Introduction to PE Rattan
PE rattan, short for polyethylene rattan, is a synthetic material widely used in the production of outdoor furniture, such as loungers, benches, sofa sets, and dining sets. It is often referred to by various names, including plastic rattan, synthetic rattan, faux rattan, or artificial rattan.
At Garden Furniture we only supply high quality rattan furniture made with PE Rattan.
While many people mistakenly interchange “rattan” and “wicker,” it’s important to clarify that they are not the same. Rattan is a type of climbing palm used as a raw material for weaving furniture, whereas wicker refers to the technique of weaving itself.
Key Features of PE Rattan
PE rattan is engineered to mimic the natural appearance of rattan but offers superior durability and cost-effectiveness. Its robust nature allows it to withstand a variety of harsh outdoor elements, including rain, snow, UV rays, and fluctuating temperatures. This resilience means that furniture made from PE rattan can be left outside year-round without the risk of damage, making it an excellent alternative to traditional natural rattan.
Composition of PE Rattan
PE rattan is predominantly made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a type of plastic known for its strength and flexibility. The manufacturing process incorporates various additives, including:
- Pigments: For color and aesthetic appeal.
- Antioxidants: To enhance durability and prevent degradation.
- Anti-UV agents: To shield against sun damage and fading.
- Light stabilizers: To prolong the life of the material under UV exposure.
Among synthetic rattan options—such as PVC and PU—PE rattan stands out for its combination of high strength, flexibility, and aesthetic quality, making it the preferred choice for many outdoor furniture manufacturers.
Manufacturing Process of PE Rattan
As one of the leading PE rattan manufacturers in China, we have a deep understanding of the production process. Here’s how PE rattan is made:
Material Preparation: The required materials are thoroughly mixed to achieve a uniform consistency.
Extrusion: The mixture is fed into an extrusion machine, where it is subjected to high temperatures. The extruder shapes the material into long strips of rattan.
Cooling: The newly formed strips are directed into a cooling bath to set and solidify.
Embossing: Specific patterns are then created on the surface of the semi-finished rattan using an embossing machine, adding texture and enhancing its natural appearance.
Final Processing: The finished rattan strips are rolled and packed for distribution. Traditional shapes like flat and half-round are often machine-rolled, while more intricate designs like twisted rattan require manual handling.
Secondary Molding Process
PE rattan undergoes a unique secondary molding process to improve its structure:
Melting: PE resin granules are placed in a hot-melt extruder, where they melt down.
Forming: The melted material is injected into a one-time forming mold, creating a soft, semi-finished rattan strip.
Cooling and Shaping: The semi-finished strip enters a cooling bath to further solidify. It is manipulated to form a rattan strip with an irregular cross-section, adding a three-dimensional quality that closely resembles natural rattan.
Types of PE Rattan
PE rattan comes in several types, each with distinct characteristics:
Flat PE Rattan: The most commonly used type, known for its ease of weaving and versatility. Typically, it is 6-10mm wide and 1.3-1.4mm thick.
Half Moon PE Rattan: Also known as half-round rattan, it features a curved cross-section that provides enhanced texture and visual interest compared to flat rattan.
Round PE Rattan: Available in solid and hollow forms, round PE rattan is robust and has a higher bearing capacity, making it suitable for larger outdoor furniture pieces.
Benefits of Using PE Rattan for Outdoor Furniture
PE rattan provides numerous advantages, making it a popular choice for outdoor applications:
Aesthetic Appeal: Designed to mimic the look of natural rattan, it can be customized with various patterns and colours, enhancing the overall aesthetic of outdoor furniture.
Water Resistance: With its non-porous structure, PE rattan is completely waterproof. This feature allows it to resist moisture effectively, minimizing the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Weather Resistance: PE rattan is built to withstand various weather conditions, including UV exposure, rain, and snow. It retains its colour and integrity, making it suitable for year-round outdoor use.
Versatile Applications: The material is suitable for a wide range of products, from outdoor furniture like chairs and tables to decorative crafts.
Durability: The high strength of HDPE makes PE rattan exceptionally durable, with a lifespan of up to 8-10 years under proper care.
Low Maintenance: PE rattan is easy to clean; simply rinse it with water or wipe it with a damp cloth to remove dirt and stains.
Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled polymer materials, PE rattan is non-toxic and poses no harm to the environment or human health.
Cost-Effective: Compared to natural materials, PE rattan is both durable and affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice for outdoor furniture.
Customisable: As a man-made material, it offers diverse design options, including various colours, patterns, and thicknesses, allowing for tailored solutions to meet specific needs.
Comfortable Touch: Unlike metals, which can become hot or cold, PE rattan maintains a comfortable temperature, making it pleasant to use in various weather conditions.
Conclusion
PE rattan is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture due to its combination of aesthetic appeal, durability, and low maintenance. Whether you’re looking to furnish a patio, garden, or balcony, furniture made from PE rattan provides both comfort and style while standing up to the elements. With a range of types and customisation options available, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for your outdoor space.
