fibrous material and the binder become dimensionally stable when
cooled.
[0009] Illustrative embodiments may provide the fibrous material
being hemp and/or kenaf; the fibrous material being about 50 weight
percent hemp and 50 weight percent kenaf; the mat being about 25
weight percent hemp, about 25 weight percent kenaf and about 50
weight percent the binder; the binder being a thermomelt binder;
the binder being polypropylene; the mat comprises about 24.75
weight percent hemp, about 24.75 weight percent kenaf, about 50
weight percent a polypropylene binder material and about 0.05
weight percent maleic anhydride; the mat being subjected to a
compression force where its cross-section is reduced; the mat
experiencing insubstantial two-dimensional shrinkage while being
subjected to the heat; and the fibrous material is selected from a
group comprising hemp, kenaf, flax and jute.
[0010] Another embodiment of the disclosure too provides a fibrous
moldable substrate comprising a mat. The mat comprising a fibrous
material and a binder, wherein fibers of the fibrous material are
randomly oriented, and the fibrous material and binder is subjected
to heat such that only a portion of the binder is wetted to the
fibrous material;. In addition, the mat is semipermeable when
cooled.
[0011] Additional features and advantages of this disclosure will
become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of
the following detailed description of illustrated embodiments
exemplifying the best mode of carrying out such embodiments as
presently perceived.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0012] The present disclosure will be described hereafter with
reference to the attached drawings which are given as non-limiting
examples only, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is an exploded side view of a laminated hardboard
panel;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a side view of the laminated hardboard panel of
FIG. 1 in an illustrative-shaped configuration;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the laminated
hardboard panel of FIG. 1 showing partially-pealed plies of woven
and non-woven material layers;
[0016] FIG. 4 is another embodiment of a laminated hardboard
panel;
[0017] FIG. 5 is another embodiment of a laminated hardboard
panel;
[0018] FIG. 6 is another embodiment of a laminated hardboard
panel;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a honeycomb core laminated
panel;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a top, exploded view of the honeycomb section of
the panel of FIG. 7;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of the honeycomb
section of the panel of FIG. 7;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a truss core laminated
panel;
[0023] FIG. 11a is a side view of an illustrative hinged visor body
in the open position;
[0024] FIG. 11b is a detail view of the hinge portion of the visor
body of FIG. 11a;
[0025] FIG. 12a is a side view of an illustrative hinged visor body
in the folded position;
[0026] FIG. 12b is a detail view of the hinge portion of the visor
body of FIG. 12a;
[0027] FIG. 13 is an end view of a die assembly to compression mold
a fiber material body and hinge;
[0028] FIG. 14a is a top view of the visor body of FIGS. 11 and 12
in the open position;
[0029] FIG. 14b is an illustrative visor attachment rod;
[0030] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a wall panel comprising a
laminated panel body;
[0031] FIG. 16 is a work body;
[0032] FIG. 17 is a sectional end view of a portion of the work
body of FIG. 16 showing an illustrative connection between first
and second portions;
[0033] FIG. 18 is a sectional end view of a portion of the work
body of FIG. 16 showing another illustrative connection between
first and second portions;
[0034] FIG. 19 is a sectional end view of a portion of the work
body of FIG. 16 showing another illustrative connection between
first and second portions;
[0035] FIG. 20 is a side view of a hardboard manufacturing
line;
[0036] FIG. 21a is a top view of the hardboard manufacturing line
of FIG. 20;
[0037] FIG. 22 is a side view of the uncoiling and mating stages of
the hardboard manufacturing line of FIG. 20;
[0038] FIG. 23 is a side view of the pre-heating stage of the
hardboard manufacturing line of FIG. 20;
[0039] FIG. 24 is a side view of the heat, press and cooling stages
of the hardboard manufacturing line of FIG. 20;
[0040] FIG. 25 is a side view of a laminating station and shear and
trim stages as well as a finishing stage of the hardboard
manufacturing line of FIG. 20;
[0041] FIG. 26 is a top view of the laminating station and shear
and trim stages as well as the finishing stage of the hardboard
manufacturing line of FIG. 20;
[0042] FIG. 27 is a side view of a portion of the laminating
station stage of the hardboard manufacturing line of FIG. 20;
[0043] FIG. 28 is another top view of the shear and trim stages as
well as the finishing stage of the hardboard manufacturing line of
FIG. 20;
[0044] FIG. 29 is a top view of another embodiment of a laminated
hardboard manufacturing line;
[0045] FIG. 30 is a side view of the calendaring stage of the
hardboard manufacturing line of FIG. 29;
[0046] FIG. 31 is a diagrammatic and side view of a portion of a
materials recycling system;
[0047] FIG. 32 is a side view of a materials recycling system and
laminated hardboard manufacturing line;
[0048] FIG. 33 is a top view of the materials recycling system and
laminated hardboard manufacturing line of FIGS. 31 and 32;
[0049] FIG. 34 is a mechanical properties chart comparing the
tensile and flexural strength of an illustrative laminated
hardboard panel with industry standards;
[0050] FIG. 35 is a mechanical properties chart comparing the
flexural modulus of an illustrative laminated hardboard panel with
industry standards; and
[0051] FIGS. a through c36 are sectional views of the fibrous
material layer subjected to various amounts of heat and
pressure.
[0052] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several views. The exemplification set out
herein illustrates several embodiments, and such exemplification is
not to be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure in any
manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0053] An exploded side view of a laminated composite hardboard
panel 2 is shown in FIG. 1. Hardboard panel 2 illustratively
comprises a fascia cover stock 4 positioned as the surface layer of
panel 2. Fascia cover stock 4 may be comprised of fabric, vinyl,
leathers, acrylic, epoxies, or polymers, etc. It is appreciated,
however, that hardboard panel 2 may include, or not include, such a
fascia cover.
[0054] The laminated composite hardboard panel 2 illustratively
comprises a first sheet of fibrous material layer 6. Fibrous
material layer 6 illustratively comprises a natural fiber,
illustratively about 25 weight percent hemp and about 25 weight
percent kenaf with the balance being illustratively polypropylene.
The fibers are randomly oriented to provide a nonspecific
orientation of strength. Variations of this fibrous material are
contemplated including about 24.75 weight percent hemp and about
24.75 weight percent kenaf combination with about 50 weight percent
polypropylene and about 0.05 weight percent maleic anhydride. Other
such fibrous materials can be used as well, such as flax and jute.
It is also contemplated that other blend ratios of the fibrous
material can be used to provide a nonspecific orientation of
strength. It is further contemplated that other binders in place of
polypropylene may also be used for the purpose discussed further
herein. Furthermore, it is contemplated that other fibrous
materials which have high process temperatures in excess of about
400 degrees F., for example, may be used as well.
[0055] A woven fiber layer 8 illustratively comprises a woven glass
with a polypropylene binder, and is illustratively located between
the fibrous material layers 6. It is appreciated that other such
woven, non-metal fiber materials may be used in place of glass,
including nylon, Kevlar, fleece and other natural or synthetic
fibers. Such woven fiber provides bi-directional strength. In
contrast, the fibrous material layers 6 provide
nonspecific-directional strength, thus giving the resulting
composite enhanced multi-directional strength.
[0056] Each surface 10 of fibrous material layers 6 that is
adjacent to woven material layer 8 bonds to surfaces 12 of layer 8.
A bond is created between fibrous material layer 6 and woven
material layer 8 by a high temperature melt and pressure process as
discussed further herein. Because the glass and fibrous layers have
compatible binders (i.e., the polypropylene, or comparable binder),
layers 6, 8 will melt and bind, forming an amalgamated bond between
the same. Layers 6, 8 having polypropylene as a common chain in
each of their respective chemistries makes the layers compatible
and amenable to such three-dimensional molding, for example.
