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A power Hand Planer is a tool used to render
a smooth finish to various rough surfaces such as wood, metal, masonry,
or even concrete. While a manual hand planer is suitable for
smoothening smaller areas, the power planer is used for large scale
applications. The planer is also used for removing old paint or varnish
and to reduce the thickness of wooden planks. While being used by
professional workmen such as carpenters and masons, this tool can also
be used by lay persons. The power planer increases the productivity and
efficiency by automating and speeding up a task that would take a long
time if done by hand. Additionally, this tool also helps to conserve
the energy of the user. Other than polishing the rough end grain of
wood, this tool can also be used for tapering wood. The planer can also
be used to cut out arches or scarfs in timber. The planer is equally at
ease when creating a flat surface finish or right angular rabbet
joints.
Features and working of a power hand planer
A power hand planer usually works through the
rotational motion of around three blades placed at the bottom of the
tool. The movement of the blades is powered by an approximately 4 to 10
amp motor generating an output of around 16,000 revolutions per minute
(rpm), resulting in approximately 30,000 cuts per minute. For better
performance, generally double-edged carbide blades are used.
Resharpenable high speed blades are suitable for straight edge or
framing tasks. A lock-on button keeps the tool running continuously,
for uninterrupted performance, thus reducing user finger strain.
The depth of cut of the planer can be
adjusted with a ratcheting knob provided to elevate or lower the front
plate, controlling the amount of blade area being exposed. A removable
edge guide doubles up as a Fence which increases the tool’s accuracy. A
V-grooved base plate helps in the creating fast 45 degree edges.
Accuracy is further enhanced with a precision machined base.
A poly V-drive belt enhances belt durability.
The saw is designed in such a way that the tool can be started in the
middle of the workpiece itself. Some planers have a single-blade drum
electronically counterbalanced to angle the blade at the precise angle
to extract maximum efficiency and minimize drag.
Some planers have a dry cutting diamond wheel
that performs the planing action without a water feeding mechanism.
Gouging and non-uniform planing is avoided with a center line balance
having anterior and posterior grips. Most planers have around three
precision machined grooves on the front shoe that allows edge
chamfering in three different sizes.
What to look for in a power hand planer
Externally accessible brushes facilitate easy
servicing of the tool. A higher power-to-weight ratio increases the
efficiency of the planer. Blade installation is made easy with a
systematic blade setting system. The tool grips are ergonomically
contoured with a two-finger trigger, and some planers offer a
two-handed grip for added stability during usage. For better balance
and control, some planers incorporate a D-handle grip.
As with any cutting or planing tool, a
certain amount of dust is bound to be created. A chip ejection chute
clears the work area for the user improving the line of sight and also
preventing any shards from going under the tool and causing marring to
the surface. A kickstand or a spring-loaded park rest provides support
for the tool in between passes, preventing excessive planing of the
surface. A protective shield covers the part of the blade that is not
being used. A lock-off release button prevents the tool from starting
automatically.
‘Wood razor’ blades are generally sturdier
than the conventional carbide tipped blades and have an approximately
30 per cent longer lifespan and are resistant to breakage when coming
into contact with nails and staples. Most of the moving parts of the
planer are rendered with ball bearings to minimize wear and tear due to
friction. Often the planer is shipped with an approximately 10 foot
rubber power cord to increase the reach of the tool. The planer is
double insulated for added protection and durability.
Some reputed
manufacturers of Power Hand Planers include Bosch, Dewalt, Makita, and
Porter Cable.
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