FreeHPL Laminate Sheets and Compact Panels
HPL (high-pressure laminate) is a hard decorative sheet 0.8–1 mm thick that is glued onto MDF or chipboard; compact HPL is a solid laminate panel 6–12 mm thick that needs no core.
HPL laminate sold for furniture
| Board | Thicknesses | Common sheet sizes |
|---|---|---|
| HPL laminate sheet | 0.8 mm, 1 mm | 3050 × 1300, 2440 × 1220 |
| Compact HPL | 6 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm | 3050 × 1300 |
HPL laminate thicknesses
HPL laminate is sold in 0.8 mm (1/16"), 1 mm (1/16"), 6 mm (1/4"), 10 mm (3/8"), 12 mm (1/2"). For furniture carcasses and doors, 16–19 mm is standard; thin sheets are for backs and drawer bottoms.
HPL laminate sheet sizes
- 3050 × 1300 mm (120 1/16" × 51 3/16")
- 2440 × 1220 mm (96 1/16" × 48 1/16")
Weight of a 2440 × 1220 mm sheet
At a typical density of 1350–1450 kg/m³:
| Thickness | Weight per sheet |
|---|---|
| 6 mm | 24–26 kg (53–57 lb) |
| 10 mm | 40–43 kg (88–95 lb) |
| 12 mm | 48–52 kg (106–115 lb) |
Advantages
- Very hard-wearing and heat resistant
- Compact panels are waterproof
Drawbacks
- Needs gluing (thin sheets)
- Hard on tools
What it is used for
- Worktops and tables
- Bathroom and lab furniture (compact)
Tips for working with HPL laminate
- Laminate both faces of a panel to keep it flat.
Frequently asked questions
Is HPL the same as melamine?
No. HPL is a thicker, tougher laminate; melamine is a thin paper fused onto board.
