Darryl Keil Last Activity 2024-10-10 3:42 PM
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woodsmoke

Posts: 10

Joined: 2018-04-18
Location: SE Pa

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Subject : Platen
Posted : 2018-04-18 8:55 PM
Post #37724

I believe platen is the right term for the base in the vacuum bag.
At any rate I have a 48" x 48" system on order. I purchased a 4' x 8' 3/4" MDF melamine sheet today. After cutting it in half I was amazed how heavy and clumsy a 4' x 4' piece can be. Considering cutting it down to 30" x 30" for starters.
Do any of you work with a full 48" square sheet?
Also, what material used is used for a top sheet?
Being new to veneering, I plan on a test run before attacking the project which is a Krenov style cabinet on stand.
Thanks for any help or comments.




 
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Darryl Keil

Posts: 1453

Joined: 2003-05-22
Location: Maine

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Subject : RE: Platen
Posted : 2018-04-19 8:17 AM
Post #37725 - In reply to #37724

The platen can be any size you like. As long as its smaller than what the bag can fit you can put, for example, a 12”x 12” platen in a 4’x 4’ capacity bag. You could also have two 2’x 4’ platens and put them together with dry biscuits. Have one of them in the bag for smaller work and add the second platen for larger work. As long as the grooves line up between the two platens you’re good.

1/8” or 1/4” melamine coated MDF/Masonite make good cauls.


 
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Jeff Patrick


Joined: 2004-04-15
Location: Bainbridge Island, WA

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Subject : RE: Platen
Posted : 2018-04-19 10:44 AM
Post #37726 - In reply to #37724

48 x 48 inches would be easy. Try handling a full sheet. Mine seems to get heavier every year. Couldn't be my age!I also have numerous small platens that I enjoy using. Jeff


 
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woodsmoke

Posts: 10

Joined: 2018-04-18
Location: SE Pa

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Subject : RE: Platen
Posted : 2018-04-19 4:24 PM
Post #37727 - In reply to #37726

This afternoon I cut my 3/4" stock to 36' x 36". Seems a manageable size. Did a round over (1/8" router) on edges and cut 1/8" x 1/4" grooves at 4" intervals crisscross.
I have a 1/4" Baltic birch test panel with Beech veneer ready to go when the system arrives.
My shop temp runs down around 55*. This is probably too low for the Uni 1 glue. May have to use the finishing room that has heat.


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