Edge and Face
Since the introduction of Titebond Aliphatic Resin wood glue in 1952, Franklin Adhesives & Polymers has been the industry leader in edge and face gluing applications. A decade later, Multibond cross-linking PVA adhesives were introduced, followed by one-part Multibond and two-component, exterior-grade Multibond products.
Our edge and face commercial adhesive products are designed for use in radio frequency machines, clamp carriers, presses and clamps. Please see our Edge & Face Gluing Guide and radio frequency edge gluing user guides for additional application and troubleshooting assistance; or contact our technical support team. To determine an appropriate product option for your application, please refer to our product selector.
Edge or face gluing of solid lumber stock can present a unique challenge for adhesives. The adhesive must be rigid enough to withstand the applied stresses found under variable service conditions. Additionally, properly prepared adhesive joints are very important to successful gluing. For best results in using our adhesives for edge and face gluing applications, please follow the below guidelines.
Spread
Generally, 200 grams per square meter of glue line is adequate. Conveyorized spreaders are commonly used in this application. The use of a wool felt sleeve on the spreader roll can aid in obtaining a desirable spread and reducing excess glue usage.
Stock preparation
The preparation of the stock to be glued is extremely important. Joints cut from rip saws should be free of saw marks. They should also be straight and square. Moulded or jointed stock should be free of knife marks. Glazed or burnished joints will prevent adhesive penetration and should be guarded against. When possible, glue joints should be prepared and glued the same day.
Moisture content
Eight to ten percent is the recommended moisture content for the gluing stock. High moisture content will dramatically increase the clamp time needed. Additionally, panel shrinkage may occur, resulting in stress cracks or end joint delamination.
Pressure
Pressure is dependent upon the species or material to be glued and joint preparation. Direct contact of the gluing surfaces is required to obtain maximum strength.
Recommended clamping pressures
Density clamping pressure example:
Low-density wood species 7 – 10 kg/cm² Pine
Medium-density species 9 – 13 kg/cm² Rubber wood
High-density species 13 – 18 kg/cm² Oak, birch
The use of a compressometer will aid in accurately measuring the amount of pressure being applied to the gluing area.
Minimum temperature
Curing temperatures should be higher than the minimum use temperature of the adhesive. This includes the temperature of the stock to be glued as well as the air and adhesive temperatures.
Clamp time
Clamp time is dependent on the adhesive used, species, moisture content, environmental factors and glue line thickness. Clamp times can vary from a half hour to several hours. Clamp times should be determined under plant conditions.
Additional information on edge and face gluing can be found in the full version of our Edge & Face Gluing Guide or by contacting our technical support team. For more information about gluing equipment, please refer to our resources link.
Edge and Face Products
Multibond Advantage 2 - Water-resistant adhesive that is ideal for finger jointing, edge gluing, radio frequency applications and hot pressing
Multibond EZ-1 – Forms a water-resistant bond at a fast setting rate, it is recommended for high frequency, hot or cold press, edge and face gluing and finger joint applications
Multibond EZ-2HV – High viscosity adhesive that develops a DIN EN 204 D3 water-resistant bond with a very fast set rate, low chalk and low minimum use temperature.
Multibond EZ-2 - Develops a DIN EN 204 D3 water-resistant bond with a very fast set rate, low chalk and low minimum use temperature.
Multibond X-016 - A highly water-resistant, two-part adhesive that is recommended for applications requiring ASTM D5572 wet use performance and DIN EN 204 D4 water resistance.
ReacTITE-EP-925 - A highly water-resistant, formaldehyde-free two part adhesive that can be utilized with cold press, hot press or radio frequency press equipment.
Titebond 50 - Fast-setting, heat-resistant adhesive, best used in interior edge and face and assembly gluing.
Titebond 50HV- High viscosity, fast-setting, heat-resistant adhesive, best used in interior edge and face and assembly gluing.
Titebond Imperial – A high performing, heat-resistant adhesive, best used in interior edge and face gluing.
Titebond Regular – With excellent bond strength, this product is ideal for edge and face gluing and general assembly of a wide variety of wood species for interior use.