Specific Precautions Using Planer Thicknessers - Axminster AW106PT2 User Manual

Specific Precautions Using Planer Thicknessers...
Most machines currently, are well interlocked to ensure that the machine must be in the
correct configuration to perform one task or the other. Make yourself familiar with these
configurations and do not try to use the machine in a half and half state; or rig the interlocks
to enable you to do so.
These machines are designed for cutting timber only. They will, but are not designed to, cut
timber derivatives or composites. Glue lines in plywood, block board etc, will 'notch' blades
as sure as eggs is eggs. The bonding agent in chipboard is likewise detrimental to the
health of your planer irons. It is best to leave them alone. If you have to machine
composites, work out the costs of tungsten, against HSS (plus the sharpening costs), and
proceed accordingly. On larger machines it is common practice to leave a portion of the
blade (usually the offside 30 mm) to be used on 'aggressive' materials.
Overhand planing
Make sure during overhand planing operations, that the fence is set to the required angle, is
securely fastened and locked in position. Ensure the planer block guarding is in position
and secured.
Disengage the autofeed for the thicknesser.
Ensure both tables are correctly seated and locked down.
Ensure the dust extraction hood is in place and is not blocked.
Fit dust extraction.
Check the sharpness of planer irons, check for 'nicks' and 'notches', if there are damaged
sections on the blades, try to plane in the 'clear' areas.Especially when planing material
down to 'thin' dimensions, maintain pressure on the 'front' of the material i.e., that portion of
the stuff that has passed over the block, but use a push stick or a pusher shoe to clear the
end of the stuff over the block.
Thicknessing
When thicknessing, remove the fence. Lower the thicknessing table slightly.
Unlock and swing both tables 'up and out of the way',taking care not to foul the overhand
guard/arm assembly, which will probably swing free.
Turn the dust extraction hood up and over the block.
Connect the dust extraction. Ensure the hose will not foul any stuff being passed through
the machine.
Check the height of the thicknessing table.
Engage the autofeed mechanism.
Periodically, clean any excess build up of resin from the thicknessing table, and apply any
proprietary brand of lubricating agent.
NOTE, Consideration should be given to the type of finish you will be applying to
the stuff when you select your cleaning/lubrication agent. Some compounds won't
mix. i.e. PTFE and Acrylic.
W
A X M I N S T E R
W H I T E
05