Sicobloc - In Detail

Sicobloc can be worked and transformed with the same processes used for extruded or calendered flexible PVC sheets. In our factory we can polish and laminate Sicobloc. For other processes, we can support you to get the best results based on your ideas.

  

Finishing

Various surface finishes are available: rough, matte, glossy embossed.

    •  Rough finish: rough (R) is the natural outcome of our manufacturing process and it is suitable for applications where Sicobloc must be laminated or when rough touch is a part of the desired effect.
    • Glossy or matte surface: surface finish of Sicobloc can be easily adapted to your needs. In our factory we can polish PVC sheets to transform R surface into perfect matte (M) or glossy (L) finishes. Our process is carried out in a press, so in a single step we polish both surfaces: you can decide if you want sheets with both sides matte (MM) or one side glossy and the other matte (LM) or both side glossy (LL).
    • Embossing: Sicobloc can also be embossed with various textures.
      

    Composition with other materials

    You can also combine Sicobloc with different types of materials to create your own original products.

      • Lamination: Sicobloc can be laminated, alone or even using adhesive layers, with many substrates including other plastic materials such as PC, ABS, PMMA, Acrylates, PVC, TPU and canvas.
      • Technical lamination: Lamination with other plastic polymers can be used to impart different properties to Sicobloc, such as rigidity, thickness and resistance.  Lamination with rigid thermoplastic materials makes the final product thermoformable.
      • Aesthetical lamination with other coloured or printed PVC can enhance the aesthetical appearance creating new effects and colours, maintaining the unique depth of Sicobloc.
      • Bonding: a wide range of glues can be used to bond Sicobloc to many materials: our technical assistance service is ready to advise the best choice for your applications.
      • Welding: Sicobloc is especially suited for high frequency welding, alternatively it can be hot air welded at 130 - 160C.
        

      Cutting

      Sicobloc, alone or in combination with other materials, can be easily cut to create new shapes.

      Sicobloc can be cut using normal tools such as cutters, scissors, punches, trimmer, shears, circular or band saws. Laser cutting is not recommended.

        

      Thermoforming

      Sicobloc can be easily thermoformed, even with a single mould, after laminating with rigid sheets of thermoplastic polymers such as Polycarbonate, Acrylates, PVC, and so on.

      Thermoforming conditions can vary according to thickness, composition and complexity of the shape. Ideal processing temperature is between 120°C and 170°C.

        

      Print

      Sicobloc can be printed by silk-screen printing or other techniques, using standard solvent based inks for PVC. Protection by lamination with a transparent PVC layer is recommended.

        

      Handling and Storage

      Easy to store.

      Sicobloc must be stored in a horizontal position, in a dry and fresh environment and protected from direct light and heat sources to decrease the risk of yellowing and plasticizer migration. If stored for a long time, we recommend to keep paper sheets between to avoid sticking.