I have a design conundrum with the raised panels I plan on putting on a SubZero refrigerator. Most custom panels in these refrigerators have one maybe two panels and because of this few joints i.e. lots of large pieces. So when a handle is attached to the stile of a panel the pulling force is spread out over more area. My design incorporates comparatively many more panels and rails in the area of the pull than most designs and I'm concerned that years of opening the doors will eventually pull the assembly apart. My design with handles placed is below.
I should mention that when custom panels are used in a SubZero or similar refrigerator they are actually part of a three panel sandwich. A 1/16 - 1/8" thick panel (the spacer panel) is sandwiched between the decorative raised panel assembly and a 1/4" thick backer panel. The 1/4" backer panel is captured in a metal frame, the spacer panel between that and the decorative panel is to allow for the thickness of the frame so the decorative panel is not interfered with by the frame. I have attached an illustration below.
My knowledge of the epoxies mentioned in my title is that they encapsulate the wood (if painted on all 6 sides) and eliminate moisture from moving in or out of the wood cells. This should presumably prevent wood movement as that is related to moisture changes.
If I were to incorporate epoxy into the assembling of the panels, rails and stiles would this not both glue them up but also keep the wood from moving? The benefit beyond that is that by epoxying the whole sandwich of panels I can create a solid panel for the refrigerator door. Of course the panels would no longer be floating but again if epoxy prevents movement then is a floating panel critical?
Am I off base here? What important facts am I missing?
Subzero cabinetry handle closeup.jpg Subzero cabinetry 3:4.jpg
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