[0057] It is appreciated that panel 2 may comprise a plurality of
fibrous material layers 6, with woven material layers 8 laminated
between each pair of adjacent surfaces 10 and 12, respectively. A
pealed view of hardboard panel 2, shown in FIG. 3, illustrates such
combined use of woven and nonspecific-directional or
randomly-oriented fibers. The random fibers 14 make up fibrous
material layer 6, whereas the woven fibers 16 make up the fiber
layer 8. Because bulk mass can increase the strength of the panel,
it is contemplated that more alternating fibrous and woven fiber
layers used in the laminated composite will increase the strength
of the panel. The number of layers used, and which layer(s) will be
the exterior layer(s), can be varied, and is often dictated by the
requirements of the particular application. Testing was conducted
on illustrative hardboard panels to demonstrate tensile and
flexural strength. The hardboard laminated material consisted of a
first layer of 600 gram 80 percent polypropylene 20 percent
polyester fleece, a second layer of 650 gram fiberglass mix (75
percent 0.75 K glass/25 percent polypropylene and 10 percent maleic
anhydride), a third layer 1800 gram 25 percent hemp/25 percent
kenaf with 5 percent maleic anhydride and the balance
polypropylene, a fourth layer of the 650 g fiberglass mix, and a
fifth layer of the 600 g 80 percent polypropylene 20 percent
polyester fleece. This resulted in an approximate 4300 gram total
weight hardboard panel.
[0058] The final panel was formed by subjecting it to a 392 degrees
F. oven with a 6 millimeter gap and heated for about 400 seconds.
The material was then pressed using a 4.0 millimeter gap. The final
composite panel resulted in an approximate final thickness of 4.30
millimeter.
[0059] To determine such panel's tensile and flexural properties,
ASTM D 638-00 and ASTM D790-00 were used as guidelines. The panel
samples' shape and size conformed to the specification outlined in
the standards as closely as possible, but that the sample thickness
varied slightly, as noted above. A Tinius Olson Universal testing
machine using industry specific fixtures was used to carry out the
tests.
[0060] Two lauan boards were coated with a gelcoat finish and
formed into final 2.7 millimeter and 3.5 millimeter thickness
boards, respectively. These boards were used as a baseline for
comparison with the hardboard panel of the present disclosure. Each
of the samples were then cut to the shape and sizes pursuant the
above standards. The tensile and flexural properties of the lauan
boards were determined in the same manner as the hardboard panel
above. Once the results were obtained they were then charted
against the results of the hardboard panel for comparison, as shown
below and in FIGS. 34 and 35. The results herein represent the
average over 10 tested samples of each board.
1 Avg. Tensile Avg. Flexural Avg. Flexural Panel Description
Strength - psi Strength - psi Modulus - psi Hardboard panel 8,585
14,228 524,500 Industry standard - 5,883 9,680 1,045,700 FRP/2.7 mm
lauan Industry standard - 7,900 8,260 624,800 FRP/3.5 mm lauan
[0061] As depicted by FIG. 2, laminated panel 2 can be formed into
any desired shape by methods known to those skilled in the art. It
is appreciated that the three-dimensional molding characteristics
of several fibrous sheets in combination with the structural
support and strength characteristics of glass/polypropylene weave
materials located between pairs of the fibrous sheets will produce
a laminated composite material that is highly three-dimensionally
moldable while maintaining high tensile and flexural strengths.
Such a laminated panel is useful for the molding of structural wall
panel systems, structural automotive parts, highway trailer side
wall panels (exterior and interior), recreational vehicle side wall
panels (exterior and interior), automotive and building
construction load floors, roof systems, modular constructed wall
systems, and other such moldable parts. Such a panel may replace
styrene-based chemical set polymers, metal, tree cut lumber, and
other similar materials. It is believed that such a moldable
laminated panel can reduce part cost, improve air quality with
reduced use of styrene, and reduce part weight. Such a panel may
also be recyclable, thereby giving the material a presence of
sustainability.
[0062] Another embodiment of a hardboard panel 20 is shown in FIG.
4. This panel 20 comprises a fibrous material layer 6 serving as
the core, and is bounded by fiberglass layers 22 and fleece layers
24, as shown. For example, the fibrous material layer 6 may
comprise the conventional non-oriented fiber/polypropylene mix as
previously discussed, at illustratively 1800 or 2400 g weights. The
fiberglass layer comprises a 50 weight percent polypropylene/about
50 weight percent maleic anhydride (illustratively 400 g/m.sup.2)
mix. The fleece layer comprises an about 50 weight percent material
provides good adhesion with the polypropylene and is water-proof at
ambient conditions. Furthermore, the polyester is a compatible
partner with the polypropylene because it has a higher melt
temperature than the polypropylene. This means the polypropylene
can melt and bond with the other layer without adversely affecting
the polyester. In addition, the maleic anhydride is an effective
stiffening agent having high tensile and flexural strength which
increases overall strength of the panel.
[0063] It is contemplated that the scope of the invention herein is
not limited only to the aforementioned quantities, weights and
ratio mixes of material and binder. For example, the fleece layer
24 may comprise an about 80 weight percent polypropylene/about 20
weight percent polyester (illustratively 600 g/m.sup.2) mix. The
laminated composite panel 20 shown in FIG. 4 may include, for
example, both fleece layers 24 comprising the 50/50
polypropylene/polyester mix, or one layer 24 comprising the 50/50
polypropylene/polyester mix, or the 80/20 polypropylene/polyester
mix. In addition, same as panel 2, the binder used for panel 20 can
be any suitable binder such as polypropylene, for example.
[0064] Another embodiment of a laminated hardboard panel 28 is
shown in FIG. 5. This panel 28 comprises a fibrous material layer 6
serving as the core which is bounded by fleece layers 24, as shown.
As with panel 20, the fibrous material layer 6 of panel 28 may
comprise the conventional, non-oriented fiber/polypropylene mix as
previously discussed, at illustratively 1800 or 2400 g weights.
Each fleece layer 24 may comprise an about 50 weight percent
polypropylene/about 50 weight percent polyester (illustratively 300
g/m.sup.2) mix, or may alternatively be an about 80 weight percent
polypropylene/about 20 weight percent polyester (illustratively 600
g/m.sup.2) mix. Or, still alternatively, one fleece layer 24 may be
the 50/50 mix and the other fleece layer 24 may be the 80/20 mix,
for example.
[0065] Another embodiment of a laminated hardboard panel 30 is
shown in FIG. 6. This panel 30, similar to panel 20 shown in FIG.
4, comprises a fibrous material layer 6 serving as the core which
is bounded by fiberglass layers 22 and fleece layers 24. The
formulations for and variations of the fleece layer 24, the
fiberglass layers 22 and the fibrous material layer 6 may comprise
the formulations described in the embodiment of panel 20 shown in
FIG. 4. Laminated panel 30 further comprises a calendared surface
32, and illustratively, a prime painted or coated surface 34. The
calendaring process assists in making a Class A finish for
automobile bodies. A Class A finish is a finish that can be exposed
to weather elements and still maintain its aesthetics and quality.
For example, an embodiment of the coated surface 34 contemplated
herein is designed to satisfy the General Motors Engineering
standard for exterior paint performance: GM4388M, rev. June 2001.
The process for applying the painted or coated finish is described
with reference to the calendaring process further herein below.
[0066] Further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure
provides a moldable panel material, for use as a headliner, for
example, comprising the following constituents by weight
percentage:
[0067] about 10 weight percent polypropylene fibers consisting of
polypropylene (about 95 weight percent) coupled with maleic
anhydride (about 5 weight percent), though it is contemplated that
other couplers may work as well;
[0068] about 15 weight percent kenaf (or similar fibers such as
hemp, flax, jute, etc.) fiber pre-treated with an
anti-fungal/anti-microbial agent containing about 2 weight percent
active ingredient; wherein the fibers may be pre-treated off-line
prior to blending;
[0069] about 45 weight percent bi-component (about 4 denier)
polyester fiber; wherein the bi-component blend ratio is about 22.5
weight percent high melt (about 440 degrees F.) polyester and about
22.5 weight percent low melt polyester (about 240 to about 300
degrees F. which is slightly below full melt temperature of
polypropylene to permit control of polypropylene movement during
heat phase); wherein, alternatively, like fibers of similar
chemistry may also be used; and
[0070] about 30 weight percent single component polyester fiber
(about 15 denier) high melt (about 440 degrees F.); wherein,
alternatively, like fibers of similar chemistry may be used.
[0071] Again, such a material can be used as a headliner. This is
because the formulation has a higher heat deflection created by
stable fibers and high melt polypropylene, and by polyester and the
cross-linked polymer to the polymer of the fibers. Furthermore,
coupled polypropylene has cross-linked with non-compatible
polyester low melt to form a common melt combined polymer
demonstrating higher heat deflection ranges. The anti-fungal
treated natural fiber protects any cellulous in the fiber from
colonizing molds for the life of the product should the head liner
be exposed to high moisture conditions.
