
Recommendations for 12.5mm Solid Grade Laminate
Machining
• The machining of Compact laminate should be done using tungsten carbide tipped blade/ cutters or metal
cutting tools.
Cutting
• In order to obtain a clean cut, we suggest the use of carbide tipped saw blades with trapezoidal and as
many teeth as possible or a jigsaw with a metal cutting blade. However, alternating teeth can be equally
suitable, but the cut will not be as clean.
• Best r
Precision Cutting
y, sawing the
panel slightly oversize and then re-cutting the edge to the precise measurement using a tungsten carbide
tipped router cutter of the required pr
Grooving
• Compact can be grooved using a saw blade or router cutter with tungsten carbide tips.
• The depth of the groove must not exceed 1/3 of the Compact thickness.
Drilling
• Carbide bits with 3 prongs give best results (helicoidal bits) and can be used in preference to high-speed
steel drills.
• Holes can be drilled through part of the thickness or through the whole. In the case of stopped holes, a
minimum thickness of 1.5mm to 2mm of the laminate must remain (i.e. maximum depth of hole = 11mm). A
minimum of 1mm of space must remain between the tenon, screw tip or insert and the bottom of the hole
(otherwise ther
• Pilot hole diameters for self tapping screws are: 3.5mm - No.6 screw; 3.5mm - No.8 screw; 4.5mm - No.10
screw; 5mm - No.12 screw.
Cut-Outs
• Square Cut-outs:- Drill the four corners with at least a 10mm diameter hole and, starting from one of the
holes, use a jigsaw with a metal cutting blade, cutting in straight lines, join the holes and square into the
cor re removed to avoid injury.
• Oval or Circular Cut-outs:- For example, cutting a basin hole into a vanity top. Drill a single 10mm diameter
hole and, starting from the hole, cut according to template using a jigsaw with a metal cutting blade. Finish
re removed to avoid injury.
Resizing and re-edging pr
• We would recommend that you cut the panel as previously described and trim to size using a ‘TREND’ Sunk
th a 300 grit sand paper.
• Polish as described below.
Finishing edges
• In order to eliminate machine-cutting imperfections created at the edges of the Compact, sand with a 300
• To obtain darker edges, rub the edge with a cloth soaked in linseed oil or wax. Leave to dry for 30 minutes
and wipe off. Sharp edges must be smoothed to avoid injury.
Minima Page 3