What is an edger in woodworking?

In woodworking, an edger is a tool or machine used to create smooth, clean, and often uniform edges on wood pieces. The specific type of edger and its function can vary depending on the context, but here are the main types:

1. Handheld Edger (Router or Edge Trimmer)

Used to shape or smooth the edge of wood manually.

Often equipped with bits to round over, bevel, or create decorative profiles on the wood edge.

Commonly used in cabinetry and furniture making.

2. Edge Banding Machine (Edgebander)

Applies a thin strip of material (like PVC, wood veneer, or melamine) to cover exposed edges of plywood or MDF.

Used heavily in cabinet and furniture manufacturing to give a finished look and protect raw edges.

3. Lumber Edger (Sawmill Equipment)

Industrial machine used after the initial cutting of logs.

Trims the rough, uneven edges off boards to make them straight and uniform in width.

Essential in producing usable, dimensional lumber from rough-cut boards.

Summary:

Small-scale woodworking: An edger could mean a router or edge trimmer.

Furniture/cabinet production: Likely refers to an edgebander.

Lumber production: A lumber edger ensures straight, usable boards.