[0072] It is appreciated that other formulations can work as well.
For example, another illustrative embodiment may comprise about 40
percent bi-component fiber with 180 degree C. melt temperature,
about 25 percent single component PET-15 denier; about 15 percent
G3015 polypropylene and about 20 percent fine grade natural fiber.
Another illustrative embodiment may comprise about 45 percent
bi-component fiber semi-crystalline 170 degree C. melt temperature,
about 20 percent single component PET-15 denier, about 15 percent
low melt flow (10-12 mfi) polypropylene and about 20 percent fine
grade natural fiber. It is further contemplated that such
compositions disclosed herein may define approximate boundaries of
usable formulation ranges of each of the constituent materials.
[0073] A cutaway view of a honeycomb composite panel 40 is shown in
FIG. 7. The illustrated embodiment comprises top and bottom panels,
42, 44, with a honeycomb core 46 located there between. One
illustrative embodiment provides for a polypropylene honeycomb core
sandwiched between two panels made from a randomly-oriented fibrous
material. The fibrous material is illustratively about 30 weight
percent fiber and about 70 weight percent polypropylene. The fiber
material is illustratively comprised of about 50 weight percent
kenaf and about 50 weight percent hemp. It is contemplated,
however, that any hemp-like fiber, such as flax or other
cellulose-based fiber, may be used in place of the hemp or the
kenaf. In addition, such materials can be blended at any other
suitable blend ratio to create such suitable panels.
[0074] In one illustrative embodiment, each panel 42, 44 is
heat-compressed into the honeycomb core 46. The higher
polypropylene content used in the panels provides for more thermal
plastic available for creating a melt bond between the panels and
the honeycomb core. During the manufacturing of such panels 40, the
heat is applied to the inner surfaces 48, 50 of panels 42, 44,
respectively. The heat melts the polypropylene on the surfaces
which can then bond to the polypropylene material that makes up the
honeycomb core. It is appreciated, however, that other ratios of
fiber to polypropylene or other bonding materials can be used, so
long as a bond can be created between the panels and the core. In
addition, other bonding materials, such as an adhesive, can be used
in place of polypropylene for either or both the panels and the
core, so long as the chemistries between the bonding materials
between the panels and the core are compatible to create a
sufficient bond.
[0075] A top detail view of the one illustrative embodiment of
honeycomb core 46 is shown in FIG. 8. This illustrative embodiment
comprises individually formed bonded ribbons 52. Each ribbon 52 is
formed in an illustrative battlement-like shape having alternating
merlons 54 and crenellations 56. Each of the corners 58, 60 of each
merlon 54 is illustratively thermally-bonded to each corresponding
corner 62, 64, respectively, of each crenellation 56. Such bonds 66
which illustratively run the length of the corners are shown in
FIG. 9. Successive rows of such formed and bonded ribbons 52 will
produce the honeycomb structure, as shown.
[0076] Another embodiment of the honeycomb composite panel
comprises a fibrous material honeycomb core in place of the
polypropylene honeycomb core. Illustratively, the fibrous material
honeycomb core may comprise about 70 weight percent polypropylene
with about 30 weight percent fiber, for example, similar to that
used for top and bottom panels 42, 44, previously discussed, or
even a 50/50 weight percent mix. Such formulations are illustrative
only, and other formulations that produce a high strength board are
also contemplated herein.
[0077] A perspective view of a truss composite 70 is shown in FIG.
10. Truss panel composite 70 is a light weight, high strength panel
for use in either two- or three-dimensional body panel
applications. The illustrated embodiment of truss composite 70
comprises upper and lower layers 72, 74, respectively, which
sandwich truss member core 76. Each of the layers 72, 74, 76 is
made from a combination fibrous/polypropylene material, similar to
that described in foregoing embodiments. Each layer 72, 74, 76
comprises a non-directional fibrous material, illustratively, about
25 weight percent hemp and about 25 weight percent kenaf with the
balance being polypropylene. The fibers are randomly oriented to
provide a non-specific orientation of strength. Illustrative
variations of this fibrous material are contemplated, which may
include, for example, an approximately 24.75 weight percent hemp
and 24.75 weight percent kenaf combination with 50 weight percent
polypropylene and 0.05 weight percent maleic anhydride. Other
ratios of fibrous materials, however, are also contemplated to be
within the scope of the invention. In addition, other fibrous
materials themselves are contemplated to be within the scope of the
invention. Such materials may be flax, jute, or other like fibers
that can be blended in various ratios, for example. Additionally,
it is appreciated that other binders in place of polypropylene may
also be used to accomplish the utility contemplated herein.
[0078] The truss core 76 is illustratively formed with a plurality
of angled support portions 78, 80 for beneficial load support and
distribution. In the illustrated embodiment, support portion 78 is
oriented at a shallower angle relative to upper and lower layers
72, 74, respectively, than support portion 80 which is oriented at
a steeper angle. It is appreciated that such support portions can
be formed by using a stamping die, continuous forming tool, or
other like method. It is further appreciated that the thickness of
any of the layers 72, 74, or even the truss core 76 can be adjusted
to accommodate any variety of load requirements. In addition, the
separation between layers 72, 74 can also be increased or decreased
to affect its load strength.
[0079] Between each support portion is an alternating contact
portion, either 82, 84. The exterior surface of each of the
alternating contact portions 82, 84 is configured to bond to one of
the inner surfaces 86, 88 of layers 72, 74, respectively. To create
the bond between layers 72, 74 and truss core 76, superficial
surface heat, about 450 degrees F. for polypropylene, is applied to
the contact surfaces to melt the surface layer of polypropylene,
similar to the process discussed further herein. At this
temperature, the polypropylene or other binder material is melted
sufficiently to bond same with the polypropylene of the core. In
this illustrative embodiment, contact portion 82 bonds to the
surface 86 of upper layer 72, and contact portion 84 bonds to the
surface 88 of layer 74. Once solidified, a complete bond will be
formed without the need for an additional adhesive. It is
appreciated, however, that an adhesive may be used in place of
surface heat bonding.
[0080] The outer surfaces of layers 72, 74 may be configured to
accommodate a fascia cover stock (not shown). Such fascia cover
stock may be comprised of fabric, vinyl, acrylic, leathers,
epoxies, or polymers, paint, etc. In addition, the surfaces of
layer 72, 74 may be treated with a polyester to waterproof the
panel.
[0081] An end view of a hinged visor body 90 is shown in FIG. 11a.
This disclosure illustrates a visor, similar to a sun visor used in
an automobile. It is appreciated, however, that such a visor body
90 is disclosed herein for illustrative purposes, and it is
contemplated that the visor does not represent the only application
of a formed hinged body. It is contemplated that such is applicable
to any other application that requires an appropriate hinged
body.
[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, body 90 comprises body
portions 92, 94 and a hinge 96 positioned therebetween. (See FIGS.
11b and 12b.) Body 90 is illustratively made from a low density
fibrous material, as further described herein below. In one
embodiment, the fibrous material may comprise a randomly-oriented
fiber, illustratively about 50 weight percent fiber-like hemp or
kenaf with about 50 weight percent polypropylene. The material is
subjected to hot air and to variable compression zones to produce
the desired structure. (See further, FIG. 13.) Another illustrative
embodiment comprises about 25 weight percent hemp and about 25
weight percent kenaf with the balance being polypropylene. Again,
all of the fibers are randomly oriented to provide a non-specific
orientation of strength. Other variations of this composition are
contemplated including, but not limited to, about a 24.75 weight
percent hemp and about a 24.75 weight percent kenaf combination
with about 50 weight percent polypropylene and about 0.05 weight
percent maleic anhydride. Additionally, other fibrous materials are
contemplated to be within the scope of this disclosure, such as
flax and jute in various ratios, as well as the fibers in various
other blend ratios. It is also appreciated that other binders in
place of polypropylene may also be used for the utility discussed
herein.
[0083] The illustrated embodiment of body 90 comprises hinge
portion 96 allowing adjacent body portions 92, 94 to move relative
to each other. The illustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 11a and b
depicts body 90 in the unfolded position. This embodiment comprises
body portions 92, 94 having a thickness such that hinge portion 96
is provided adjacent depressions 98, 100 on the surface body
portions 92, 94, respectively. Because body 90 is a unitary body,
the flexibility of hinge portion 96 is derived from forming same
into a relatively thin member, as herein discussed below. In such
folding situations as shown in FIG. 12a, material adjacent the
hinge may interfere with the body's ability to fold completely.
