Evaluation of Selected Properties of Alder Wood as Functions of Sanding and Coating

Abstract

The objective of this study was to optimize the sanding and coating processes of black alder wood to promote and support its use in furniture manufacturing. Two criteria have been applied for process optimization, namely, the minimum surface roughness of the samples and power consumption during sanding as a function of various sanding systems. The surface roughness of the sanded specimens and the power consumption during sanding strongly depends on the grit size used. Two eco-varnishes were applied to the samples by spraying. Moreover, the effect of the surface preparation and varnish type on the coating properties expressed by the varnish layer adherence to the substrate and surface glossiness was evaluated. For better glossiness values, the UV-cured varnish was preferred. The sanding with a grit sequence of 60, 120, and 150 grit size abrasives was found to be optimal when applied to black alder wood, and it is recommended to obtain performant UV-coated wood surfaces for furniture products.