Features and working of a planer
The planer functions through the rapid
rotational motion of the single or multiple blades present in the tool.
The movement of the blades is powered by an approximately 15 amp motor
that generates an output of around 10,000 to 18,000 revolutions per
minute (rpm). The efficiency of the planer is increased with a three
knife cutter-head that renders the workpiece an exceptionally smooth
finish, even along uneven surfaces. The tool performance varies between
around 96 and 179 cuts per inch. A two-speed gearbox gives users the
facility to change the tool speed depending on the intended task. The
approximately 20 inch base is made of cast aluminum to make the tool
rigid and stable.
The user can monitor the tool precision with
a material removal gauge and an extra-large thickness scale built-into
the tool. A lock-on button ensures uninterrupted planning for long
periods of time. For smoother cutting and a longer life, the planer
often incorporates dual-edged, tungsten carbide mini blades. Micrograin
blades sometimes offer 30 per cent longer life than other blades and
also resist breakage caused due to nail and staple strikes. Some
planers have a water feeding system to reduce heat and friction for
faster cutting. A dry cutting diamond wheel is normally incorporated to
use the planer without the flowing water.
Planers that use a single blade usually have
an electronically counterbalanced system that automatically positions
the blade at the best cutting angle, minimizing drag and increasing
operation speed. A movable, lockable Fence allows angular bevel cut to
be made with ease up to a maximum of around 45 degrees.
The planer may either be corded or cordless.
While corded planers are generally more powerful and offer consistent
performance, cordless planers are more portable and can be used in the
absence of a power source. The design of most planers is done in a
judicious manner to enable starting within the workpiece itself.
The maximum depth of cut of the planer is
approximately 1/8 inch, with a rebating depth of 15/16 inches, planning
depth of 5/64 inches, and planning width of 3-1/4 inches. A front
roller provides further control over the planning depth. While the
weight of handheld planers varied between around 5 and 8 pounds, the
heavy duty planers weigh approximately 92 pounds.
What to look for in a planer
As with any cutting tool, the planer also
tends to emit a large amount of dust during the planking process. Most
planers have a fan-powered chip ejection system, keeping the
environment clean for the user, preventing the debris from damaging the
internal components of the tool, and also minimizing the chance of any
stray chips marring the work surface. This system uses a combination of
a vacuum and an exhaust, coupled with a dust bag, to ensure more
efficient dirt clearance.
An automatic carriage lock reduces any
movement that may cause snipe without the lever being engaged prior to
and after each pass. For heavy duty applications, a planer with a rigid
base is preferable to one that is mounted on a folding table. A higher
power-to-weight ratio increases the maneuverability and the performance
of the tool. A simple blade setting system enables quick blade
changing. Most of the moving components of the planer are rendered with
ball bearings to prevent wear and tear due to friction and also to
enhance smoother performance. Generally, the tool is double insulated
for extra safety.
An edge guide prevents blade misalignment
resulting in uneven planning. A ratcheting depth knob allows the user
to set the cutting depth. A protective shield normally covers the
exposed portion of the blade when not in use. Further blade safety is
ensured with a spring-loaded park rest. To prevent sudden starts, the
planer has a lock-off release button.
Some reputed manufacturers of
planers include Bosch, Delta, Dewalt, and Makita.
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