These depressions 98, 100 allow body portions 92, 94 to fold as
shown in FIG. 12a, without material from said body portions
interfering therewith. As shown in FIG. 12b, a cavity 102 is formed
when body portions 92, 94 are folded completely. It is
contemplated, however, that such occasions may arise wherein it may
not be desired to remove such material adjacent hinge portion 96,
as depicted with depressions 98, 100. Such instances is
contemplated to be within the scope of this disclosure.
[0084] In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 11b, hinge
portion 96 forms an arcuate path between body portions 92, 94. The
radii assists in removing a dimple that may occur at the hinge when
the hinge is at about 180 degrees of bend. As shown in FIG. 12b,
hinge portion 96 loses some of its arcuate shape when the body
portions 92, 94 are in the folded position. It is appreciated,
however, that such a hinge 96 is not limited to the arcuate shape
shown in FIG. 11a. Rather, hinge portion 96 may be any shape so
long as it facilitates relative movement between two connecting
body portions. For example, hinge portion 96 may be linear shaped.
The shape of the hinge portion may also be influenced by the size
and shape of the body portions, as well as the desired amount of
movement between said body portions.
[0085] Illustratively, in addition to, or in lieu of, the fibrous
material forming the visor hinge via high pressure alone, the hinge
may also be formed by having a band of material removed at the
hinge area. In one illustrative embodiment, a hinge having a band
width about 1/8 inch wide and a removal depth of about 70 weight
percent of thickness mass allows the hinge full compression
thickness after molding of about 0.03125 inch, for example. The
convex molding of the hinge may straighten during final folding
assembly, providing a straight mid line edge between the two final
radiuses. It is contemplated that the mold for the mirror
depressions, etc., plus additional surface molding details can be
achieved using this process. It is further anticipated that the
cover stock may be applied during the molding process where the
cover is bonded to the visor by the polypropylene contained in the
fibrous material formulation.
[0086] The illustrative embodiment of body 90 includes
longitudinally-extending depressions 93, 95 which form a cavity 97.
(See FIGS. 11a, 12a and 14a.) Cavity 97 is configured to receive
bar 99, as discussed further herein. (See FIG. 14b.) It is
appreciated that such depressions and cavities described herein
with respect to body 90 are for illustrative purposes. It is
contemplated that any design requiring such a moldable body and
hinge can be accomplished pursuant the present disclosure
herein.
[0087] As previously discussed, body 90 may be comprised of low
density material to allow variable forming geometry in the visor
structure, i.e., high and low compression zones for allowing
pattern forming. For example, the panels portion may be a low
compression zone, whereas the hinge portion is a high compression
zone. In addition, the high compression zone may have material
removed illustratively by a saw cut during production, if required,
as also previously discussed. This allows for a thinner high
compression zone which facilitates the ability for the material to
be flexed back and forth without fatiguing, useful for such a hinge
portion.
[0088] An end view of a die assembly 110 for compression molding a
fiber material body and hinge is shown in FIG. 13. The form of the
die assembly 110 shown is of an illustrative shape. It is
contemplated that such a body 90 can be formed into any desired
shape. In the illustrated embodiment, assembly 110 comprises
illustrative press plates 112, 114. Illustratively, dies 116, 118
are attached to plates 112, 114, respectively. Die 116 is formed to
mirror corresponding portion of body 90. It is appreciated that
because the view of FIG. 13 is an end view, the dies can be
longitudinally-extending to any desired length. This illustrative
embodiment of die 116 includes surfaces 120, 122 and includes
compression zones 124, 126, 128, 130. Zones 124, 126 are
illustratively protrusions that help form the depressions 93, 95,
respectively, of body 90, as shown. (See also FIG. 11a) Zones 128,
130 are illustratively protrusions that help form the depressions
98, 100, respectively, of body 90, as shown. (See also FIG. 11a.)
And zone 132 is illustratively a form that, in cooperation with
zone 134 of die 118, form hinge portion 96.
[0089] This illustrative embodiment of die 118 includes surfaces
136, 138 and includes compression zones 140, 142, 134. Zones 140,
142 are illustratively sloped walls that help form zone 134. (See
also FIG. 11a.) Zone 134 is illustratively a peak that, in
cooperation with zone 132 creates a high compression zone to form
hinge portion 96, and, illustratively, depressions 98, 100, if
desired. Again, it is appreciated that the present pattern of such
zones shown is not the only such pattern contemplated by this
disclosure.
[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, body 90, in the illustrative
form of a hinged visor, is folded as that shown in FIG. 12a. It is
further contemplated that during forming the body may be heated by
hot air to bring it up to forming temperatures. The heating cycle
time may be about 32 seconds, and the toll time after clamp for
cool down will be around 45 to 50 seconds, depending on tool
temperature. Furthermore, skins, like a fabric skin can be bonded
to the visor during this step.
[0091] Another embodiment of the hardboard panel is a low density
panel, illustratively, an approximately 2600 gram panel with about
50 weight percent fiber-like hemp, kenaf, or other fiber material
with about 50 weight percent polypropylene. Such materials are
subjected to hot air to produce a light-weight, low density panel.
The panel material may be needle-punched or have a stretched skin
surface applied thereon for use as a tackable panel, wall board,
ceiling tile, or interior panel-like structure.
[0092] A portion of a dry-erase board 150 is shown in FIG. 15. Such
a board 150 may comprise a hardboard panel 152 (similar to panel 2)
pursuant the foregoing description along with a surface coating
154. The surface coating, as that described further herein,
provides an optimum work surface as a dry-erase board. Surface
coating 154, for example, can be a Class A finish previously
described. This illustrative embodiment includes a frame portion
156 to enhance the aesthetics of board 150. One embodiment may
comprise a dual-sided board with a low density tack board on one
side and a dry-erase hardboard on the other side.
[0093] An illustrative embodiment of a work body in the form of a
table top 180, is shown in FIG. 16. The view illustrated therein is
a partial cut-away view showing the mating of a top 182 to an
underside 184. An illustrative pedestal 186 supports table top 180
in a conventional manner. It is appreciated, however, that the
table top 180 is shown in an exaggerated view relative to pedestal
186 so as to better illustrate the relevant detail of the table top
180.
[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the periphery 188 of top 182
is arcuately formed to create a work surface edging. The top 182 is
attached to the underside 184 via a portion of the periphery 190 of
the same mating with the top 182. Periphery 190 illustratively
comprises an arcuate edge portion 192 which is complimentarily
shaped to the interior surface 194 of periphery 188 of top 182.
Adjacent the arcuate edge portion 192 is an illustrative stepped
portion 196. Stepped portion 196 provides a notch 198 by extending
the underside panel 202 of the underside 184 downward with respect
to top 182. Notch 198 provides spacing for edge 200 of periphery
188. Such an arrangement provides an appearance of a generally
flush transition between top 182 and underside 184. Interior
surface 194 of periphery 188 and outer surface 204 of periphery 190
can be mated and attached via any conventional method. For example,
the surfaces can be ionize-charged to relax the polypropylene so
that an adhesive can bond the structures. In addition, a
moisture-activated adhesive can be used to bond the top 182 with
the underside 184.
[0095] Detailed views of the mating of top 182 and underside 184 is
shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. The conformity between peripheries 188
and 190 are evident from these views. Such allows sufficient
bonding between top 182 and underside 184. The generally flush
appearance between the transition of top 182 and underside 184 is
evident as well through these views. The variations between
illustrative embodiments are depicted in FIGS. 17 and 18. For
example, top surface 206 is substantially coaxial with level plane
208 in FIG. 17, whereas top surface 206 is angled with respect to
level plane 208. It is appreciated, as well, that the disclosure is
not intended to be limited to the shapes depicted in the drawings.
Rather, other complimentarily-shaped mating surfaces that produce
such a transition between such top and bottom panels are
contemplated to be within the scope of the invention herein.
[0096] Such mating of top 182 and underside 184 may produce a
cavity 210, as shown in FIGS. 16 through 19. Depending on the
application, cavity 210 may remain empty, or may contain a
structure. For example, FIG. 19 shows an end view of table top 180
with a truss member core support 76 illustratively located therein.
