A room with a view 29 December 2020

UK-based Future Rooms designs, manufactures and installs a range of garden rooms that create space in any garden. Until recently, the company was buying SIP panels that were ready built from an outside source, now the company manufactures these in-house using a single component, moisture curing polyurethane adhesive from Chemique Adhesives.

A SIP panel, or sandwich panel as they are also known, is an insulating layer of rigid core insulation adhered to two layers of structural board. It is then pressed together under a uniform force until the adhesive has set, resulting in an extremely strong structural insulated panel (SIP).

In 2019, Future Rooms decided to take full control of their production costs and build its own SIP panels onsite, which are used in the manufacture of the garden room and office range. “We wanted a partner that could offer a complete package to assist us in manufacturing the panels,” explained Richard Kocerhan, owner and MD of Future Rooms. “Chemique was able to provide extensive knowledge in panel lamination, recommend the correct adhesive, as well as supply the most suitable adhesive application equipment for the job.”

“Following an initial meeting, it became apparent that a degree of semi-automation was required for making the panels and so we trialled our portable rake system in conjunction with a single component, moisture curing polyurethane adhesive from our Solfre range,” said Phil Carter, Chemique Adhesives business development manager.

This was the perfect combination and allowed Future Rooms to efficiently produce high-quality laminated panels with an easy to use and cost-effective dispensing system. This method also reduces waste and is much cleaner and user friendly compared to more traditional methods of manual application.

The adhesive used with the rake system is Solfre1 – a single component, solvent-free polyurethane product. Solfre1 is suitable for a variety of applications such as construction panels, truck building, caravan panels and many similar uses where a permanent structural bond is required. Its unique formulation provides superior resistance to chemicals, heat, humidity and thermal shock.

Chemique Adhesives also has a team of service engineers on hand, providing assurance that in the event of a breakdown, this can be dealt with quickly and efficiently. The company’s Total Service Package includes tailor-made adhesive solutions combined with full engineering and technical support. Service contracts are also available for added peace of mind.

Established in 1985, Chemique Adhesives is a UK manufacturer of high performance industrial adhesives and adhesive application equipment. Serving a wide range of industries including aerospace, automotive, commercial manufacturing, composites, construction, foam, furniture, marine and transportation, Chemique Adhesives can offer specialist bonding solutions for a multitude of applications whilst providing the highest level of service, support and advice.

Claire Aldridge Deputy Editor t: +44 (0) 1727 743 889

Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.

Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.