Membrane Presses & Vacuum Presses
thermofoil lamination presses by Almex
Since 1962, Shaw-Almex has manufactured stock and custom presses to meet specific needs in industries such as cabinetry, furniture, and aerospace. Almex thermofoil press technology has been developing since 1994 when their first thermolaminator was engineered.
In 2007, Almex announced the release of the new SmartPin System, offering unparalleled production and automation in high gloss laminate pressing.
Helpful Resources & Breaking News
- Guide to Selecting New & Used Presses and enjoy the Virtual Tour of our facilities.
- Looking for high gloss thermofoil? Almex recommends these thermofoil suppliers.
- Almex is proud to announce the sale of its industry leading laminate press division to Black Brothers!
Membrane Presses
- Maximum Production
- Maximum Definition
- Cabinetry, Furniture
- High Gloss Lamination
- 3D Laminating
- Go to Membrane Presses
Our Laminating Presses offer the highest quality in the thermolaminator industry. We are confident in our thermofoil presses and believe you'll agree. Click to see a comparison chart of the almex thermofoil press versus others in the thermofoil industry.
![]()
Almex Membrane Press Advantages
Aerospace Technology
Shaw-Almex operates in four distinct industries - aerospace, textiles, rubber, and woodworking. By engineering presses for companies like Boeing and NASA, we have developed new aerospace technologies that are integrated into our membrane presses.
High Gloss Lamination
The Almex membrane press provides a top quality and highly efficient solution to the growing demand of high gloss laminate applications.Pressure System
The Almex membrane press does not have ANY hydraulic systems. Press is closed using air pressure only- NO hydraulic pistons, NO seals, and NO leaks
- NO hydraulic oil or filters to change
- NO motors, NO pumps, NO valves, No hoses, and NO leaks
Heating System
Electrically heated aluminum plate does not require any oil system to compensate for hot spots and cold spots- NO oil or filters to change
- NO motors, NO pumps, NO valves, No hoses, and NO leaks
Heater Element
The Almex 'silicone rubber blanket heater' uses variable wattage to eliminate hot spots and cold spots. Nichrome wire heaters provide fast heating, and temperatures up to 392°F (200°C).- NO tubular heaters or calrod heaters, which cause hot and cold spots
Energy Consumption
The energy required to operate an Almex press is almost 50% less then other thermofoil press companies. See our comparison chart to view details.Membrane & Membraneless Operation
The Almex membrane press can ALSO operate "membraneless" without having to remove the membrane. Achieve the advantages of guaranteed edge bonding with the superior heating of a membrane press, COMBINED with the superior definition of a membraneless press! Membrane can be replaced in approximately 30 minutes if necessary.Simplicity
Almex presses offer simplicity in operation and maintenance through the easy-to-learn Touchscreen Control Panel. The SmartPin System offers an example of Touchscreen Control Panel operation.Made in America
Parts and service are readily available and affordable! Many parts can be purchased locally.![]()
Membrane Presses
by Shaw Almex
Our Laminating Presses offer the highest quality in the thermolaminator industry. We are confident in our high gloss lamination presses and believe you'll agree. Click to see a comparison chart of the Almex thermofoil press versus others in the thermofoil industry.
Vacuum Presses
by Shaw Almex
The Shaw-Almex Vacuum Laminate press is one of our best selling machines. Their economical pricing and high production make them a great solution for smaller companies producing thermofoil cabinets as well as many other applications. The vacuum press continues to please customers who enjoy the exceptional definition in their thermofoil doors.
Veneer Membrane Presses
by Shaw Almex
We also manufacture Wood Veneer Press solutions with single and double membrane options. This allows you to press the face and back simultaneously!
Prensas en Espanol
Prensas
Prensas Membranas
Prensas al Vacio
Prensas para Chapa de Madera
Prensas Caucho
What are people saying about the Shaw-Almex System?
![]()
Contact us for more information

