3D Laminate describes a family of plastic products that can form over a routed core in a thermoforming process. It is also known as rigid thermofoil (RTF) or membrane pressable film. 3D Laminates are designed to be processed in automated equipment such as membrane presses, membraneless presses or vacuum formers. 3D Laminates typically come in thicknesses of 10 mils (250 micron) to 20 mils (500 microns). The ideal thickness for thermoforming depends on the finish and the shape of the part to be formed.
2D Laminates are also plastic films but are typically thinner than the 3D Laminates for economy and improved processing. Despite the difference in thickness, the color, printing and finishing are a perfect match. The performance characteristics such as water-hold out, scratch, stain and wear are very similar. 2D Laminates are processed not in a press, but by flat lamination and profile wrapping. Flat laminated components can be miter-folded to create economical boxes for speakers, furniture and fixture components.