Truss member core 76 can be of the type previously described and be
attached to the interior surfaces 194, 212 via conventional means,
such as an adhesive, for example. Such a core structure can provide
increased strength to table top 180. In fact, such strength can
expand the uses of the work body to other applications in addition
to a table top. For example, such can be used as a flooring, or
side paneling for a structure or a vehicle. It is contemplated that
other such cores can be used in place of the truss member. For
example, a foam core or honeycomb core can be used in place of the
truss.
[0097] An illustrative hardboard manufacturing line 300 is shown in
FIGS. 20 through 28. Line 300 is for manufacturing laminated
hardboard panels of the type shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, and
indicated by reference numeral 2, for example. The manufacturing
process comprises the mating of the several layers of materials,
illustratively layers 6 and 8 (see FIG. 1), heating and pressing
said layers into a single laminated composite panel, cooling the
panel, and then trimming same. In the illustrative embodiment, line
300 comprises the following primary stages: uncoiling and mating
302 (FIG. 22), pre-heating 304 (FIG. 23), heat and press 306 (FIG.
24), cooling 308 (also FIG. 24), laminating station (FIGS. 25
through 28), and shear and trim 310 (also FIGS. 25 through 28.) A
top view of line 300 is shown in FIG. 21. It is appreciated that
the line 300 may be of a width that corresponds to a desired width
of the composite material. FIG. 21 also illustrates the tandem
arrangement of each of the stages 302, 304, 306, 308, 310.
[0098] The uncoiling and mating stage 302 is shown in FIG. 22. In
the illustrative embodiment, the materials used for forming the
composite are provided in rolls. It is appreciated that the
materials may be supplied in another manner, but for purposes of
the illustrated embodiment, the material will be depicted as rolls.
Illustratively, stage 302 holds rolls of each illustrative layer 6
and 8 in preparation for mating. As illustrated, stage 302
comprises a plurality of troughs 312 through 320, each of which
being illustratively capable of holding two rolls, a primary roll
and a back-up roll, for example. In one embodiment, it is
contemplated that any number of troughs can be used, and such
number may be dependent on the number of layers used in the
laminated body.
[0099] For this illustrative embodiment, line 300 is configured to
manufacture a laminated composite panel 2 similar to that shown in
FIGS. 1 through 3. It is appreciated, however, that the utility of
line 302 is not limited to making only that panel. Rather, such a
line is also capable of manufacturing any laminated panel that
requires at least one of the stages as described further herein.
Troughs 312, 316, and 320 each comprise a primary roll 6' and a
back-up roll 6" of layer 6. In this example, layer 6 is
illustratively a non-oriented fibrous material. Similarly, troughs
314 and 318 each comprise a primary roll 8' and a back-up roll 8"
of layer 8 which is illustratively the woven fiber layer. Each roll
rests on a platform system 322 which comprises a sensor 324 and a
stitching device 326. Sensor 324 detects the end of one roll to
initiate the feed of the back-up roll. This allows the rolls to
create one large continuous sheet. For example, once fibrous
material primary roll 6' is completely consumed by line 302, and
sensor 324 detects the end of that primary roll 6' and causes the
beginning of back-up roll 6" to join the end of primary roll 6'.
This same process works with primary roll 8' and back-up roll 8" as
well.
[0100] To secure each roll of a particular material together,
stitching device 326 stitches, for example, the end of primary
rolls 6' or 8' with the beginning of the back-up rolls 6" or 8",
respectively. The stitched rolls produce a secure bond between
primary rolls 6', 8' and back-up rolls 6" and 8", respectively,
thereby forming the single continuous roll. Illustratively,
stitching device 326 trims and loop stitches the ends of the
materials to form the continuous sheet. Also, illustratively, the
thread used to stitch the rolls together is made from polypropylene
or other similar material that can partially melt during the
heating stages, thereby creating a high joint bond in the final
panel. It is contemplated, however, any suitable threads can be
used which may or may not be of a polymer.
[0101] Each trough of stage 302 is configured such that, as the
material is drawn from the rolls, each will form one of the layers
of the laminated composite which ultimately becomes the hardboard
panel. Fibrous material layer 6 of primary roll 6' from trough 312
illustratively forms the top layer with the material from each
successive trough 314 through 320, providing alternating layers of
layers 6 and 8 layering underneath, as shown exiting at 321 in FIG.
22. Each roll of material is illustratively drawn underneath the
troughs exiting in direction 327. The resulting layered materials
exit stage 302 at 321, pass over bridge 328, and enter the
pre-heating stage 304.
[0102] Pre-heat stage 304, as shown in FIG. 23, comprises an oven
323 which forces hot air at approximately 240 degrees F. into the
composite layers. Oven 323 comprises a heater-blower 330 which
directs heated air into composite chamber 332 which receives the
material layers. This hot air removes moisture from layers 6, 8, as
well as heats the center-most layers of the same. Because often
such materials are hydrophobic, the removal of the moisture causes
the center of the materials to cool. The forced heat causes the
center to be warmed, even while the moisture is being removed. This
pre-heat allows the process to become more efficient during the
heat and press stage 306. Stage 308 illustratively comprise a
roller/belt system which includes rollers 333 that move belts 335,
as shown in FIG. 23. Illustratively, these belts are located above
and below the panel 2, defining at least a portion of chamber 332.
Belts 335 assist in urging panel 2 through stage 304 and on to
stage 306.
[0103] The preheated composite layers exit through opening 334 of
stage 304 and enter the heat and press stage 306, as shown in FIG.
24. The pre-heated composite panel 2 enters stage 306 through
opening 336 and into chamber 337. The heat and press stage 306,
uses a progression of increasingly narrowly-spaced rollers located
between heat zones, thereby reducing the vertical spacing in
chamber 337. The combination of the heat and the narrowing rollers
reduces the thickness of panel 2 transforming same into a laminated
composite panel 2 of desired thickness. For example, stage 306
comprises pairs of spaced rollers 338, 340, 342, 344, 346, 348
through which the composite layers pass. The rollers are linearly
spaced apart as shown in FIG. 24. In one illustrative embodiment,
to make a 4 millimeter panel, rollers 338 will initially be spaced
apart about 15 millimeters. Successively, rollers 340 will be
spaced apart about 12 millimeters, rollers 342 will be spaced apart
about 9 millimeters, rollers 344 will be space apart about 6
millimeters, and finally, rollers 346 and 348 will be each spaced
apart about 4 millimeters. This gradual progression of pressure
reduces stress on the rollers, as well as the belts 350, 352
driving the rollers. Such belts 350, 352 generally define the top
and bottom of chamber 337 through which panel 2 travels. Because of
the less stress that is applied to belts 350 and 352 which drive
rollers 338, 340, 342, 344, 346, 348, such belts 350, 352 can be
made from such materials as Teflon glass, rather than conventional
materials such as a metal. The Teflon belts absorb less heat than
metal belts do, so more of the heat generated will be transferred
to the to the lamination of panel 2, in contrast to production
lines using conventional metal belts. In one illustrative
embodiment, stages 306 and 308 are approximately 10 meters long and
approximately 4 meters wide.
[0104] In one illustrative embodiment, located between every two
pairs of rollers are a pair of surfaces or platens 354, 356 between
which the panel 2 moves during the lamination process.
Illustratively, platens 354, 356 receive hot oil or similar fluid.
It is appreciated, however, that other methods of heating the
platens can be used. In the present embodiment, however, the hot
oil causes the platens 354, 356 to raise the core temperature of
the panel 2 to about 340 degrees F. The combination of the
compression force generated by the rollers 338, 340, 342, 344, 346,
348 and the heat generated by the platens 354, 356 causes the
polypropylene in the material layers 6, 8 to melt, causing same to
begin fusing and compacting into the panel 2 of desired
thickness.
[0105] After the layers 6, 8 of the composite panel 2 is heated,
fused, and reduced to a desired thickness, the resulting composite
panel 2 is cooled at cooling stage 308. In the illustrated
embodiment, cooling stage 308 is an extension of the heat and press
stage 306 to the extent that stage 308 also includes pairs of
rollers 358, 360, 362, 364, 366 which are similarly situated to,
and arranged linearly with, rollers 338, 340, 342, 344, 346, 348.
The space between each of the rollers is about the same as the
space between the last pair of rollers of the heat and press stage
306, in this case rollers 348. In the forgoing example, the rollers
348 were illustratively spaced apart about 4 millimeters.
