Technology
3D, the abbreviation for three dimensional, describes objects that have volume and may be measured and
described using three distinctive directions. Three dimensional products have been in existence for many
years. Making a three dimensional structure (molding) has been well developed with the use of many different
substrates and applications but these tend to be distinctly formed applications i.e. Head liners and ABC
automotive panels. Embossing is a process of imparting a shallow design. Woven, knits and nonwoven substrates
have been embossed although the process is typically applied to paper and used to create a decorative pattern.
Novolon is a revolutionary thermo mechanical DEEP MOLDING technology that transforms a two dimensional textile
substrate into a three dimensional product. In this case, deep molding is exemplified in the fabric itself,
not just the shape of the end use application.
In simplest terms, the process involves taking a planar fabric and transforming it to have dimension.
The molds and geometries take many different forms, but they are typically categorized as either
inter-digitated (Fig. A) or male/female (Fig. B) configurations. The inter-digitated pattern will have the
same appearance from both sides of the product. The male/female molds will be flat on one side and have
protruding domes on the other.
The height of the dome can range from 1-50mm and the width of the dome up to 100mm. The process
involves the appropriate application of heat, pressure and time to create the deep molded substrate.
The molding process can be achieved through platen presses or a calendar molding process.
Figure A
Figure B
