Melamine coating is an aesthetic and functional surface coating technology widely used in the furniture industry. With its durability, easy cleanability, and wide pattern options, it is one of the indispensable materials of modern furniture making.
What is Melamine Coating?
Melamine coating is the process of bonding decorative papers impregnated with melamine resin to wood-based boards (MDF, particle board) under high pressure and temperature. This process results in a durable, aesthetic, and economical surface.
Melamine Coating Production Process
- Decor Paper Preparation: Decor paper in desired pattern and color is selected
- Resin Impregnation: Paper is impregnated with melamine resin
- Drying: Impregnated paper is dried under controlled conditions
- Pressing: Bonded to board at 180-200°C temperature and high pressure
- Cooling: Process completed with controlled cooling
- Quality Control: Surface quality and adhesion strength tested
Types of Melamine Coating
1. Matt Melamine
Non-glossy, natural-looking surface. Doesn't show fingerprints, preferred in modern designs.
2. High Gloss Melamine
High gloss, luxurious looking surface. Easy to clean but more sensitive to scratches.
3. Soft Touch Melamine
Special surface providing velvety touch feeling. Used in premium furniture, doesn't hold fingerprints.
4. Synchronized Melamine
Melamine type with embossed wood grains, providing realistic texture feeling.
5. Antibacterial Melamine
Special coating preventing bacterial growth with silver ion technology. Used in hospital and kitchen furniture.
Advantages of Melamine Coating
- Durability: High resistance to scratching, impact and wear
- Water Resistance: Excellent protection against moisture and liquids
- Easy Cleaning: Non-porous structure prevents staining
- Hygienic: Resistant to bacteria and fungal growth
- UV Resistance: Resistant to fading in sunlight
- Economical: Cost-effective compared to other coating types
- Variety: Thousands of different color and pattern options
- Heat Resistance: Resistant to heat up to 70°C
Melamine Coating Application Areas
- Kitchen Furniture: Cabinet doors, under-counter units
- Office Furniture: Work desks, cabinets, partition panels
- Bedroom: Wardrobe doors, nightstands
- Hotel Furniture: All furniture requiring durability
- Store Fixtures: Shelving systems, counters
- Educational Furniture: Desks, cabinets, boards
Things to Consider When Choosing Melamine Coating
- Usage Area: Surface type selection suitable for space characteristics
- Thickness: Thickness options between 0.2-0.8mm
- Color Harmony: Color selection compatible with space decoration
- Texture: Matt, glossy or textured surface preference
- Quality Class: Products compliant with EN 14322 standard
- Warranty: Manufacturer warranty and certificates
Melamine Coating Maintenance
- Regular cleaning with soft, damp cloth
- Avoiding abrasive cleaning materials
- Avoiding contact with sharp and pointed objects
- Not placing extremely hot objects directly
- Cleaning spilled liquids immediately
- Using special melamine cleaners
Melamine vs Other Coatings
Compared to Laminate: Melamine is thinner and more economical, laminate is thicker and more durable
Compared to Lacquer: Melamine is more economical and practical, lacquer has a more luxurious appearance
Compared to PVC: Melamine is ideal for flat surfaces, PVC can be used on profiled surfaces
Conclusion
Melamine coating is an indispensable surface coating technology in modern furniture production. With its economical cost, high durability, and aesthetic variety, it can be safely used in both residential and commercial spaces. With the right selection and maintenance, melamine-coated furniture maintains its original appearance for years.