Edgebanding

What Is Edge Banding and When Should You Use It?

Edge banding is the process of applying a thin strip of material, called an edge band, to an exposed edge of a board or panel. Typically made of plastic, wood, or metal materials, the adhesive edge band is intended to improve the appearance and durability of a finished product.

Edgebanding machines use heat and pressure to melt and bond an edge band to the base material, taking what is often a rough and splintering raw edge and creating a smooth and seamless appearance. Edgebanders are typically used in the furniture production and construction industries, for wood products such as furniture, cabinetry, paneling, shelving, and interior finishes.

Selecting the Right Edgebander

Stiles Machinery offers a variety of edgebanding machines, ranging from more straightforward gluing manufacturing to machines that sand, shape, cut, and apply an assortment of edge treatments. Whatever your edge banding needs, Stiles’ collection includes compact, value-focused stand-alone units for small to medium-sized shops, mid-grade machines with various capabilities, and high-performance machines that deliver optimum quality at extremely high production speeds.

Application technology in edge processing has evolved to include various adhesive types and consistently developing application methods—such as compressed hot air and laser systems that melt the surface of an edge band with speedy adhesion for a “zero edge,” seamless look. The airTec technology from HOMAG delivers the same level of quality as HOMAG’s laserTec machines at a lower level of investment.

The airTec edgebanding machines utilize hot air to activate the adhesive on an edge band, creating a seamless and uniform aesthetic outcome. This efficient and affordable process ensures a consistent appearance without any visible joints.

While machines and functions may vary, there are common considerations when choosing an edge processing machine:

• Edge band type: PVC, ABS, PP, PMMA, wood veneer, or melamine
• Size and shape of boards and panels to be edge banded
• Feed speed
• Production speed

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