What Is Membrane Pressing? PVC Foil Wrapping Step by Step

Membrane pressing is the method of applying PVC foil to MDF parts using heat and pressure. The foil wraps the face, the edges and CNC-routed profiles in a single piece, giving door and cabinet fronts a seamless surface with no visible joints.

How does a membrane press work?

Foil is laid over the parts placed on the machine table. When the press closes, the foil is heated until it softens, then vacuum and pressure push it into every recess of the part. In some applications a heat-resistant silicone membrane sits on top of the foil; it spreads the pressure evenly and helps the foil bond properly even on deep profiles.

PVC foil wrapping step by step

1. MDF preparation: Parts are cut to size, profiles are routed on the CNC and sharp corners are rounded. A smooth, clean base directly determines the quality of the finish.
2. Dust removal: Chips and dust are blown off with compressed air. Even the smallest remaining particle shows up as a bump under the foil.
3. Applying the adhesive: Membrane press adhesive is sprayed evenly over the faces and edges with a compressor-driven spray gun, then left to dry.
4. Pressing: The foil is laid down and the press is started. The recommended values for our Membrane Press Adhesive are about 60 °C, 2–6 bar of pressure and a pressing time of 70–130 seconds depending on conditions.
5. Trimming and final inspection: Once the parts have cooled, excess foil is trimmed from the edges. Faces, edges and profiles are checked for bubbles, wrinkles and lifting.

Common mistakes

• Too little adhesive: Adhesive that is too thin, especially on edges and profiles, eventually causes the foil to lift.
• Pressing before it dries: Pressing before the adhesive has fully dried can leave bubbles and ripples on the surface.
• Wrong temperature: Too little heat stops the foil from settling into the profiles, while too much heat can change its gloss and colour.
• A worn membrane: A torn membrane, or one that has lost its elasticity, cannot spread pressure evenly.

The right materials for trouble-free production

Alongside our PVC foil patterns, Arvello Dekor also supplies membrane press adhesive and membrane silicone that withstands 230 °C.

Explore our adhesive and membrane products