CUSTOM MANUFACTURING
Relative to customization, the ‘world is your oyster’ for this one (of course, within the limits of manufacturing capabilities, and/or capabilities we can jointly create).
As you learned (or see), cork is a very versatile raw material, that can be processed in numerous ways based on the application. But whenever we discuss ‘customization’, an important consideration is ‘use’ and ‘applicability’. By this we mean, even though we can make something for you, it doesn’t always make sense. For example, assume you say, “I want a cork tile that is 4’x4’ in size”. Though we can make it (no problem), the reality is that a tile of this size will inherently have excessive movement. If it is an ‘industrial’ application (one where this doesn’t matter), then OK, but if the intended application is for ‘finished flooring’, then we would push back. We are sticklers with making sure the ‘application fits the product being created’.
Being cork experts, with many decades of manufacturing know-how across all segments of the cork processing and production landscape, this is one of those invaluable things that we bring to the table.
As an overview, here are the main way we can process the cork:
Granulation Size – We can process the cork into dust-sized, all the way to rigid chunks. The use of each in manufacturing varies based on what is being produced, its’ technical attributes (if important), and/or how you want it colored or decorated.
Veneering – Cork veneers come from composite, and ‘reciped’ block (or cylinders), that can take on vast aesthetics. Largely up to the imagination of lines and patterns, we can process in roughly 40 standard aesthetic veneer options, but again, others can be developed.
Manufacturing – Based on the end-goal of the product, the raw material (granules or veneers) is selected, and the most ideal manufacturing method is enlisted. This could be lamination, molding, or a derivative of mixing cork with other material(s) into a composite.
Coloring (ie: decorating) – Again, based on the desired aesthetic and the format of the raw material used, there are multiple methods of further defining the color and/or pattern on the cork. Color can effectively be ‘infused’, pigments (stains or paints) can be applied, or the material can be digital printed.
Cork, being such a versatile material that can be processed in so many ways, the aesthetic reality is largely a function of one’s creative input. We can help you take that ‘light bulb’ and turn it into something innovative and exceptional – and do so with practicality and knowledge as the basis.
