Cross-laminated pine or spruce veneer.
Facts
Technical designation: Structural cross-ply veneer/Spruce cross-ply veneer
Density: 0.7 g/cm³
Tolerance: +/- 15 %
Good to know
Structural cross-ply is an unfinished cross-ply that is widely used for many purposes, such as interior design, structures, pavilions, works of art and packaging.
The material consists of layers of spruce veneer and is therefore cheaper than birch veneer. As the wood consists of layers, ‘gaps’ occur between the layers, which are visible at the edges after laser cutting.
Structural plywood usually has a finished side, where knots and similar defects have been filled in. However, this cannot be guaranteed. It also has a smoothed side and a side that may contain knots, indentations and similar defects. This type is bonded with outdoor adhesive, which means it blackens more and develops darker edges than, for example, birch veneer for indoor use.
PLEASE NOTE! Structural veneer is a living material that is affected by temperature and humidity. It will therefore warp over time and may twist.
Line engraving
Structural plywood can be line-engraved. The material takes on a darker shade where it is engraved. The deeper the engraving, the darker the colour. The colour of the engraving, just like the colour of the wood, may vary from sheet to sheet. With deep line engraving, discolouration may occur around the engraved area. However, this can be easily removed by light sanding.
Avoid burn marks
The glue in the wood produces a lot of soot, and the reverse side in particular can become very sooty or burnt. A protective film on the top of the panel can be selected as an option when ordering, which helps to prevent the worst soot and burn marks from the laser. For items that need to look presentable, we always recommend a protective film on both the front and back, or interior birch (with film).
Wood grain
The grain on our structural plywood sheets runs along the length of the sheet. Bear this in mind when preparing your file for laser cutting if you have any preferences regarding the direction of the grain.
Laser cutting
Surface – Along the cut line, the wood will take on a slight dark discolouration. The thicker the sheet, the more discolouration you should expect. This can be removed by light sanding.
Edges – The edges will turn black and may stain other surfaces. Excess soot can be wiped away with a slightly damp cloth, but the edges will remain black even afterwards. Sanding can remove the black edges completely.
Underside – Along the cut line, there will be discolouration from smoke and marks left by the surface on which the material was cut. If the bottom is visible in the finished product, it usually needs to be sanded or painted.
Finishing
Cross-grain veneer can be used untreated, but can be painted, oiled or varnished to seal and protect the surface.
