Components	Task 2 10
Task
Characteristics of surface
Suitable surface preparation method
Tools and equipment
Material requirements
WHS requirements

Work Instructions and specifications

Task:

To prepare curved surface of a veneered board table top.

Work specifications:

• Table top dimensions:
  • Diameter - 40 cm
  • Height - 30 cm
  • Thickness - 18 mm
• Surface material- Veneered board
• Surface characteristics:
  • Wood Type - veneer, fine-grained
  • Surface Condition - Pre-sanded with imperfection
  • Imperfections - Small bubbles, seams
  • Moisture Content - 6% to minimise the risk of wrapping
  • Recommendation: Use of a wood filler and sanding
• Surface preparation technique - Sanding (mechanical sanding)
• Surface coating material - 2 coats of Lacquer

Materials used:

• Sand paper
• Tack cloth
• Wood filler
• Lacquer

Tools and equipment used:

• Power sanders - Essential for efficiently sanding the curved surfaces of the veneered table top.
• Sand paper- To refine the surface
• Fixed belt/ stroke sanders - Useful for initial, heavier sanding to quickly shape or smooth the surface before finer sanding.
• Liquid containers - Needed to hold the lacquer before application.
• Brushes - Required for applying lacquer
• Wood filler - To fill any imperfections or grain inconsistencies in the veneer before sanding
• Tack cloth -Necessary to wipe down the wood after sanding, ensuring it is free of dust and debris before applying the finish.
• Steel wool/ scourers- For smoothing between coats of lacquer and for final finishing touches. Steel wool can be used to buff the surface gently to a high gloss finish.
• Air compressor- To remove all dust from the surface.

Work instructions:

Step 1 -Inspection and preparation

• Carefully examine the table top for any defects, scratches, or loose veneer. Make a note of any areas that need special attention.
• Ensure the workspace is clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated. Set up your equipment and materials so everything is easily accessible.

Step 2 - Fill imperfections

• Use wood filler to patch any small holes or imperfections in the veneer. Choose a filler that matches the colour of the veneer as closely as possible.
• Let the filler dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Lightly sand the filled areas with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth, flush finish with the rest of the table top.

Step 3 - Sand the surface

• Using a fixed belt sander or an orbital sander, start sanding with a medium-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120 grit) to even out the entire surface, focusing particularly on smoothing the filled areas.
• Switch to finer grit sandpapers (e.g., 180 grit, then 240 grit) to refine the surface. Ensure all areas are evenly sanded and that the transition between the veneer and any filled spots is seamless.
• After each sanding phase, use an air compressor to remove all dust from the surface and surrounding area.

Step 4 - Apply lacquer

• Stir the lacquer gently in a liquid container to ensure it is well-mixed without creating bubbles.
• Apply a small amount of lacquer to an inconspicuous area to test for adhesion and colour match.
• Using a high-quality brush apply the first coat of lacquer smoothly and evenly. Follow the grain of the wood to achieve the best results.
• Allow the lacquer to dry completely, as per the manufacturer's instructions

Step 5: Sand between coats

• Once the first coat is dry, lightly sand the surface with very fine steel wool or 320-grit sandpaper. This helps the next coat of lacquer adhere better.
• Wipe the surface with a tack cloth to remove all sanding dust.

Step 6 - Additional coats

• After the first coat is fully dry and the surface is prepped, apply a second coat of Apply a second coat of lacquer, if required.
• Allow ample time for the final coat to cure completely.

Step 7 - Final inspection and clean-up

• Check the surface in good light for any runs, sags, or imperfections. If necessary, lightly buff any flaws out with steel wool.
• Properly clean and store all tools and materials.
• Ensure that brushes and containers are thoroughly cleaned with the appropriate solvents and that all waste is disposed of responsibly

Quality requirements

• The surface must be evenly sanded with no visible scratches or gouges.
• The lacquer must be applied evenly without drips, sags, or brush marks.
• The final surface should have a uniform gloss or sheen.
• Ensure the lacquer is fully cured to achieve maximum durability and resistance.
• The lacquer should adhere well to the veneer without peeling or lifting
• The finished colour should be consistent across the entire surface, without any blotching or uneven staining

Safety instructions

• Wear appropriate PPE
• Ensure that the work area is well-ventilated to dissipate harmful vapours from the lacquer.
• Ensure all power tools and equipment are properly maintained and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Read and follow all manufacturer guidelines for handling and disposal of lacquer and other chemicals.
• Use appropriate containers for mixing and application to avoid spills.