Glass edging is a key step in fabrication, shaping the final look and safety of the finished product. Choosing the right type of edger, especially when buying used, can make all the difference. In this post, we’re breaking down vertical and horizontal edging machines to help you decide which used glass edger best fits your workflow and production needs.
What Are Glass Edging Machines Used For?
Edging machines are used to finish the edges of glass panels by grinding and polishing them. This not only creates a clean look but also improves safety by removing sharp edges. Edging is completed for nearly every application that includes exposed glass edges, such as tabletops, mirrors, glass shelving and more.
Horizontal Edging Machines
Horizontal edgers lay glass flat and feed it through the machine along a conveyor system. These machines can create flat, arris (chamfered) and pencil edges with consistent results. They’re best suited for:
- High-volume, repetitive flat glass jobs
- Large panel sizes
- Operations where longer cycle times are manageable
The pros of horizontal edging machines include a broader range of edging capabilities and greater precision for large-scale production. The cons are that they require more floor space and are heavier and harder to reposition if your floor layout changes.
Vertical Edging Machines
Vertical edgers stand glass panels upright and feed them vertically through the edging system. They’re often used for flat and arris edges, with some models offering pencil capabilities. Vertical edging machines are best suited for:
- Smaller shops with tight floorplans
- Jobs requiring faster setup or quick changeovers
- Inline automation with other vertical equipment
The pros include being easier to integrate into automated lines with a compact, space-saving footprint. Cons include having fewer edge profile options and potentially being unable to handle oversized panels as efficiently.
Key Considerations When Buying a Used Glass Edger
When looking at used glass edging machines for sale, keep the following in mind:
- Machine condition: Check for wear on belts, bearings and motors
- Maintenance history: Regular maintenance is a strong indicator of long-term reliability
- Parts availability: Make sure parts for the model are still accessible
- After-sale support: A reliable distributor that offers technical support and guidance
Also consider how each type of edger fits your workflow, shop space and production volume. Are you handling large glass daily? A horizontal machine might make more sense. Working in a tighter space with a variety of jobs? A vertical edger could be the better fit.
Picking the Right Used Glass Edger for Your Business
Both vertical and horizontal edging machines have their strengths. The right used glass edger for your business depends on your workflow, shop layout and the kind of work you take on most. To find a used glass edging machine for sale that’s the perfect fit for your line, view our rotating inventory to see what’s in stock.