T6 Laminating a curved component, plus other bending methods (4–5 marks) · Industrial Technology Timber

T6 · Laminating a curved component, plus other bending methods (4–5 marks)

Fits: 2015 Q15 (5), 2017 Q15 (5), 2025 Q14 (4). Also 2025 MC5 · 243 words · 8 chunks

T6.1 · FormerFirst, make a former (mould) to the required curve, often from layers of MDF glued together, cut on the bandsaw and smoothed. Allow a little extra curve for springback.T6.2 · StripsRip thin strips of straight-grained timber on the table saw or bandsaw, thin enough to bend around the curve without cracking. Keep them in order so the grain matches.T6.3 · Dry clampDry-clamp the strips to the former to check that they bend and fit before any glue is used.T6.4 · GlueSpread a rigid, slow-setting adhesive on the mating faces; urea-formaldehyde or epoxy are suited because they give long working time and resist creep. Then stack the strips.T6.5 · ClampClamp the stack to the former, working from the centre outwards to squeeze out air and excess glue, or use a vacuum bag over the mould. Wipe off squeeze-out and leave the glue to cure fully.T6.6 · Clean upRemove the blank, clean the edges on the jointer or with a router and template, cut to final length and shape, check the curve against the template, then sand and finish.T6.7 · Why strongerLaminated parts are strong because the grain follows the curve, and any defect is limited to one thin layer (2025 MC5).T6.8 · Steam bendAlternatives: steam bending softens solid timber in a steam box, then it is bent quickly around a form using a metal strap and clamped until dry. Kerf bending cuts a series of saw kerfs on the inside of the curve so the board can bend, then the kerfs are glued and clamped.

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