Accordingly, the spacing between the rollers of each pair of
rollers 358, 360, 362, 364, 366 of stage 308, through which the
panel passes, is also spaced apart about 4 millimeters. Cooling
stage 308 treats platens 372 through 406 that are cooled with cold
water, illustratively at approximately 52 degrees F., rather than
being treated with hot oil, as is the case with heat and press
stage 306. This cooling stage rapidly solidifies the melted
polypropylene, thereby producing a rigid laminated hardboard panel
2.
[0106] Hardboard panel 2 exits the cooling stage 308 at exit 408,
as shown in FIG. 24, and enters the shear and trim stage 310, as
shown in FIGS. 25 through 28. In one illustrative embodiment,
composite panel 2 passes through an interior wall laminating stage
410 and into the trim and cutting stage 412. When panel 2 passes
through stage 412, its edges can be trimmed to a desired width and
the panel cut to any desired length with the panel exiting to
platform 414. A top view of line 300 is shown in FIG. 21 which
includes the various aforementioned stages 302, 304, 306, 308, 310
as well as finishing a stage 416. This stage 416 is illustratively
for applying an acrylic or other like resin finish to the surface
of the composite panel. Specifically, once such a composite panel 2
exits the shear and trim stage 310, it is supported on a plurality
of rollers 418 and placed along the length of platform 414 to move
panel 2 in direction 420. In one illustrative embodiment, panel 2
may be rotated into position, as shown in FIG. 28, to finishing
stage 416. To rotate panel 2, movable catches 422, 424, one at the
proximal end of platform 414 and the other at the distal end of
platform 414, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 28, both move concurrently
to move panel 2. Catch 422 moves a corner of panel 2 in direction
420 while catch 424 moves the other corner of panel 2 in direction
426, ultimately positioning panel 2 on platform 415 at stage 416.
It is appreciated, however, that it is not required to locate such
a finishing stage at an angle relative to line 300. Alternatively,
stage 416 may be located linearly with the remainder of line
300.
[0107] Illustratively, before applying the acrylic finish to panel
2 at stage 416, its surface is first prepared. The illustrative
process for preparing the surface of panel 2 is first sanding the
surface to accept the finish coat. After sanding the surface of
panel 2, a wet coating of the resin is applied. Illustratively, the
resin is polyurethane. The acrylic resin can then be UV cured, if
necessary. Such curing is contemplated to take as much as 24 hours,
if necessary. Initial cooling, however, can take only three
seconds. Such an acrylic coating has several uses, one is the
dry-erase board surface, previously discussed, as well as exterior
side wall panels for recreational vehicles and pull type trailers.
It is further contemplated herein that other surface coatings can
be applied at stage 416 as known by those skilled in the art.
[0108] In another illustrative embodiment, interior wall laminating
stage 410, though part of line 300, can be used to create wall
panel composites from panel 2. When making such panel, rather than
panel 2 passing through stage 410, as previously discussed panel 2
is laminated at stage 410. In this illustrative embodiment, as
shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, for example, stage 412 comprises an
uncoiling hopper 430, a hot air blower 432, and a roller stage 434.
Hopper 430 is configured to support illustratively two rolls of
material. For this illustrative embodiment, a base substrate layer
436, and a finish surface material layer 438 is located in hopper
430. It is appreciated that the base substrate layer 436 can be any
suitable material, including the fibrous material layer 6 as
previously discussed or a priming surface material. The finish
surface material layer 438 can be of any finishing or surface
material such as vinyl, paper, acrylic, or fabric. Uncoiling hopper
430 operates similar to that of stage 302 to the extent that they
both uncoil rolls of material. Hopper 430 operates differently from
stage 302, however, to the extent that both layers 436 and 438
uncoil concurrently, rather than in tandem, like rolls 6' and 6",
for example. In other words, both layers 436, 438 will form the
layers of the composite top coat, rather than form a single
continuous layer for a board, as is the case with roll 6' and
6".
[0109] In the illustrative embodiment, base substrate layer 436
uncoils below the finish surface material layer 438, as shown in
FIGS. 26 and 27. In addition, both layer 436 and layer 438 form a
composite as they enter roller stage 434. The hot air blower 432
blows hot air 448 at approximately 450 degrees F. in direction 448
between layer 436 and layer 438. This causes the surfaces,
particularly the base material layer 436 surface, to melt. For
example, if the base substrate layer 436 is fibrous material layer
6, the polypropylene on the surface of this material melts. As
layer 436 and layer 438 pass between a pair of rollers 450 at the
roller stage 434, the melted polypropylene of layer 436 bonds with
the layer 438, forming a composite of fibrous material having the
finish surface material 438. After the materials have formed a
laminated composite, they can then proceed to the shear and trim
stage 310.
[0110] It is contemplated that finish surface material layer 438
may comprise several finish materials applied to base material
layer 436 either concurrently or in tandem. For example, a roll of
material layer 438 may comprise a roll that includes a section of
vinyl, attached to a section of paper, and then fabric, and then
vinyl again. Uncoiling this roll and bonding it to layer 436
produces a single composite board having several tandemly
positioned finish surfaces that can be sheared and cut at stage 310
as desired.
[0111] Another illustrative hardboard manufacturing line 500 is
shown in FIGS. 29 and 30. Line 500 is another embodiment for
manufacturing laminated hardboard panels of the type illustratively
shown in FIGS. 4 through 6. This manufacturing line 500 is similar
to manufacturing line 300 previously discussed, wherein process 500
comprises the mating of several layers of materials, illustratively
layers 22, 24, as well as the calendaring surface 32 and coated
surface 34, as shown illustratively in panel 30 of FIG. 6.
Manufacturing line 500 comprises the following panel manufacturing
stages: the uncoiling and mating stages 502, the pre-heating stage
504, the heat and press stage 506, the cooling stage 508, the
calendaring stage 510, and the shear and trim stage 512.
[0112] One illustrative embodiment of line 500 comprises a
calendaring stage 510. This stage is located in the same location
as the laminating stage 410 of line 300, as shown in FIG. 25. The
purpose of the calendaring stage is to smooth the top surface of
the illustrative panel 30 to prepare it for the paint application
of line 514. Conventionally, using belts 350, 352 in conjunction
with the heated platens may cause the texture of those belts,
similar to a cloth pattern, to be embedded in the surfaces of the
panel 30. (See, also, FIG. 24.) The calendaring process removes
this pattern to provide a smoother surface in anticipation of the
paint application. In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIG. 30,
calendaring stage 510 comprises a conveying line 570 and spaced
apart rollers 572, as well as a heat source 574. As panel 30 exits
the cooling stage 508, it is transferred to the calendaring stage
510 where the heat source, illustratively infrared heat or heated
air, or a combination of both, is applied to the surface of the
panel 30. Panel 30 is then directed between the two spaced apart
rollers 572 which will then smooth the surface that has been heated
by heater 574. In one embodiment, it is contemplated that at least
one of the rollers is temperature controlled, illustratively with
water, to maintain the rollers up to an approximate 120 degrees F.
It is further contemplated that the heated air or IR heater is
controlled to only heat the surface of panel 30 and not the center
of the board itself. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the
roller can subject up to an approximate 270 pounds per linear inch
force on the surface of the panel 30 in order to smooth out any
pattern in the surface and/or related defects thereon to produce a
calendared surface 32 as previously discussed with respect to FIG.
6. It will be appreciated that this calendaring process will
prepare the surface 32 of panel 30 so that it may receive a Class A
auto finish. Once the panel 30 exits the calendaring stage 510, it
then is transferred to the shear and trim stage 512 where the panel
will take its final shape prior to the paint stage.
[0113] In contrast to manufacturing line 300, however, line 500
further comprises paint application line 514. Paint line 514
comprises a transfer conveyer 516 which moves panels, in this
illustrative case panel 30, from the shear and trim stage 512 to
the paint line 514. This is accomplished illustratively by rollers
on conveyer 518 moving panel 30 perpendicularly from shear and trim
stage 512 to paint line 514 which is illustratively positioned
parallel to line 500. If, for example, panel 30 or the other panels
20 and 28 do not receive a paint application, they can be removed
from the line at an off-load point 520. If panel 30, for example,
will be receiving a paint application, it is loaded onto paint line
514 via a staging section 522 as shown in FIG. 29. The first stage
of the paint process of paint line 514 is to flame treat the top
surface of panel 30 at 524. The flame treatment process is a means
to relax the surface tension and ionize-charge the board for
chemical bonding. This will decrease the surface tension of the
plastic or the bonding material. Such decrease in surface tension
allows the plastic to have a similar surface tension to that of the
paint that will create better adhesion of the paint to the board.
