Zero Joint Edge
Edge banding is applied without adhesive by using compressed, heated air to activate the active layer; it melts and bonds with the substrate and fills in voids and pits on the edges and results in an encased; water and heat resistant product.
The top row shows joints produced by various methods under magnification. The Second row shows the edges after 20 minutes in a steam oven.
As can be seen the EVA glue joint is not only very visible it can not withstand heat and moisture.
The PUR joint is moisture and heat resistant but the joint is more visible than the airTec joint.
On many woodgrain type surface a PUR glue joint is a good choice but
airTec will always provide superior results
Jointless banding of edges - technology of the future
Banding edges without the use of glue
The airTec hot-air system uses a set of heating coils, which heats the air to a temperature of between 270 and 300°C. Although the airTec technology also can use classic adhesive application, it is primarily intended for the assembly of LaserEdge edges. These edges are composed of two layers - decorative and functional, which are melted directly onto the desired material. The edges are, therefore, banded without the use of glue. The result is a perfectly banded edge without visibly-glued joints, which would otherwise reduce the aesthetic value of the product.
Jointless edge banding can also withstand moisture
Furniture with airTec edges excels not only in its eye-catching appearance and hygienic safety, but also in its properties. These include, for example, good resistance to high temperatures and humidity, which is much higher than conventional EVA adhesives.
The airTec system is ecological and hygienic
Another advantage of the airTec system from Homag is its environmental-friendliness. Due to the fact that the edges can be banded without the use of glue, there are no chemicals released into the atmosphere or spreading of unpleasant odors. Of course, there is no other gradual release of pollutants into the air.
Another great advantage of this technology is that is also hygienic. The jointless edge banding system is certified for anti-bacterial properties.