HPL (High Pressure Laminate)

HPL (Volkern): Engineering-Grade Composites for Extreme Durability

High-Pressure Laminate (HPL), widely recognized in the Dutch market as Volkern, is a high-density thermoset composite engineered for exceptional mechanical strength and long-term stability. At SRT Plastics, we supply and [CNC machine] premium HPL grades tailored specifically for the Machine Building and Electrotechnical sectors. Every grade in our range is backed by technical data and available with a Certificate of Conformity to support your project’s regulatory requirements.

Industrial Compact (Volkern) – Mechanical & Electrical

As the primary choice for machine building and power distribution, Industrial HPL is a heavy-duty laminate with a high strength-to-weight ratio. Its non-conductive properties make it the superior choice for HPL mounting plates and insulating spacers in electrical assemblies. With high scratch and impact resistance, this grade maintains dimensional stability even under mechanical stress, providing a maintenance-free solution for internal machine linings and work surfaces.

Exterior HPL – UV Stability & Weathering

Engineered for exposure to the elements, Exterior HPL includes a protective top layer that resists UV degradation and severe weather conditions. This grade is widely used in construction and outdoor infrastructure for protective cladding and control panels. It maintains its structural integrity and color even in environments with high moisture and fluctuating temperatures, making it a robust alternative to metal or timber in corrosive atmospheres.

Flame Retardant (FR) HPL – High Compliance

For projects where fire safety is the primary technical priority, Flame Retardant (FR) HPL is manufactured with specialized additives to meet strict international standards. This grade is essential for components used in public infrastructure, transport, and high-voltage electrical cabinets. It offers the same mechanical advantages as standard Volkern but provides the necessary certification to comply with fire safety benchmarks like EN 13501-1.

ABS Material Highlights

Explore the technical properties that make ABS the industry benchmark for durable housings, complex moldings, and professional-grade industrial panels.
  • Exceptional Mechanical Strength & Impact Resistance

    Exceptional Mechanical Strength & Impact Resistance

    • High-Density Composite: Manufactured under extreme pressure and heat, HPL offers a superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to many metals and standard thermoplastics.
    • Surface Hardness: Highly resistant to scratching, gouging, and heavy impact, making it ideal for high-traffic work surfaces and industrial machine linings.
    • Dimensional Stability: Even in large formats, HPL maintains its shape and structural integrity under mechanical stress and fluctuating temperatures.
  • Superior Electrical Insulation & Safety

    Superior Electrical Insulation & Safety

    • Non-Conductive Properties: As a natural insulator, HPL is a critical material for the electrotechnical sector, used extensively for mounting plates and busbar supports.
    • Dielectric Strength: Provides reliable protection in high-voltage environments, preventing electrical arcing and ensuring the safety of industrial control cabinets.
    • Flame Retardancy: Available in specialized FR (Flame Retardant) grades that comply with strict international fire safety standards like EN 13501-1 for public infrastructure.
  • Chemical Resistance & Environmental Durability

    Chemical Resistance & Environmental Durability

    • Non-Porous Surface: The dense surface prevents the absorption of moisture, bacteria, and chemicals, making it exceptionally easy to clean and sanitize.
    • Weather & UV Resistance: Exterior grades are specifically engineered to withstand prolonged sun exposure, rain, and frost without fading or delaminating.
    • Industrial Inertness: Highly resistant to most organic solvents, acids, and cleaning agents, ensuring a long service life in harsh laboratory or factory environments.

HPL (High-Pressure Laminate) Material Selection and Compliance Standards

Performance Standards and Environmental Compliance

HPL (Volkern) is a high-performance thermoset composite engineered for extreme durability and technical reliability. It meets the most stringent international standards for mechanical strength and safety in industrial environments. Information for all Plastic Classifications, Certificates and Standards is available for download in the following tab. Also see our informative page on plastic standards and certifications here.

Chemical Resistance High (Resistant to organic solvents, mild acids, alkalis, and industrial disinfectants)
Mechanical Strength Exceptional flexural and tensile strength; high density ensures zero warping under load.
Sustainability Certifications Long-life cycle material; available with FSC/PEFC certification for sustainable procurement.
Fire Safety Compliant with EN 13501-1 (Class B-s1, d0) for high-risk public and industrial zones.

Engineering and Material Selection Guide (Industrial vs. Exterior)

Choosing the correct HPL grade depends on the primary environmental stress factor. Industrial Compact: Focuses on dielectric strength and mechanical stiffness, making it the standard for electrical mounting plates and machine bases. Exterior Grade: Features an integrated UV-resistant surface that prevents delamination and fading when exposed to sun and rain. Flame Retardant (FR): Specifically treated to self-extinguish and limit smoke production, required for transport and high-voltage cabinets. Thermal Note: HPL remains stable up to 80°C for continuous use and can withstand short-term dry heat up to 180°C without surface damage. See the full product range below for technical specifications on all grades.

Application Focus Optimized for Machine Building, electrical insulation, laboratory worktops, and outdoor cladding.
Thermal Limits Continuous service up to 80°C; excellent resistance to thermal shock.
Surface Finish Satin, Matte, or Textured (Black, Grey, White, and various industrial colours).
Environmental Stability 100% moisture resistant; resistant to rot, corrosion, and bacterial growth.
Thickness Range Available from 2.0mm to 30.0mm+ for structural and mounting applications.

Explore Our ABS Range

Explore our selection of high-impact ABS sheets below, available in smooth, grained, and high-gloss finishes to meet the specific aesthetic and structural requirements of your engineering project.
  • HPL (Architectural)

    HPL (Architectural)

  • HPL (Universal)

    HPL (Universal)

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