An edge banding machine is a machine used to create decorative edges on panels and boards. The machine cuts the edges of the wood and then applies colored edge strips or other materials using an adhesive to hold the edging firmly in place.
It can be used for decorative purposes, such as creating a sealed edge pattern from cut wood or different types of metal.
What is edge banding?
edge banding is a term used to describe the process of reinforcing or covering the edges of wooden furniture by applying a strip of edge banding (a thin strip) to the surface.
Simply put, edging solves the problem of unsightly and raw edges on furniture. It also reduces the effects of liquid spillage, atmospheric humidity, and available moisture. This helps to protect the wood panels in the furniture from damage.
How do edge banding machines work?
Most edge banding machines feed the cut edge into the machine, which is then tightly laminated to the finished particle board. A roller or heat gun is then heated to activate the glue and hold the strip. A clamp then presses the strip firmly against the edge of the board while it is moved through the roller press for a few seconds to ensure that all parts of the strip are sufficiently glued.
A second roller or heat gun applies more heat to melt any remaining adhesive, allowing you to quickly cut off any excess strapping material, and the board is then ready for use.
Here are 4 other ways to apply edge banding
l Hot air/laser
l Ironing
l Laser edge grinding
l Edge Banding Tape
What products can have edge banding applied?
Most solid wood products do not have edge banding. Still, if you are using plywood or MDF panels in your furniture, we recommend applying edge banding to improve your products overall durability. The sides of boxes and drawer fronts made of solid wood with high-pressure laminate tops also require edge banding.
Common materials used for edge banding
There are many different materials used for edge banding, so lets look at some of the materials to which edge banding can be applied.
PVC
This material has excellent adhesive strength, and it is easier to use. The main disadvantage of PVC edging is that it is not biodegradable and, therefore, cannot be recycled.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) edge banding is an excellent environmentally friendly alternative to PVC edge banding. Because of its high impact resistance, low density, good bonding properties, recyclability, and incineration safety.
Note: We recommend using a 3 mm edge when using PVC because it adheres easily and faster and has better adhesion. It also creates a smooth and beautiful premium look on rough edges. 0.5 mm edge can be challenging to use, especially for beginners - it can make the edges too sharp.
Wood Veneer
Wood veneer is a preferred edge banding material for wood drawer fronts, plywood cabinet sides, and MDF closet doors. Wood veneer has pre-sanded characteristics and benefits of attractiveness, strength, and durability. It provides a clean, solid wood look that seamlessly fits most wood furniture.
Veneer edge banding is produced by joining thin pieces of wood that are joined into rolls using finger joints to form a continuous roll of primary veneer. Common species used to make veneer include maple, mahogany, walnut, oak, ash, and birch. Veneer paneling strips usually have a thermosensitive adhesive backing. In addition, it is available in a wide range of thicknesses for different applications.
Note: Wood veneer is not heat resistant, so do not use edge banding made from wood veneer near heaters.
Solid Wood
Solid wood has been the first choice for edge banding in many applications. The material has a natural look and feels that works with almost any type of furniture. Woodworking professionals prefer solid wood edge strips because they are durable, affordable, easy to repair, and recyclable for refinishing. Compared to wood veneer edge banding, solid wood is more resistant to chipping. Solid wood glue is also more reliable and less likely to peel.
Solid wood edging strips are available in various thicknesses to provide additional dimensional support for plywood and MDF.
Acrylic/PMMA
PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) is an acrylic resin that is one of the most durable edge banding options. It is a rigid, chip-resistant material that is as thin as 0.075 mm and as thick as 12 mm. This makes it ideal for heavy-duty applications such as flooring or worktops.
Note: PMMA is heat resistant and can be used near hot equipment such as microwaves or ovens. However, due to their delicate nature, acrylic banding strips may provide a different level of dimensional stability when installed into cabinet doors and drawer fronts than wood veneer or solid wood strips.
Laser banding/Zero Seam banding
Thanks to the 100% adhesive-free functional layer, this modern form of edge banding offer the possibility of permanently functional and invisible joints in finished components. Seamless bonding creates a permanent, functional, and invisible joint. The laser process can be used on various materials, including wood and engineered wood substrates.
How to choose the suitable edge banding machine
There are two types of edge banding machines; fully automatic edge banding machines and semi-automatic edge banding machines.
Semi-automatic edge sealers can do many things, including preheating, scraping, coating, trimming, and polishing. It is mainly suitable for edge banding of MDF and joinery products.
A fully automatic edging machine provides essential functions such as pre-sanding, trimming, scoring, polishing, grooving, banding, binding, coating, and surface repair, which are more efficient and accurate.
The automatic edge banding machine is mainly applied to medium solid wood panels, medium-sized furniture, cabinets, polymer door panels, planer beds, and plywood.
Advantages of edge banding
1. It is a simple process, with no need for sanding, staining, or finishing.
2. Edge banding strips are easy to replace when damaged or worn.
3. edge banding provides additional protection to the wood surface.
4. It adds a professional finish, thereby increasing the value of the furniture.
5. It is more affordable than solid wood edging, which requires staining or varnishing after assembly.
6. Exterior appearance. You can also choose from various decorative tapes with different colors, finishes, and textures.
7. It strengthens the edges of furniture, making it more durable and less fragile than solid banding. This is especially important for furniture with frequent use or unnecessary roughness (e.g., tables).
8. The edge banding provides a smooth and clean finish to your furniture.
9. It is easy to remove if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
10. Protects edges from damage caused by dust and liquid spills (such as milk and other beverages) that accumulate over time.
Conclusion
Edge banding is easy and fun to use if you choose suitable materials and a good edge sealer for your project. Each type of edge sealer has advantages, so weighing them against your budget and specific application before making a final decision is essential.
Nanxing Group is a professional edge banding machine manufacturer and can provide you with the most complete and comprehensive woodworking equipment solutions.