The benefits of specifying solid grade laminate for laboratories

Click on a link to jump to that section:

• The benefits of solid grade laminate for school laboratory worktops - Find out why solid grade laminate is ideal for school laboratory worktops.
• How is solid grade laminate produced? - Find out more about how solid grade laminate is produced.
• Why is CNC machining the best method of cutting solid grade laminate? - Read the key benefits of CNC machining.
• What other applications is solid grade laminate ideal for? - Find out who else solid grade laminate is ideal for.
• Facings, finishes and colours for solid grade laminate - Read the different customisation options for solid grade laminate.
• Why use Panel Systems as a supplier of solid grade laminate? - Read the benefits of choosing Panel Systems.
• Frequently asked questions - We answer common queries on solid grade laminate.

Solid grade laminate has several properties that make it the most suitable material for school laboratory worktops, including:

Chemical resistance – laboratory worktops are extremely vulnerable to chemical stains, especially in schools, so it’s important that the material is resistant to chemicals. Solid grade laminate surfaces have non-porous surfaces and can be easily cleaned. Chemicals can be wiped away without leaving a mark or ruining the appearance of the worktop.

Durable and longer lasting – solid grade laminate is produced with two decorative sides and a black core, so no edging strips are required to cover the sides of the worktop. This makes the benches much more durable and able to withstand heavy wear and tear as well as maintaining the appearance of the material. The material can resist both moisture and scratches, so the surface will retain its aesthetic appeal throughout its lifetime. Find out more about the benefits of solid grade laminate here.

• Easy to clean – the closed surface composition of solid grade laminate makes it extremely easy to clean. The surface is resistant to non-abrasive cleaning solutions so is easy to clean and disinfect, which is especially important in school settings in which huge numbers of children move between classrooms regularly.
• Antibacterial – many suppliers of solid grade laminate provide surfaces with antibacterial properties, which also prevent the growth of mildew and mould.
• Design flexibility – the ability to CNC machine solid grade laminate means it’s extremely flexible in terms of design. Spaces can be cut out to fit around taps, sinks and other lab equipment, without compromising on the aesthetic or performance of the materials. Find out more about the benefits of CNC machining here.
• Sustainability - the supply of sustainable materials is becoming more important to many schools and businesses, so this is taken into consideration by Panel Systems when sourcing materials. Read our full list of accreditations.

Read the benefits of solid grade laminate for toilet cubicles here.

• Meet guidelines for laboratory design – solid grade laminate is usually recommended by industry bodies who regulate the design of laboratories. Guidelines require worktops to be impervious and resistant to the most common laboratory solvents, reagents and disinfectants. Solid grade laminate and stainless steel are the most commonly used materials for laboratory worktops due to their resistance to chemicals. Use of materials, such as Trespa TopLab, and Fundermax Max Resistance is essential in laboratory environments as they are chemical grade and suitable for education or medical establishments. The properties of these materials are perfect for harsh environments, for example, where volatile chemicals are being used.

Read more about the benefits of solid grade laminate.

Solid grade laminate is manufactured using layers of high-quality Kraft paper which are saturated with thermosetting phenolic resins. The layers of paper are then heated and put under high-pressure compression. Once completed, the layers of paper provide a high strength, durable and waterproof material with two decorative sides and a black core.

This method of manufacturing provides panels with extreme strength and impact resistance.

Read more about how solid grade laminate is produced here.

Panel System’s CNC machines utilise the highest quality tooling for greater dimensional accuracy and smoother cuts. The CNC tolerance allows for accuracy up to +/- 0.1mm which means, when it comes to fitting the laboratory out, all fabricated tops can be installed accurately. Read our full guide to CNC machining here.

Our manufacturing facilities utilise both 3 and 5 axis CNC equipment and this means we are able to create bespoke panels with superior accuracy, precision and speed. At Panel Systems, we are happy to quote for small on-off enquiries or large volume panel projects.

Solid grade laminate from Panel Systems is available in a wide range of colours and finishes, allowing for aesthetic customisation to suit different design preferences. In some cases, it can mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood or stone, offering aesthetic options while providing the benefits of a more durable material.

Each range of solid grade laminate is designed in line with compliance to rigorous codes and standards that are required by current laboratory and functional environments. They can offer:

• 24 hours chemical resistance
• Antibacterial
• Scratch and wear resistance
• Easy to clean
• Quick installation
• Excellent machinability
• Suitability for contact with food
• Impact resistance.

Contact us today to find out more.

• CAD and design facilities – when CNC machining solid grade laminate, it’s important the designs are accurate, and this starts with the specification and CAD designs. With an in-house CAD design team, Panel Systems can work with you to ensure exact specifications are inputted into the CAD design, helping projects to run smoothly and preventing wasted material for lab worktops that do not fit.
• Reliability of service – with direct access to material and CNC fabrication services under one roof, Panel Systems is able to guarantee a reliable service with delivery on time to ensure projects are completed within their specified timeline. With no need to outsource any part of the process, Panel Systems is in full control of the project timeline.
• 3 and 5 axis CNC machining – having both 3 and 5 axis facilities available, Panel Systems has greater ability to achieve even the most complex machining details which 3 axis facilities may not be able to handle.

• Access to the latest technology – Panel Systems has access to the latest technology for both CAD designs and CNC machining which means materials are cut accurately to fit the specifications of each particular project.
• Quality of machining – access to the latest tooling and machinery means that Panel System’s CNC machining service is of the highest possible quality. Poor, cheap or older tools can lead to rough or jagged cuts which can be seen on the end result. Newer tooling provides a smooth, accurate finish.
• ISO 9001 approved – Panel Systems is ISO 9001 approved which is a certification for the management of the business and its operations. High-quality business management means we’re able to handle large orders and provide customers with the confidence that we will be able to fulfil the order on time and to a high standard. The business is regularly audited in relation to the requirements needed for the qualification which means we regularly assess the management of the service we provide and how it can be continuously improved.
• Access to top suppliers of solid grade laminate – Panel Systems has relationships with all major suppliers of solid grade laminate, so we have the right products for every project. We understand that not every project is the same, so we supply a range of products to meet this demand. Specify your solid grade laminate today.

What sectors is solid grade laminate ideal for?

Solid grade laminate is ideal for sectors needing robust, hygienic surfaces, such as laboratories, healthcare, and educational facilities.

What brands of solid grade laminate do Panel Systems supply?

The brands we supply include Fundermax, Polyrey, Greenlam, Trespa, Arpa, Abet & Formica.

How is solid grade laminate produced?

It is created by layering kraft paper soaked in resin, compressed under high pressure and heat, resulting in a dense, non-porous material.

What applications can solid grade laminate be used for?

It suits countertops, linings, and other surfaces in demanding environments due to its durability and resistance.

Is solid grade laminate eco-friendly?

Solid grade laminate can be considered eco-friendly due to its longevity and durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Many manufacturers now offer laminates made from sustainably sourced materials and use environmentally friendly production processes. Always check for certifications and standards to ensure the product meets your eco-friendly criteria.

Read our full buyer’s guide to solid grade laminate to find out more.

The Panel Systems staff have a wide range of knowledge and experience of a range of materials and industries, so we can deliver your material on time and to the correct specifications every time. Contact us today for assistance.

• How to make designs fit: CNC machining
• How CNC machining works for underfloor heating
• What are solid grade laminate table tops and how are they made?
• Benefits of solid grade laminate for toilet cubicles
• Complete guide to CNC machining