Dimensional Changes of Veneer Layered Materials after Cold Pressing.

Dimensional changes in both non-densified and densified, thin, wooden components and layered materials after external pressing forces were released were evaluated in this work. Densification was carried out using a cold process on a semi-automatic hydraulic pressing machine. The specimens' dimensional stabilities, focusing mainly on their residual plastic deformations, were monitored. The impacts of several factors, such as wood species, material thickness, densification degree, and their combinations, were analyzed. Results showed that, with increased degree of densification, the relative plastic deformations (pressing degree) usually decreased. With regard to the compositions explored, the best combination was a top poplar layer densified by 10% plus a bottom beech layer densified by 20%. The impacts of each of the factors on the pressing degree values proved to be significant; the least significant was the bottom beech layer thickness and degree of densification. The greatest practical benefits can be obtained using the recommended combinations of composite layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]