Fig. 7 shows a product made from laminated timber strips. The timber has been selected for its working properties and appearance. Different types of timber ...

(a) Name the process used to produce this curved shape [1]

The process is laminating (lamination) [1]. Multiple thin strips of wood are glued together and bent around a shaped former, producing a strong, permanently curved component.

(b) Describe the stages of this process [4]

1. Thin strips of wood (veneers) are cut to the required width and length [1]. They must be thin enough to bend without breaking.
2. Adhesive (such as PVA or synthetic resin) is applied evenly to both faces of each strip [1]. Even coverage prevents dry spots that would weaken the laminate.
3. The glued strips are placed together and positioned in a former / jig that has been shaped to the required curve [1]. The former determines the final shape of the component.
4. The assembled strips are clamped firmly in the former using G-clamps or sash clamps, applying even pressure along the full length. The adhesive is left to dry completely before the finished laminate is removed from the former [1].

(c) Give one advantage of this process compared to steam bending [1]

Any one from the following for [1]:

• The finished shape is stronger than a single piece of steam-bent wood because the alternating grain directions of the laminations reinforce each other.
• There is less spring-back - steam-bent wood tends to partially straighten when released from the former, whereas laminated wood holds its shape because each strip is individually glued in position.
• Tighter curves can be achieved - individual thin strips can bend to a much smaller radius than a single thick piece.
• Different types of wood can be combined for visual effect, mixing lighter and darker veneers for a decorative layered appearance.