Manually or automatically moved table to feed a membrane press.

Before the pressing process, the table needs to be charged properly with pre-glued work pieces and the desired coating material. If there is no pin-system available, suitable spacers have to be used. Then the table is moved into the press and the pressing process gets started. In the next step the table leaves the press and the parts can be cut-out. By varying the numer and configuration of the tables, cycle times and working load of the press can be changed.

The following options exist:

• one table: All procedures run on the same table one after the other; only suitable for small batch sizes.
• two tables: One table is charged and discharged while the other one is in the press - positions change after the pressing process. Typical configurations: both on the same side (revolving) or on opposite sides.
• three or more tables: Charging, pressing and discharging happen simultaneously on seperate tables. Rational system for large batch sizes.
• through feed: transportation via film strips. This system is only suitable for pressing veneer, where there are no spacers needed.

Additional enhancements are possible. Bürkle for instance rotates the table after pressing (multi-turning). That puts aside the rotation of the work pieces in order to be able to cut-off the film.

Normal lay-up tables allow a work piece height up to 70 mm, depending on the manufacturer. When using a higher frame, moulded parts up to 200 mm height can be pressed. That means the membrane is exposed to bigger stress which leads to faster wastage.