Office Furniture Products Quality Overview
In the construction of Office Furniture, there are a number of styles, finishes and overall product quality levels available. Generally, the retail pricing structure of most products is determined by the choice of materials used in manufacturing of the products.
Particle Board
All comparable manufacturers use Particle Board as the basic element to the product. Varying degrees of board density (graded on a PSI numbered scale) determine the strength and durability of the raw board [generally the higher the number, the greater the board strength].
AXIOM Products are manufactured with 47.5 PSI particle board, considered "Commercial Grade" and the highest board density readings you'll find in the industry.
Many manufactures will use particle board with PSI reading of between 15 - 30, which drastically reduces the cost of the product, but in turn puts a severe strain on the overall product quality.
Laminate Finishes
A major determing factor in the overall product is the finish of the raw board. The following briefly describes the most common laminate finishes:
1: Veneer
A very thin slice of solid wood that is thermally applied with a glue to the board. This method requires very special handling and care, and is very susceptible to scratching. Final stage includes a wood stain for color, and is finished with a lacquer or varnish.
2: High Pressure Laminate (HPL)
A highly durable and scratch resistant Melamine covering that is thermally glued to the particle board. A very time-consuming application process that adds great expense to overall cost of finished goods.
3: Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL)
A "Commercial Grade" Melamine covering that is highly durable and almost as scratch resistant as the HPL. This method thermally fuses the melamine to the particle board, making it impossible to peel. This method, in conjunction with high density-particle board makes for best quality at a competitive retail price.
4: Resin-Foil Paper
The economical method selected by many manufactures to meet with budget-oriented products with less emphasis on product strength and durability. Process requires thin sheet to be glued to the particle board. Very susceptible to peeling and bubbling (contact with water), board warping and scratches. This is usually used in conjunction with lower-density particle board which jeopardizes the overall quality of the product.