In the illustrative embodiment, the flame treatment uses a blue
flame approximately 1/4 inch in height, and the board is passed
below the flame of about 3/8 of an inch at a rate of about 26 feet
per minute. It is appreciated, however, that other means of heating
the surface of panel 30 is contemplated and, in regards to the
flame size, temperature, and the distance of the board from the
flame, is illustrative and not considered to be the sole embodiment
of this disclosure.
[0114] It is contemplated that much of the paint line will be
enclosed and, because of such, after the flame treatment stage 524,
an air input section is added to create positive pressure within
the line. In the illustrative embodiment, a fan is added to this
section to input air which will blow dust and debris away from the
panel to keep it clean. The next stage of paint line 514 is the
adhesion promoter spray booth 528. Booth 528 applies a plastic
primer to the surface of panel 30 that integrates with the plastic
in the board to assist in better adhesion of subsequent paint
layers. In this illustrative embodiment, a down-draft spray of the
primer is applied to the surface of panel 30. Exiting booth 528,
another air input section 530 is illustratively located to further
create positive pressure to continue preventing dust or other
contaminates from resting on the surface of the panel.
[0115] After panel 30 exits the adhesion promoter booth 528, it
enters the UV primer seal spray booth 532. Booth 532 applies a UV
filler paint to further level the surface of the panel 30, as well
as serve as an additional primer for the final UV care paint. It is
appreciated, however, that depending on the application of the
panel, the UV filler can be replaced with a UV paint or other paint
as a topcoat. In this illustrative embodiment, however, the booth
532 uses a down-draft spray to apply the primer seal onto panel
30.
[0116] Exiting booth 528, panel 30 then enters an ambient flash
stage 534 wherein the panel 30 rests to allow solvents from the
paint to evaporate. Though not shown, the solvents are drawn from
the ambient flash stage 534 where the solvents are burned so as to
not enter the atmosphere. In addition, stage 534 may include an
input fan 536, similar to air inputs 526 and 530, to maintain
positive pressure in this section.
[0117] After allowing the solvents to dissipate from the surface of
the panel 30, it is transported under a UV cure lamp 538 to further
cure the paint. The UV cure 538 is illustratively a high-intensity,
ultra-violet light to which the paint is sensitive, and which will
further cure the paint.
[0118] After passing through UV cure 538, the panel 30 is passed
through an infrared oven 540. The panel 30 is moved through oven
540 at an illustrative rate of 2.5 meters per minute and the IR
oven is set at about 165 degrees F. This step further assists to
drive out any remaining solvents that might not have been driven
out prior to the UV cure. In addition, those solvents are also then
sent off and burned before reaching the atmosphere.
[0119] Once exiting the IR oven 540, panel 30 is transferred to a
side transfer section 542 which allows either removal of panel 30
if the paint applied at booth 532 was the final application of
paint, or through conveyors 544 as shown in FIG. 29, if panel 30 is
to be transferred to a secondary paint line 546.
[0120] If panel 30 is transferred to secondary paint line 546, it
is passed through another spray booth 548. Booth 548 uses a
down-draft spray to apply a UV topcoat over top the UV filler and
adhesion promoter coats previously discussed. The UV topcoat will
be the finished coat that provides the Class A auto finish as
previously discussed, for example. Once the topcoat has been
applied onto the surface of panel 30, the following process is
similar to that as described with respect to paint line 514 which
is that the panel 30 is again subjected to an ambient flash at
section 550, similar to ambient flash stage 534 previously
discussed, wherein the solvents are allowed to evaporate, and are
driven off and burned. Furthermore, the panel is transferred
through a UV cure 552 section, similar to that of 538 and as
previously discussed, the UV cure 552 serves also as UV
high-intensity light to further cure the topcoat applied at 548.
After passing through the UV section 552, panel 30 then enters
infrared oven 554, which is similar to IR oven 540 previously
discussed, wherein the panel is subjected to a temperature of about
165 degrees F. for about 2.5 minutes.
[0121] When panel 30 exits the IR oven, it enters an inspection
booth 556 where the surface is inspected for defects in the paint
or in the board. The inspection can be either manually accomplished
by visual inspection of the surface and identifying such defects,
or can be accomplished through an automated inspection process
comprising sensors to locate defects, etc. In addition, the
inspection booth 556 also serves as a cool-down process for the
process. The inspection booth 556 maintains a temperature of about
78 degrees F. with about 50 weight percent relative humidity to
cool down at least the surface of the board from the approximate
165 degrees F. from the IR oven to about 80 degrees F. If a board
does not pass inspection, it will be removed for repair or
recycling. If the board does pass inspection, it will pass through
a pinch roller 558 that will apply a slip sheet which is
illustratively a thin 4 millimeter polypropylene sheet that
protects the painted surface of panel 30 and allow the same to be
stacked at the off-load section 560.
[0122] Composite materials, like those used to manufacture
automobile bodies and interiors, have the potential to be recycled
into new materials. An impediment to such recycling, however, is
incompatible particle sizes of otherwise potentially recyclable
constituents. For example, a variety of combinations of
polypropylene, vinyl, polyester, ABS, and fibrous materials may be
used to produce a panel or core product for a panel.
[0123] In the recycle system 600, shown in FIGS. 31 through 33,
several materials are collected and segregated based on a desired
composition at 602. Each material is granulated to reduce its
particle size. The degree to which each material is granulated can
be varied depending on the chemistry desired in the resulting
panel. After each material is granulated, the loss and weight is
determined at 604. This is done so that the cross-section and
weight can be controlled before the resultant material is laminated
into a panel. The materials are blended into a composition at 606
and transferred to collector 608. The composition is then
transferred from collector 608 through a metal detector 612 which
is configured to remove metal particles. The remaining composition
is then deposited into a scatter box 614. Scatter box 614 allows
particles of a particular maximum size to deposit onto granulate
belt 616. The loss and weight of the resulting composition is then
determined again to maintain the density of the final panel. The
composition is then transferred to the recycle composition storage
626 in anticipation for deposit with the other laminate
constituents.
[0124] The recycled composition manufacturing panel line 618, shown
in FIGS. 32 and 33, is similar to line 300 shown in FIG. 20. Line
618 comprises the following primary stages: uncoiling 620,
pre-heater 622, heat and pressure 624, recycled material storage
626, cooling 628, shear and trim 630. In the illustrated embodiment
of FIG. 32, rolls 632, 634 of material, such as a fibrous or woven
glass material, for example, are located at stage 620. Rolls 632,
634 are uncoiled to form composite layers. These layers are then
pre-warmed using pre-heater stage 622, similar to stage 304 used in
manufacturing line 300. The recycled composition material from
stage 626 exists in the form of chips having an irregular shape
with a maximum dimension in any one direction of, illustratively,
0.125 inches, and is then deposited between the composite layers.
The new composite layers are then subjected to the same heat,
pressure, and cooling at stages 624 and 628, respectively, as to
the heat and press stage 306 and the cooling stage 308 of
manufacturing line 300.
[0125] The heat and pressure stage 624 receives the preheated
composite layers, and through a progression of increasingly
narrowly-spaced rollers, compresses the composite layers to a
desired thickness similar to that previously discussed. Again, this
gradual progression of pressure reduces stress on the rollers and
the belts driving the rollers, as discussed with stage 306 of line
300. In addition, the belts that drive the rollers can, too, be
made of Teflon glass material, rather than a metal, also previously
discussed. Also similar to stage 308, stage 628 includes a pair of
surfaces or platens between every two pairs of rollers to allow the
composite layer to move there between. Illustratively, the platens
receive hot oil. It is appreciated that other methods of heating
the platens are contemplated, similar to stage 306. After the
composite layers are heated, fused, and reduced to a desired
thickness, the resulting panel is cooled. Cooling stage 628 is
comparable to stage 308. The final stage is shear and trim 630,
which is also similar to the shear and trim stage 310 of line
300.
