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- May 17, 2022
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Is the steam generator a wallpaper stripper it looks like one ?
Is the steam generator a wallpaper stripper it looks like one ?
Hi Don,I found that the steam hole out should be about the same size as the hole in. You don't really need any pressure for the little stuff we steam. As long as the temp goes to 212f(100c) you're golden. I think you've also learned the lesson that there is no point in making a fancy steam box. They are consumables if made from wood. An ugly piece of PVC or ABS is the answer.
It is the same type used for wallpaper steaming w/o the wallpaper specific tools.Is the steam generator a wallpaper stripper it looks like one ?
Very good to get from first hand a report about using this tool.Had a chance to try out my new bending iron.
This was a piece of walnut 1-1/2" wide x 2mm thick.
With regards to the bender, size matters 
I did not soak the material rather just spritzed it with water just prior to bending. Bending was a breeze and after the bend there was no need to clamp the piece in any type of form as it dried very quickly during the bending process. The water turns to steam almost as soon as it contacts the aluminum mandrel thereby drying and holding its shape.
What's really nice is, as the bending iron is clamped to the bench freeing up both hands to complete the bending process. I find that this is preferred to holding a soldering iron type bender with one hand and the piece to be bent with the other hand while heating and forming around or into some type of mold or curved surface.
I also tried bending some 1/32" aircraft ply with the same results. As soaking the wood was not required there was no delamination of the wood plies.
Anyone forming wide plywood bulwarks would find this tool is ideal.
I also formed some smaller planks 6mm x 1.5 mm with the same results. No more soaking, bending and clamping in place to dry for me.
I know the unit is pricey, but you get what you pay for. IMHO
The only downside to this unit is it takes a long time to come up to temperature (About 30 minutes to reach 300 degrees F.) due to the mass of aluminum. The upside is it doesn't cool down like some of the smaller irons do.
Oh yes, did I say to wear an insulated glove on one hand? Don't ask how I came to that conclusion.
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I saw those that are listed on Amazon however, I decided on going with the StewMac unit. It appears to be more robust and the manufacturer is here in the states and their products have a good reputation.ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO I GOT A LUTHERERS BENDING IRON LIKE BTHE STEW MAC ONE ONLY IT WAS $100.00 COMPARED TO $237.00 STILL PRACTING WITH MINE SEEMSW TO WORK OK SO FAR MORE AFTER TESTING WITH DIFFERENT WOODS AND THICKNESS GOT IT ON AMOZON. GOD BLESS STAY SAFE ALL DON