Letter 25105

Architect wants to chamfer SS countertops  

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I am trying to add a 45 degree chamfer to stainless steel countertop. I have a large job where we will use stainless steel countertops in 12 kitchens in a new modern development in Dallas, TX. I am interested in producing these tops with some more sophisticated details.

the attached photos illustrate a 45 degree chamfer + also the stainless steel bonded to an "apple ply" substrate. I am trying to replicate these details.

What I would like to produce is a 45 degree chamfer on the edge of the countertop after the top is bent + welded. Is there a tool similar to a wood router that could be used to chamfer the edges once they are bent + welded?

Is there such a thing as a metal router bit that could produce a consistent edge?

Could a jig be up with a belt sander to do this? any other ideas? ALSO. what is an adhesive that can be used to bond stainless steel to wood?

Another edge option I am considering is to bond the countertop to an "apple-ply" substrate and leave the fine laminations of the plywood exposed. to do this I would have the sheet of ss cut to size and have the entire top bonded to a 1 1/2" piece of plywood.

Benjamain D
architect - Dallas, Texas

Benjamain, My name is Bill Lewis, I have worked in industry since I was twelve. You asked about putting a chamfer on the edge of a stainless countertop. Problems you should consider are: The stresses at the bent corner are the highest in the material, this is also the thinnest area on the top, if you cut a chamfer on it and you are lucky enough to not cut through it anywhere, it will surely split over time causing a nasty razor sharp edge for anyone walking by to cut themselves in half. ( Probably not a desirable outcome for your liability insurance company.) Anyway, if you want a chamfer on the edges you could try locating someone that is capable of bending 2-45% bends on the edges when fabricating the tops.

As far as gluing goes if the surface of the SS is clean. and I mean every trace of oil or cleaners. (brake clean works well for cleaning before gluing), then any glue used for formica should work. See: "CABINET maker." the trouble with "professionals" is that they often look past the experience of the technician. "Take care of your craftsmen and they will take care of you" I know it was a little snide but allow me some entertainment hehe.

William L
consulting - Mayville, WI, US

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