Edge banding is the process of applying thin strips of material to the exposed edges of furniture panels and tabletops to conceal the core material and give a more finished look. When selecting an iron for edge banding, there are a few key factors to consider:
Page Contents
Heat Settings
You’ll want an iron that allows you to precisely control the temperature. Look for an iron with multiple heat settings and the ability to fine-tune temperatures. Most edge banding irons have settings ranging from around 250°F to 450°F.
For PVC and veneer edge bands, 280°F to 320°F is ideal. For polyester and ABS, you’ll need higher temperatures around 320°F to 390°F. Being able to adjust the temperature for different materials gives you optimal results.
Wattage
Higher wattage irons heat up quicker and can maintain an even temperature across the plate. This helps prevent scorching or underheating as you work across a long edge. For edge banding, look for an iron with at least 1600 watts of power.
Plate Material
The plate or soleplate material impacts heat transfer and glide. Many edge banding irons use ceramic plates which heat evenly and glide smoothly. Teflon coated plates are non-stick for easy glide, while stainless steel transfers heat efficiently.
Plate Size
The size of the soleplate matters too. Larger 3-4 inch plates are more efficient for covering wider edge banding in fewer passes. Smaller plates around 1 inch wide give you more precision and control for trim work.
Shape
Look for a soleplate with a squared off tip. The squared shape lets you iron right up to corners and edge joins for crisp results.
Weight
Heavier irons around 2 to 3 pounds apply more consistent pressure and glide more smoothly. Lighter irons are more maneuverable but won’t press the edge banding as evenly.
Features
Variable steam settings give you more control over activating the glues. An LED temperature display helps you set and monitor ideal temperatures. A swivel cord allows easier maneuvering around the workpiece.
Recommendations
Here are some top recommended irons for edge banding:
| Iron | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Powerful Industrial Edge Bander | 2400 watts, digital temp control, 4″ ceramic soleplate, steam settings |
| Wagner Edge Iron | 1550 watts, variable temp 270°F-455°F, anti-drip system |
| Triangle Tool Edge Banding Iron | 1800 watts, teflon coated plate, LED temp settings, swivel cord |
For professional shops doing high volume edge banding, a powerful industrial edge bander with 2400+ watts of power provides consistent results. For home shops or occasional use, a mid-range Wagner or Triangle edge banding iron provides reliable performance at a lower price point.
Using the Iron
Once you have the right iron, proper technique is also key for attaining perfectly glued down edges:
- Let the iron fully preheat to the needed temperature before starting. This allows it to maintain the temp when activated.
- Adjust the heat setting based on the particular edge band material as mentioned previously.
- Work on a heat-resistant surface like wood or MDF. Avoid metal which dissipates heat.
- Press the iron firmly down and hold in place for 10-20 seconds as you work across the edge. Applying consistent pressure ensures solid adhesion.
- Move the iron slowly and steadily along the edge banding. Abrupt movements or pulling too quickly can cause wrinkling.
- Use a scrap piece of wood to iron over hanging over edges. Avoid ironing directly on the table surface.
- Let edges cool completely before trimming excess banding for crisp cuts and bonds.
- Clean any adhesive residue off the iron’s plate while still warm using a soft cloth.
Edge Banding Materials
Setting the iron’s optimal temperature depends on the specific material used for the edge banding:
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride edge bands activate around 280°F. PVC is durable and moisture resistant. It can withstand heat up to 140°F making it suitable for most applications.
ABS
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene edge banding starts to melt around 320°F. ABS offers good impact resistance and color consistency. It’s commonly used for door edges and panels.
Polyester
Polyester edge bands adhere at approximately 320°F to 390°F. Polyester provides a hardwearing finish and has good acoustic insulation properties. It’s often used in office furnishings.
Real Wood Veneers
Natural wood veneers glue around 300°F. Real wood veneers provide an attractive solid wood look. Types like oak, maple, cherry, and walnut are commonly used.
3mm PVC
3mm PVC edging requires lower heat around 250°F-270°F to avoid distortion. 3mm PVC is thick and provides excellent impact resistance for high use areas.
Pre-glued vs. Hot Melt
Edge banding comes in two main types:
Pre-glued
Pre-glued edge banding has an adhesive already applied to the back side. Using an iron activates the heat-sensitive glue. Different adhesives melt at varying temperatures. Pre-glued edges provide quick, clean application with no mess or need to apply separate adhesive.
Hot Melt
Hot melt edge bands require applying liquid or film adhesive before ironing into place. The heat melts the glue to bond the edging. This allows using different glues based on the working materials and environment.
Iron vs. Edge Bander Machine
For small DIY projects, a manual iron offers an inexpensive and effective option. But for production shops doing high volumes, an electric edge bander machine greatly improves efficiency and consistency. Benefits of edge bander machines include:
- Automated process for mass production
- Integrated trimming for fast finishing
- Precise glue application for uniform bonding
- Consistent pressure and heat across edges
- Hands-free operation frees you for other tasks
Electric edge banders represent a major investment but pay dividends through time savings and reliable quality control in a production setting. For most home or hobbyist use, a manual iron still provides good results.
Safety Tips
Observing basic safety precautions when edge banding prevents accidents:
- Unplug the iron when not in use and allow it to fully cool before storage to prevent fire hazards.
- Position the cord safely to avoid tripping hazards or pulling the iron off the work surface.
- Give newly banded edges time to fully cool before handling to avoid burns.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize fume inhalation, especially when melting glue.
- Wear protective gloves and glasses when trimming edged boards.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area to avoid burns.
Conclusion
Edge banding irons provide an effective tool for applying edge treatments to furniture panels and boards. Select an iron with adjustable heat settings, adequate power, a heat-resistant soleplate, and useful features like steam control. Set the temperature based on the particular edging material used. With the proper iron and technique, you can achieve professional looking, durably edged boards.