Processing veneer requires a number of specialized tools and machinery. The price of these machines can, at first, appear high. However, opting for cheaper equipment can lead to a loss of revenue in the long-term.
Understand why using precision equipment can offer a better TCO as we uncover what contributes to the price of processed veneer, how veneer woodworking for marine is different, and what to look for when buying specialized veneer processing machinery.
What determines the price of processed veneer?
The type of wood, its quality, and finish of the veneer all play major roles here. Jointing is a crucial factor in ensuring a premium product.
There are three primary veneer jointing methods:
- Stitching (zig-zag)
- Splicing
- Taping
Stitching works by laying a thread in a zig-zag pattern across the back of veneer slices, whilst splicing involves gluing together multiple pieces. Taping is generally used in repairs.
Splicing is, arguably, the most popular method of jointing premium wood grades of veneer, with custom machinery used to ensure a high-quality finish.
Differences in veneer woodworking between premium veneer and other veneer cutting methods
The cut and quality of your veneers need to be top notch, both for the yachting market and premium furniture space.
The difference between premium veneer like marine veneer and other types of veneer is that marine veneer is cut in a way that preserves the beauty and integrity of the wood grain based on the individual needs and wishes of highly-demanding clientele.
With their pronounced grain pattern, high-end marine veneers are best suited for projects where the grain will be showcased and appreciated. For the yacht industry, for example, this level of craftsmanship and veneer quality is expected, so mistakes and expensive wood wastage should be minimized.
Having the right machinery for specialized cutting methods
With very expensive and exclusive woods that are often used on superyachts, it's important to be extremely careful. High levels of sensitivity are required during the veneer processing process.
The equipment needs to be firm enough to create a good joint, but not so firm that it damages the veneer. Unrefined composite machines can cause the grain to slowly split and crack, creating unnecessary, expensive waste.
It's common for material requirements from clients in the yacht and furniture industries to change the type of veneer fairly often based on design and vision. Your machines need to be sensitive, but also flexible and adaptable – able to easily manage material and specification variance.
Factors to consider when buying veneer processing machinery
When processing veneer for high-end customers, there are a number of things to consider. You don't want to compromise quality by buying a low-quality machine that will break down, be less efficient and produce inferior results.
Seek out manufacturers who can offer the whole process—from cutting and gluing to splicing and jointing. And if you implement automation, be sure it doesn't disrupt existing layouts. In an evolving market, it's wise to look for upgradable, adaptable machines.
Production machines should be designed with standard components from reputable suppliers, ensuring that customers can easily obtain spare parts for the product. This is why an industry-wide reputation for reliability is a good place to start. It goes hand-in-hand with superior technical and sales support.
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