Over steaming???

[Jakesnyder]

Is it possible to over steam a piece of wood? Could it do irriversable damage to it?

[DC]

I've read that over steaming can cause the inside of the bend to buckle but I've never had a problem with oversteaming. That said I never steam longer than an hour because that's when my steamer runs out of water. I have steamed 3/8" pieces for 40 min which would be about twice the 45 min for 3/4" recommendation. No problems. Most stuff you read is for tight bends for furniture. Most of the bending we do, other than sharp recurves, are fairly mild bends and I don't believe they are a problem.

[Del the cat]

I don't think you are likely to over steam timber in any reasonable practical situation... But presumably after 100 years, it will be degrading
Del

[PatM]

 It is possible.  I've done this.  The piece of wood became like a wet noodle even when dry again.

[bownarra]

Yes you can and yes.

[Del the cat]

It is possible.  I've done this.  The piece of wood became like a wet noodle even when dry again.

Interesting info, thanks... never stop learning in this game
Del

[Marc St Louis]

I've had Elm come apart at a porous ring from over-steaming when bending recurves

[Jakesnyder]

What about side ways bending something around 1.5" wide? Is it possible?

[DC]

For you guys that oversteamed it, how long did you steam it? Is this a went for lunch and forgot it kinda thing?

[bradsmith2010]

Probaly depend a lot on kind of wood?

[Pat B]

Under normal circumstances I doubt you could over steam. If you steam it only long enough to make the wood pliable you should be OK.