Earlex Steam Generator for Wood Bending Guide
By Infinity Cutting Tools | Premium Woodworking Tools ... | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: Product Reviews
Learn how to use the Earlex Steam Generator for bending wood. This practical guide covers setup, steaming, and bending steps to help you create curved furniture pieces.
Quick answer
The Earlex Steam Generator makes it possible to bend hardwood at home without a large shop setup. Follow the steps below to steam and bend wood safely and effectively.
Why choose the Earlex Steam Generator
This compact unit brings professional wood bending capability to a home workshop. It is designed specifically for wood bending projects, not general steaming. The electric operation means you can use it indoors without worrying about open flames or gas lines.
One trade-off: the steam chamber is not included. You will need to build or buy a steam box that fits your workpiece. The generator produces steam that you pipe into your own enclosure. This gives you flexibility in project size but requires a small upfront build.
Safety first
Steam can cause serious burns. Always wear heat-resistant gloves and eye protection when handling the generator, steam hose, and hot wood. Keep the unit on a stable, heat-proof surface and never leave it unattended while operating.
How to use the Earlex Steam Generator for wood bending
- Prepare your steam box: Build or purchase a steam box that is slightly longer than your workpiece. The box must have a small vent hole at the bottom to allow air to escape and prevent pressure buildup. Place the workpiece inside on a rack or spacers so steam can circulate around it. A common mistake is sealing the box too tightly—always include a vent to avoid pressure issues.
- Connect the generator: Fill the Earlex Steam Generator with clean water up to the fill line. Attach the steam hose to the generator outlet and run the other end into the steam box. Ensure the hose is routed so that condensed water drains back toward the generator, not into the box. Check that the hose is not kinked and that the generator is placed lower than the box to prevent water pooling in the hose.
- Steam the wood: Plug in the generator and turn it on. Steam will begin flowing within a few minutes. Steam the wood for approximately one hour per inch of thickness. For example, a 1-inch thick board needs about 60 minutes of steaming. Under-steaming is the most common mistake—the wood will crack or not bend evenly if not heated long enough.
- Bend the wood: Wearing heat-resistant gloves, quickly remove the hot wood from the steam box and place it into your bending form or jig. Clamp it in place immediately. The wood remains pliable for only a few minutes, so work efficiently. Have your jig and clamps ready before you start steaming. Every second counts once the wood is out of the box.
- Let it dry and set: Leave the wood clamped in the form for at least 24 hours to allow it to cool and dry. After removing it from the form, the wood may spring back slightly—account for this by over-bending a few degrees in your jig. Springback is normal; expect 2–5 degrees of movement depending on wood species and thickness.
Product details
- Earlex Steam Generator For Wood Bending: The Earlex Steam Generator is a compact, electric unit designed for wood bending projects, allowing you to create curved hardwood furniture. It brings professional-grade steam bending capability to a home workshop without requiring a large permanent setup.
Earlex Steam Generator For Wood Bending
