Leisten Biegesystem

The most common task in historical model building is bending wood. Almost every piece of wood used has to be shaped. The basic tool consists of a 20/30-watt soldering iron onto which either the shaping and bending tip for thinner wood or the plank bender for thicker strips can be fitted as required.

The system is self-regulating. Once the working temperature has been set it is maintained, meaning that the system is designed for continuous operation (the temperature is regulated by pushing the attachments farther on or pulling them back).

The wood to be bent is soaked only briefly in cold water, depending on the type of wood for between 1 and 15 minutes, then removed and allowed to rest for a few more minutes. The wood should be thoroughly damp but under no circumstances soaking wet. Slide the wet plank into the eye of the plank bender, wait a moment for the water that has penetrated the wood cells to warm up, then press on the other end of the plank and the strip will begin to bend.
Even bending wood along its narrow edge, for example for handrails, is possible with the attachments. Experience has shown that the thickness of the strip to be bent should be at least one third of its width. The best advice for a model builder, however, is to experiment: take pieces from your scrap box, soak as many different types of wood as possible and find out what can be done. Leave some scraps in water overnight and the next day you will discover which types of wood tolerate longer soaking times.