Introduction

What is Valchromat?

Valchromat is a unique wood fibre panel similar to MDF but engineered for a high physical performance. Coloured throughout using carefully selected pigments and bonded by specifically developed resins, it is 30% stronger than MDF and is the product of choice for architects, interior designers, kitchen designers and furniture makers and arts and crafts people.

History

In 1996 in the research department of Valbopan, SA factory, a project is undertaken to develop and improve upon the existing wood-based products already on the market. Two years later in 1998 this research project bears fruit and a new and innovative product we now know as Valchromat is born.

Valchromat was then officially launched in Paris during the 1998 Approfal fair and won 1st prizes in technological innovation and product Introduction, the year after Valchromat hits the market through distribution channels in France Switzerland and Belgium.

Throughout the years Valchromat has undergone several industrial tests and as a result has reached a level where it is considered one of the most robust and versatile wood products on the market.

Check out our range of Valchromat product here https://fulhamtimber.co.uk/sheet-materials/valchromat/

The Benefits of Valchromat

Coloured Throughout

Valchromat is available in a vast array of colours and has an even colour throughout due to the wood fibres being carefully infused with organic dyes that penetrate and saturate the wood fibres. These dyes are also resistant to fading when exposed to UV rays from artificial light, plus the colour is sustained when cut or machined indiscriminate of intervention size or depth.

Moisture Resistant

Valchromat is moisture resistant and can be used in areas like kitchens and bathrooms etc, it can also be used in protected outdoor applications but requires varnishing on all surfaces and edges.

Finishing

Because Valchromat comes in coloured panels it is ready for production without the need to be painted, and has a fantastic finish if left untouched, however If you want to spruce up your Valchromat for that added finesse a vast array of finishes such as varnish (matte, glossy, aqueous polyurethane, UV resistant, etc.) waxes and oils can be applied.

Before applying any finish, it is important to make sure all the dust is removed from the surface to ensure that you have a flawless finish.

Environmentally Friendly

Valchromat is made from recycled softwood such as waste wood from branches and chips found on forest floors, making it one of the most environmentally friendly products on the market. Using waste wood helps to sustain forests and minimize carbon emissions from the process of cutting down trees. Another aspect of Valchromats environmental credentials is the non-use of the glue that is usually used in standard MDF which contains a toxic substance known as formaldehyde, Valchromat instead uses a special organic non-toxic wood fibre bonding resin that does not contain any formaldehyde and puts Valchromat well within the formaldehyde limits set by European standards for wood based products, allowing Valchromat to be used in the production of children’s toys.

Greater Load Resistance

Valchromat has a high bending resistance due to the manufacturing and compositioning process which consists of using special resins to bond the fibres together which makes it 30% stronger that MDF.

Easy To Machine

Blades used to cut only Valchromat have been shown to have a life span of four times longer than blades used for cutting standard MDF, this is due to the lubricant properties of the melamine based resin used to bond the wood fibres together allowing the blades to glide through with minimum friction. In addition, after machining the panels require very little sanding thereby reducing labour costs and aiding the finishing process.

Summary

Valchromat is one of the most unique, innovative and versatile wood products on the market today that combines high quality engineering, with a high-end luxury finish, all the while being environmentally friendly. It is perfectly suited for designers that want to create something that little bit different and/or add a touch of finesse to their creations.

Check out our range of Valchromat product here https://fulhamtimber.co.uk/sheet-materials/valchromat/