[0126] As shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, line 618 further includes a
dual side lamination stage 636. Stage 636 is similar to stage 410,
shown in FIG. 25, except for the additional uncoiling stage 638
located beneath a primary uncoiling stage 637. It is contemplated
that applying a surface on both sides of a composite panel is the
same as applying a single surface, as shown in FIG. 20, with the
exception that warm air will be directed to both sides of the
composite panel. The process as shown in FIG. 20 does apply to the
lower surface as well.
[0127] A sectional view of fibrous substitute material layer 6 is
shown in FIGS. 36a through c. The distinction between the views of
FIGS. 36a through c is the amount of heat and pressure applied to
fibrous material layer 6. As previously discussed above, fibrous
material layer 6 illustratively comprises a mat of illustratively
about 25 weight percent hemp and about 25 weight percent kenaf with
the balance being illustratively polypropylene. The fibers are
randomly oriented to provide a nonspecific orientation of strength.
Variations of this fibrous material are contemplated, including an
about 24.75 weight percent hemp and about 24.75 weight percent
kenaf combination with about 50 weight percent polypropylene and
about 0.05 weight percent maleic anhydride. Other such fibrous
materials can be used as well, such as flax and jute, for example.
It is also contemplated that other blend ratios of the fibrous
material can be used. It is further contemplated that other binders
in place of polypropylene may also be used for the purpose
discussed further herein. Still further, it is contemplated that
other fibrous materials which have high process temperatures in
excess of about 400 degrees F., for example, may be used as
well.
[0128] The fibrous material layer 6 shown in FIG. 36a is considered
a virgin version of the layer, similar to that shown in FIG. 1, or
on rolls 6' and 6" shown in FIG. 22. This version of layer 6 is
considered virgin, because it has not been subjected to a heat
treatment or was compressed. The fibers and the binder that compose
the layer exist as essentially separate constituents simply mixed
together. In this state, the virgin version is highly permeable and
pliable. The relative thickness 700 of the layer 6 is relatively
greater than the thicknesses 702 or 704 of layers 6 shown in either
FIGS. 7b and 7c, respectively. Furthermore, because the binder,
polypropylene, for example, is not bound to the fiber, heating
layer 6 may cause it to consolidate or shrink, particularly in its
length and width.
[0129] In contrast, layer 6 shown in FIG. 36c, though comprising
the same constituents as layer 6 in FIG. 36a, has been subjected
considerably to heat and pressure. This embodiment of layer 6 is
considered a high density version. In this case, the binder has
been fully wetted-out. Fully wetted-out, for the purposes of this
discussion means that the binder has, for practical purposes, all
liquefied and bonded to the fibrous material of layer 6. Such
produces an essentially non-permeable, dense and rigid body. The
binder, typically a thermal melt polymer, like polypropylene, is
melted into a liquid state, causing the polymers to adhere to
and/or wet-out the fibrous materials. This can produce a
consolidation of the composite when cooled which shrinks the layer.
This results, however, in a rigid and dimensionally stable flat
sheet. If such a layer is then reheated, because the binder is
already bonded with the fibrous material, the layer will not
shrink, unlike the layer 6 described in FIG. 36a. Such high density
layers are used to produce the layers 72, 74 of truss composite 70,
previously discussed with respect to FIG. 10, for example.
[0130] The version of layer 6 shown in FIG. 36b, in contrast to
both the virgin and high density versions from FIGS. 36a and c,
respectively, is considered a low density version. This low density
version has been subjected to heat and pressure, so that a portion
of the binder in the layer has been wetted-out, unlike the virgin
version of FIG. 36a which has not been subjected to such a process.
Furthermore, unlike the high density layer shown in FIG. 36c, the
binder of the low density layer has not been fully wetted-out. In
other words, not all of the binder in the low density layer has
liquefied and bonded to the natural fibers, only a portion of the
binder has. The remaining binder is still maintained separate from
the fibrous material. This makes the low density version rigid,
similar to the high density version, yet, also semi-permeable, more
akin to the virgin version. In one illustrative embodiment, the
binder has melted and soaked into about 50 percent of the fibers
that are in the layer. In this case, it is not believed that the
fibers per se have grown, nor changed in a specific value. Rather,
the fibers have just absorbed the binder.
[0131] The low density version can provide accelerated processing
for three-dimensional molding, particularly in molding, like that
shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, where various compression zones are used
to form the material. Furthermore, utilizing such a composite
provides lower production costs. In addition, because the layer is
rigid, yet has some permeability, it can be used as a tack board
alone or in conjunction with the dry erase board 150 of FIG. 15,
for example. The properties also make it conducive to acoustical
insulation or ceiling tiles.
[0132] Conventional heat sources such as infra red ovens are not
used to heat a high density layer 6 material, because it may cause
changes to its physical dimensions or cause overheating of the
surface area of the high density layer 6 in order to bring the core
up to proper processing temperatures. In contrast, contact heating
ovens, which use upper and lower heated platens to hold a virgin
layer 6 under pressure during heating to prevent significant
shrinkage, are not readily available in the general molding
industry that may use such materials. Furthermore, the target cycle
times required to heat these layers to molding temperatures require
extra energy and equipment.
[0133] Using the low density version of layer 6 can, on balance, be
a more cost effective way to mold such fibrous material layers. For
example, an 1800 gram per meter square sample of fibrous material,
as described with respect to FIGS. 26a through c, may require about
83 seconds of heat time in a contact oven to get the virgin version
up to molding temperature. The high density version may require 48
seconds of heat time in an IR oven. The low density board, however,
may require only about 28 seconds of heat time in an air circulated
hot air oven. This is to reach a core temperature of about 340 to
350 degrees F.
[0134] When heating the low density version in a simple air
circulated hot air oven, the energy required to heat low density
board is 50 percent less than the required energy to heat the layer
through a contact oven and 70 percent less than the required energy
to heat a consolidated hard board utilizing infra red oven. The
high density layer is typically only heated by an infrared oven.
This is because the high density version does not have the
permeability for hot air, and contact ovens may overheat and damage
the layer.
[0135] Some benefits of the high density version over the virgin
version are also found in the low density version. First of all,
similar to how the high density version requires less packaging
space than the virgin because of its reduced thickness, the low
density version too requires less packaging space since its
thickness is also less than that of the virgin version. Such
translates into reduced shipping costs. Secondly, because the low
density version is rigid, like the high density version, the low
density version can be handled much easier with mechanical devices,
such as grippers and clamps. This can be more difficult with the
virgin version which is more pliable. Also, the low density
material does not always have to be pre-heated. Some applications
of the virgin version may require the layer to be preheated so as
to dimensionally stabilize the material. This is not necessary with
the low density version. In contrast, for those production lines
that use a needle system to handle materials, particularly, for
materials like the virgin version of layer 6, the high density
version would not receive such needles, because of the solidified
binder. The low density version, however, still being
semi-permeable, may receive such needles, allowing it to be
transported easily, similar to that of the virgin version.
[0136] Manufacture of the low density version like that shown in
FIG. 36c comprises subjecting the virgin version to both heat and
pressure. The heat and pressure is illustratively provided by an
oven which comprises compressed rolls that pinch the material to
reduce its ability to shrink while it is being heated. The rolls
have belts with holes disposed therethrough, through which the hot
air passes. The layer is being held as structurally rigid as
possible so it does not suck-in and become narrow and thick in the
middle. The heat and pressure causes the binder to liquefy, and
under the rollers, causes the melted binder to be absorbed into and
surround the natural fiber. The layer may shrink to some minor
extent, but that can be compensated for during this manufacturing
process. When the layer is removed from the oven, cold air is blown
on it to solidify the layer.
[0137] Typically, thermal melt polymers are heat sensitive, and at
temperatures above 240 degrees F. will attempt to shrink (deform).
Therefore, the opposing air permeable belts having opposing
pressures limits the amount of heat sink shrinkage that will occur
during this process. Once the initial heating has occurred
(polymers changed from a solid to liquid state), and consolidation
of thermal melt and non-thermal melt fibers are achieved, the
consolidated layer 6 becomes thermal dimensionally stable. After
heating, and while the consolidated mat is under compression
between the opposing air permeable belts, the layer is chilled by
ambient air being applied equally on opposite sides of the
consolidated mat to, again, bring the thermal melt polymers back to
a solid state.
[0138] Although the present disclosure has been described with
reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, from the
foregoing description, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain
the essential characteristics of the present disclosure and various
changes and modifications may be made to adapt the various uses and
characteristics without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present invention as set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *