Comments Off on Thermoforming Solid Surface – It’s OK To Get Bent Out Of Shape
How do you design and shape solid surface projects? The technique of thermoforming is used to mold and shape different solid surface materials. This allows flat sheets of synthetic solid surface material to be transformed into almost any shape. By using heat and pressure the synthetic material is shaped into different three dimensional, rounded designs. The material is heated until it is pliable, placed over a mold and vacuum formed by removing the air between the material and a high temperature silicon membrane. Once the material has cooled it is trimmed to exact specifications using our 5 axis CNC.
Not all surfaces can be molded and turned into three dimensional shapes but most synthetic solid surfaces can. This process cannot be used on other solid surface materials like quartz and granite. Companies that choose synthetic solid surfaces have a broader range of artistic ability when it comes to solid surface projects. Thermoforming is a tricky trade and creating the right balance of heat and bend is crucial to this process. The different chemical makeup of synthetic solid surfaces requires different temperatures. There are also limitations of the bend radius with different materials. No one enjoys telling a customer that the project has to be redesigned because the material specified cannot be formed into the desired shape.
ASST has thermoformed most synthetic solid surfaces and we know the requirements for each. With the high level of technology in our fabrication facility, there are no limitations to the design of synthetic solid surfaces. ASST can bend synthetic surfaces any which way to bring your 2D project plans into to the 3D world.
Let ASST bend over backwards for you on your next project. Whatever you need, ASST can build it to your exact specifications, in a safe manner, and to the finest quality standards you expect. Contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Solid Surface Collaboration – Nursing The Seeds of Innovation
We’ve all made the statement “There has to be a better way”. The typical progression of questions asked by most solid surface fabricators are “How do we bring our solid surfaces to Market? How can we break into the larger solid surface projects? What are the limitations of what we can do with solid surfaces? How can we become more efficient in our fabrication processes?”
The cost of trial and error in solid surface fabrication can be expensive. Will a new $500,000.00 5axis CNC make your shop more efficient? Will minimizing ‘flip’ in your fabrication process improve your thermoforming capabilities? Probably not but a 5Axis can help you with your thermoforming and minimizing “flip” will help production line efficiency.
Collaboration ~ The work and activity of a number of persons who individually contribute toward the efficiency of the whole.
At ASST we are hosting the ISFA Solid Surface Industry Roundtable on August 13th-15th. The discussions will include How to Get the Work (two parts), Helping the Design Process Through Education, Shop Layout and Processes, AWI Specifications/QC Standards. We will also be doing a tour of the ASST fabrication facility, dinners and a unique Ghost Tour in Gettysburg.
Comments Off on Solid Surface Adhesion – Solid Surface is Sticking Around
A considerable part of fabricating with solid surface is adhering separate pieces together. The solid surface fabrication joint requires a strong bond while maintaining aesthetics. This is accomplished by using the right solid surface adhesive that is matched to the surface color. The solid surface adhesive can be stronger than the material itself and with color matching, it is possible for the joint to subsist unnoticed.
Each manufacturer of solid surface makes adhesive that is color matching and ASST uses the correct color matching adhesive for each project. ASST has 20 years of solid surface fabrication experience. We know what adhesives to use, the correct amount to use and the correct way to finish the adhesive.
If you want your next project to stick in the minds of your customers let ASST help you out. Whatever you need, ASST can build it to the exact specifications, in a safe manner and to the finest quality standards you expect. Even our EMR safety
rating is outstanding at .793! We look forward to Going Beyond to address your exciting project challenges. For a quote, contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Healthcare Infection Prevention – Solid Surface Solutions for Infection Control
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) approximately one in 25 acute care patients acquires an infection during their stay. These findings are alarming and have triggered an urgency to address the issues surrounding patient acquired infections. Facilities managers and infection control practitioners (ICPs) are aware of how bacteria and mold grow in/on horizontal and vertical surfaces. It wasn’t until recently that sinks, countertops and wall cladding were studied as potential sites for the spread of disease.
Plastic laminate finishes on healthcare casework and wall cladding have seams and exposed edges that can harbor bacteria. Laminate substrate is usually particle board. While it is dense and may appear to be non-absorbent, it is porous and will absorb moisture over time. Wet wood will harbor bacteria, especially Aspergillus fungi.
A solution to these problems can be found by utilizing solid surface which inherently inhibits bacterial growth. By creating a seamless, nonporous surface where pathogens can’t grow, solid surface can help with control issues and maintenance. Solid surfaces such as Corian, Avonite, Wilsonart, Durasein, LG or Krion can survive the impacts, nicks and cuts that ruin most wall surfaces. It is renewable, repairable and reusable. If the solid surface is damaged it can be repaired onsite, saving labor costs and resources. While warranties may vary from manufacturers, some will guarantee the material for as long a ten years.
Solid surfaces have proven superior performance in healthcare applications such as wall cladding, casework, countertops and more. Let ASST ASsiST you protecting the health of others with our custom solid surface fabrication. For a quote, contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Solid Surface Public Seating – Increased Performance with Thermoformed Solutions
Public seating in high traffic applications can take quite a beating. Design professionals are under increasing pressure from clients to provide seating solutions that are both durable and comfortable. Many are unaware of the flexibility solid surface provides to create seating that conforms ergonomically. The inherent performance characteristics of thermoformed solid surface materials provide an amazing opportunity to increase the longevity of public seating.
Design professionals today are bombarded with a plethora of furniture seating solutions. Unfortunately, many of these “seating systems” are poorly manufactured with planned obsolescence. Constructed of cheaper plastics, many of these systems fail soon after warranty expiration. This is hardly a strategy for clients looking to be environmentally responsible. Design professionals need to provide smart ergonomic seating solutions addressing both performance and value. These challenges seem insurmountable when industry standard public seating systems don’t fulfill your specified requirements.
ASST has the capability to help. With a state-of-the-art thermoforming studio we can create ergonomic seating to your exact design specifications. We can share past solid surface project case studies to inspire your creativity. Working in concert with your team, we provide design assistance and credible information to present to your clients. Tailored services to meet busy design professional’s needs are what we do!
Let us assist you with your next solid surface seating project! Whatever you need, ASST can build it to the exact specifications, in a safe manner and to the finest quality standards you expect. We look forward to Going Beyond for your exciting project! Contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Making Spaces That Inspire – Stimulating Solid Surface Solutions
Can inspiration be engineered? Can the urge to do something creative be designed? What if we told you that solid surfaces could be formed into ANY shape and that flat tops are yesterday’s solid surface? Most people don’t realize that you can get the everlasting qualities of solid surfaces in whichever design you want.
Solid surfaces are known for minimizing the spread of bacteria and durability. Solid surfaces are not known for the ability to be formed into different shapes. Architects want to illicit emotions with their designs. Owners want to wow customers with a product that is long lasting and cost effective. General Contractors want a design that is uncomplicated and safe to build. How do we provide the desired outcome to all parties involved?
Because of ASST’s depth of experience we can provide a wealth of knowledge for your solid surface project. We can share creative ideas and best practices incorporating solid surfaces into your next project. Whether you are looking for curved solid surfaces, translucent backlit vertical panels or unique public seating, ASST can help. We can provide you with the project inspiration and technical details to make your solid surface strategy a success!
ASST is uniquely positioned to fulfill all aspects of your project. Whatever you need, ASST can build it to the exact specifications, in a safe manner and to the finest quality standards you expect. We look forward to Going Beyond for your exciting project! Contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Solid Surface Healthcare Casework – Thinking Outside the Square Box
The healthcare industry has long understood the necessity of reducing the spread of bacteria by minimizing the use of porous materials. For years the healthcare industry has utilized Plastic Laminate (PLAM) casework because of the cost effective traits. Solid surfaces such as Corian ®, Durasein ®, Krion ®, LG HI-MACS ®, Wilsonart®, and Avonite ® may cost more upfront; however, this material is virtually future proof.
Casework has traditionally been made of Plastic Laminate clad MDF with PVC glued to the edges. Some of the shortcomings of PLAM casework is the lifespan before adhesives start to fail, the durability of laminate materials and the lack of positive aesthetics. Once the casework is damaged or begins to come apart, it is no longer suitable for healthcare without the risk of harboring bacteria. No health system wants to find out that the loose PVC edging on a piece of casework is spreading bacteria. PLAM is traditionally made using square or rectangular shapes which limits the creativity of design. Today health systems are looking to assist people with ailments as well as being known as a leader in design.
Solid surface material is ideal for the healthcare industry. Solid surfaces are non-porous making it resistant to bacteria growth. Solid surfaces are easy to clean and because there are no layers, it will not separate. Solid surface is easy to repair, long lasting and can be thermoformed into any shape. At ASST, we have 21 years of experience fabricating casework for the healthcare industry. If you want to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria and wow your customers with the design, solid surface is the obvious choice.
If you want your next project to stand the test of time and “wow” your customer, let ASST help you out. Whatever you need, ASST can build it to your exact specifications, in a safe manner, and
to the finest quality standards you expect. Contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Solid Surface Backlighting – Solid Surface Has Seen the Light
How do you get the ‘WOW’ factor across in your next solid surface project? Backlighting. Solid surface designs can be extraordinary and lighting them up can make them stand out from the rest. Backlighting acts like the cherry on top to the solid surface sundae and is a perfect finishing touch. The right type of lighting will elicit attention, illuminate details, and add dimension to the project.
Composition and depth of the solid surface can get lost in dark locations. Some of the leading solid surfaces on the market today have an element of translucency. The last thing anyone would want would be for that trait of translucency to go unnoticed. Don’t let your solid surface project evanish into the background. Make it the focal point by lighting it up.
At ASST we fabricate the most breathtaking and eye catching designs of Corian®, 3Form®, Krion®, LG HiMacs®, Avonite®, Wilsonart®, as well as other solid surface materials. Our creations come in different textures, colors, transparencies, and backlighting will make them stand out even more. Lighting fixtures can range from LED panels to light tape. Either way, lighting behind an ASST solid surface will make your project radiate in its space. ASST can design and incorporate backlighting into the solid surface project plan to make sure that it is unique and enhances the solid surface.
Let ASST guide you through the dark on your next solid surface backlighting project.
Whatever you need, ASST can build it to your exact specifications, in a safe manner, and
to the finest quality standards you expect. Contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Solid Surface Fabrication – Solid Surface Has Come Full Circle
When a customer wants a surface product that will last and remain relevant for years to come, what material do you call on? For thousands of years, hard woods have been the go-to for everlasting furniture, fixtures and tops. The future is bright and modern solid surfaces are now the go-to for everlasting furniture, fixtures, tops and more.
When your product stands out from the others it normally does not come cheap. This is why it is important that your product stand the test of time. Most commercial environments are hard on surface products because of the amount of traffic. The path to success is using material that is durable, manageable to fabricate and is uncomplicated to repair.
At ASST we have 20 plus years of experience fabricating commercial solid surface projects. We know details such as, a patterned material is more likely to show a seam than a solid color. We know gloss finish and dark colors can be difficult to maintain. We know the temperature requirements to thermoform different solid surface materials. Most importantly, we know that our customers expect us to go Beyond the Surface Level ™.
To bring your next solid surface project full circle, let ASST help you with your specifications. Whatever you need, ASST can build it to your exact specifications, in a safe manner, and to the quality standards you expect. Contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
Comments Off on Thermoforming Solid Surface – It’s OK To Get Bent Out Of Shape
How do you design and shape solid surface projects? The technique of thermoforming is used to mold and shape different solid surface materials. This allows flat sheets of synthetic solid surface material to be transformed into almost any shape. By using heat and pressure the synthetic material is shaped into different three dimensional, rounded designs. The material is heated until it is pliable, placed over a mold and vacuum formed by removing the air between the material and a high temperature silicon membrane. Once the material has cooled it is trimmed to exact specifications using our 5 axis CNC.
Not all surfaces can be molded and turned into three dimensional shapes but most synthetic solid surfaces can. This process cannot be used on other solid surface materials like quartz and granite. Companies that choose synthetic solid surfaces have a broader range of artistic ability when it comes to solid surface projects. Thermoforming is a tricky trade and creating the right balance of heat and bend is crucial to this process. The different chemical makeup of synthetic solid surfaces requires different temperatures. There are also limitations of the bend radius with different materials. No one enjoys telling a customer that the project has to be redesigned because the material specified cannot be formed into the desired shape.
ASST has thermoformed most synthetic solid surfaces and we know the requirements for each. With the high level of technology in our fabrication facility, there are no limitations to the design of synthetic solid surfaces. ASST can bend synthetic surfaces any which way to bring your 2D project plans into to the 3D world.
Let ASST bend over backwards for you on your next project. Whatever you need, ASST can build it to your exact specifications, in a safe manner, and to the finest quality standards you expect. Contact us now online or call us at 717-630-1251.
The healthcare industry has long understood the necessity of reducing the spread of bacteria by minimizing the use of porous materials. For years the healthcare industry has utilized Plastic Laminate (PLAM) casework because of the cost effective traits. Solid surfaces such as Corian ®, Durasein ®, Krion ®, LG HI-MACS ®, Wilsonart®, and Avonite ® may cost more upfront; however, this material is virtually future proof.
How do you get the ‘WOW’ factor across in your next solid surface project? Backlighting. Solid surface designs can be extraordinary and lighting them up can make them stand out from the rest. Backlighting acts like the cherry on top to the solid surface sundae and is a perfect finishing touch. The right type of lighting will elicit attention, illuminate details, and add dimension to the project.
When a customer wants a surface product that will last and remain relevant for years to come, what material do you call on? For thousands of years, hard woods have been the go-to for everlasting furniture, fixtures and tops. The future is bright and modern solid surfaces are now the go-to for everlasting furniture, fixtures, tops and more.
How do you design and shape solid surface projects? The technique of thermoforming is used to mold and shape different solid surface materials. This allows flat sheets of synthetic solid surface material to be transformed into almost any shape. By using heat and pressure the synthetic material is shaped into different three dimensional, rounded designs. The material is heated until it is pliable, placed over a mold and vacuum formed by removing the air between the material and a high temperature silicon membrane. Once the material has cooled it is trimmed to exact specifications using our 5 axis CNC.
