Bradly Larkan, vice president North America, Kleiberit Adhesives USA, inc. speaks to Wood & Panel on the American market, the revolutionary HotCoating technology in the US and more during AWFS, Las Vegas. Excerpts.
As we know, Kleiberit is promoting HotCoating in Europe, what about America?
Yes, HotCoating is also used in the USA but slightly different to what is happening in Europe. In Europe, the HotCoating is used mainly on a flat panel applications, while in the USA it’s more roll to roll HotCoating to protect and enhance decor top surface on paper or vinyl which is then later wrapped. A large volume is used in the flooring industry.
What are the main applications for this product?
The main end use is for profile wrapped products or a flat lamination products for the manufacturing of flooring parts which require high performance levels. HotCoating used on roll to roll for the flooring industries requires having performance groups, AC1 TO AC 5. Our HotCoating achieves these performance levels and exceeds them in most cases.
You have a strong association with Barberán in Europe. Do you have the same association or relation in US market or are you jointly doing anything here?
We work very closely with all machine manufacturers, Barberán included but not exclusively. HotCoating applications for roll to roll we work closely with the Huser Machine company in Germany.
What about Digital Printing?
Digital print can be incorporated or be integrated into either process and is a very popular option in new builds in both USA and Europe.
What do you see the growth of Kleiberit in North American market?
We have extremely large growth expectations. We are breaking into new markets as well as existing markets and customer acquisition is our main focus.
What are the new markets you are trying to penetrate?
We are taking polyurethane technology in which we are very successful worldwide and we are conquering new markets, for example, automotive, packaging and bookbinding markets which is outside of the core competency of woodworking.
