Surface Technology

The Surface Technology course is a module of the CAS Wood-Based Panels programme covering all the conventional coating methodes and latest developments in this field. It provides your with a theory- and practice-based understanding of the coating processes for wood and wood-based panels.

The course:

  • is aimed at researchers, managers and experts in the engineered wood industry, wood and material technology, engineers from processing companies, machine manufacturers and distributors;
  • refreshes your theoretical and practical knowledge of surface coating and refinement;
  • offers you the chance to build a network with specialists from all over the world;
  • gives you the opportunity to benefit from the extensive knowledge of renowned experts;
  • helps you find solutions to real-life problems in everyday business.
Surface Treatment

Factsheet

  • Degree/Certificate Course Certification Surface Technology
  • Duration One week intensive course. E-learning material to standardize the entry level of the course participants will be provided 2 weeks before the start of the course.
  • Schedule Monday to Friday
  • Application deadline The application deadline is at least four weeks before the module begins.
  • ECTS credits 2 ECTS-Credits
  • Costs CHF 2'600.–
    More than one participant registering from the same company we offer a 10% price reduction
  • Teaching language English
  • Location Online
  • School School of Architecture, Wood and Civil Engineering
  • Next session Autumn 2024

Content + Structure

Portrait

The field of wood and surface treatment is developing rapidly: with new material technologies, coatings and processes, as well as continuously evolving standards, your knowledge needs to be constantly updated. Keeping pace with these developments is crucial to remaining competitive. On the Surface Technology course, you will gain an overview of coatings, application systems and their potential, as well as basic information about their environmental performance.

Learning outcomes

This course is taught in an online format and sessions can be easily attended from anywhere in the world. It includes input from industry experts and scientists. An essential part of the course is a case study, were you will immediately practice and apply acquired knowledge.

Topics:
- Raw board characteristics + sanding and surface scanning
- Overview of coating systems
- Fluid coating systems
- Market-trends
- Veneering
- HPL/CPL
- PUR HotCoating
- Powder coating: practice
- LCA of coatings
- Material scarcity
- Smart surfaces
- Foil coating
- Direct paper coating
- Direct printing / printing
- Testing methods
- Industry report - flooring

  • Coaching and individual supervision
  • E-learning
  • Expert sessions (Interview with experts)
  • Independent study (compiling literature, designing projects)
  • Lectures, discussions and knowledge-sharing
  • Laboratory sessions
  • Latest findings from research and development at BFH
  • Presentations by qualified specialists (Industry inputs)
  • Reviewing case studies and exercises

You will complete a case study in groups and present it to a panel of lecturers at the end of the course.

Title + Degree

Course in Surface Technology

You will receive a certificate of completion.

Requirements + Admission

This course is aimed at:

  • managers and experts in engineered wood manufacturing, industrial furniture manufacturing, floor covering and associated industries
  • managers and experts from the research community
  • engineers from processing companies
  • engineers in machine manufacturing and distribution
  • researchers from universities, universities of applied sciences and other research institutions

Entry requirements

University degree (university of applied sciences, university) or diploma in related subjects. Admissions decisions are made by the course leader based on applicants’ academic background and performance (‘sur dossier’).

Academic requirements

University degree (university of applied sciences, university) or diploma in related subjects

Professional prerequisites

Experience of manufacturing engineered wood products is an advantage.

Knowledge + Abilities

Basic knowledge of manufacturing and processing wood and engineered wood products

Language skills

Strong English skills

Practicalities + Application

The week of teaching online consists of 36 lessons. Depending on participants’ existing knowledge, approx. 10–20 hours of self-study are also required.

The intensive program runs from Monday to Friday. Instruction begin each day at 8:30 CET am each day and runs until 4:30 pm CET.

The application deadline is at least four weeks before the module begins.

CHF 2,600

More than one participant registering from the same company we offer a 10% price reduction

Advice

Student advisory service

You are welcome to contact us for a one-to-one consultation.

Location + Facilities

  • Laboratory for the application and drying of liquid coating systems
  • Laboratory for identifying and assessing key surface properties