Flocking
(Fiber Coat)
Flocking is achieved by attaching millions of synthetic or natural fibers to a surface. The flocking process can magically transform a plain, flat, surface into a rich, warm, comfortable and visually inviting velour type texture finish.
What is Flocking?
Flocking is achieved by attaching millions of synthetic or natural fibers to adhesive coated surfaces. Over the years, flocking technology and materials have evolved and today a vast range of effects are achievable. A Flocked or fiber coated finish imparts decorative and functional characteristics to the surface. It can enhance the quality of and add value to almost any surface in several ways. The flocking process can magically transform a plain, flat, surface into a rich, warm, comfortable and visually inviting velour type texture finish.
This deluxe finish can create:
A soft velvety surface on a hard molded plastic
A non-scarring surface on metals
A highly abrasive smooth surface
A luxurious look and feel
A preferred method for squeak and rattle prevention
Often used in noise reduction and dampening applications
Can Flock take abuse?
Many flocked products are designed to meet a wide variety of high strength, high abrasion and touch durability specifications. These specifications are met by combining the correct substrate, adhesive, fiber and flocking method. Flocked products are designed to withstand heavy daily use. Typical uses for flocked products in the automotive industry are flocked: Glove Boxes, Console Bins, Coin Trays, Window Extrusions and other various components.
The primary reasons for flocking:
Superior Decorative and Visual Appeal
Friction Characteristics to prevent squeaks and rattles.
Sound Dampening – Noise Reduction
Heat Insulation and Thermal Stability
Increasing Surface Area for Evaporation and Filtration
Cushioning and Protection
3-D Object Flocking
We currently offer 3-D object flocking: Object flocking – flocking onto three dimensional substrates.
Typical Flocked 3-D Object components include:
Automotive:
Glove Boxes, Console Bins, Sunglass Holders, Coin Trays, Interior Components, Springs and Noise Reduction Components.
Consumer Goods:
Springs for rattle and noise reduction, Jewelry Trays & Drawers, Closet Organizers, Figurines, and crafting items.
Typical Flocking Process
Our Flocking Process
1.
Applying water-based adhesive to the substrate. In cases where the substrate components are made of materials that do not adhere well to adhesive alone, we apply a primer to the substrate prior to the adhesive to change the surface tension to allow the adhesive to properly adhere to the substrate.
2.
Apply Flock Fibers to substrate. We electrostatically charge the flock fibers with a high-tension electric supply to enable the fiber ends to properly embed into the adhesive layer.
3.
Curing the flocked components. We use a heated oven to remove most of the water within the adhesive layer so that the components can be handled without risking damage to the flocked surface.
4.
Blow-Off / Vacuum the substrates to remove any un-attached fibers from the components. This process is to make handling the flocked components easier and cleaner for the end users.
Typical Flocked Components
