Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/408997
32 / NOVEMBER.DECEMBER.2014 RINKMAGAZINE.COM by DON MOFFATT, CIRM E dging is an ice maintenance procedure that should be completed every day or every 12 ice resurfaces. However, there are still areas that might need some extra attention. The ice resurfacer gate has a tendency to build up ice quicker than other areas due to the process of coming off the ice surface. Some extra water and slush is left in this area, and if not completely scraped up, it will build up the ice quickly. If your corners have been constructed with a tight radius (less than 26'), then ice may build up quicker than normal in this area as well. To keep these areas smooth and level with the rest of your ice surface, some extra work might need to be completed. Too many operators make the mistake of just double edging (going over the same area twice) or walking backwards with the edger. You should never walk backwards trying to cut with the edger. This is a very unsafe practice and should not be done at anytime. Feather edging is the preferred technique to shave down these areas quickly and efficiently. This means the edger is moved out one edger width and a second complete cut is performed. New edgers are designed so that no "bar" is required to keep the edger away from boards. By identifying a "high ice area" during your pre-inspection and having marked out the trouble area, an operator may choose to start edging away from the boards. For example: If in a corner, the edger may be set to cut 16"–18" away from the boards, then a cut is made along the trouble area. The blade is cranked up and the operator returns to the original start point. Do not walk backwards with the edger blades moving. Moving slightly in on the fresh cut, a second cut is made. Because the edger is cutting on a slight angle toward the left (closest to the boards) of the first cut, the edger cuts a little bit deeper each time you move in or toward the boards. Each time this is repeated, the cut gets deeper, so be sure you don't cut too heavy or too deep on the first cut. Repeat this process until you are cutting right against the boards. At this point, you will need to complete the hand edging to remove any excess ice that is on the kick plate. By using the feather edging technique, you will remove a large amount of ice safely and smoothly by reducing the ice depth in this area. As with any edging procedure, to properly finish the edge, the ice resurfacer must be used to smooth out the ice in the entire area. Do the first lap with the ice resurfacer using the board brush against the boards. Lift the board brush and move out one-half of the conditioner width. Repeat moving out another half conditioner width, then, for the last pass, move the ice resurfacer back against the boards using the board brush. This will level and smooth out the ice surface in this area. Once this task is completed, it is recommended to do a complete ice depth check and document your findings in your facility's ice logbook. J Livin' on the Edge Keep your ice surface level and smooth around the boards HOW To Feather Edging PHOTOS: RINK