Thicknesser saw

Types of thicknesser saws

A thicknesser saw can be used to trim wood planks to a uniform thickness. The thicknesser is usually fed by conveyor belts for increased automation in the milling process. This machine has several cutting knives mounted on a cylindrical cutter head. Its main purpose is to remove rough surfaces and excess wood to achieve an even thickness. Some advanced models can even provide grooved or foiled surfaces on the wood.

Thicknesser saws come in two main types based on how they are powered:

• Electric thicknesser saws

  An electric wood thicknesser uses electricity to power up an electric motor that drives the cutter head. This thicknesser comes in two types: portable electric thicknessers and stationary electric thicknessers. Portable electric thicknessers saws are lighter in weight and more compact. They are also more affordable to suit the budgets of DIY enthusiasts with small-level wood projects. On the other hand, stationary electric thicknesser saws have a large footprint and are heavy duty. They provide woodworkers with more power and higher milling capacities to handle large boards with ease.

• Hand thicknessers

  A hand thicknesser saw is powered by hand cranking. This type of thicknesser saw is slowly being phased out due to lack of automation and the low efficiencies needed to meet the demands of modern woodworks. However, some woodworkers still prefer hand thicknessers because they give them greater control over how much wood is removed. Hand thicknessers are used to process thicker hardwoods like oak, which can be an expensive source of lumber.

Based on design and functionality, thicknesser saws also come in three main styles:

• Jointers

  A wood jointer thicknesser normally flattens one face of the wood and straightens one edge before the wood plank is sent to the saw mill or other processing facilities. A jointer thicknesser saw may use a single or multiple blades set parallel to the table. Jointers come in two styles: the inline jointer planer, which resembles a planer, and the stand-up jointer, which has a vertical cabinet.

• Planers

  Wood planers thicknesser saws cut wood to a specific thickness. The wood planer uses several parallel blades mounted on a large cylindrical cutter head. Unlike the jointer, which flattens a wood plank, a wood planer will smooth out to one even thickness.

• Jointers and Planers Combined

  When a wood jointer and planer are combined into a single unit, it is referred to as a jointer planer combo. The machine can be used to both straighten edges and smoothen surfaces. Jointer planer combos take up less space compared to standalone jointers and planers. They are also more affordable, making them a popular choice for industrial woodwork companies.

Specifications and maintenance of thicknesser saws

The following table shows the key specification details of a thicknesser wood saw.

• Power : This represents the power output of the thicknesser saw in watt or kilowatt form. A more significant power provides better cutting ability and efficiency.
• Voltage : This is the operating voltage of the thicknesser saw, reflecting the electricity supply required for the tool to function.
• Amperes: This represents the current draw of the thicknesser saw, which influences its power consumption and performance.
• Cutting depth: This is the maximum depth of cut the thicknesser saw can achieve. It determines how much thickness the tool can remove from the workpiece.
• Width of cut: This represents the maximum width of the workpiece that can be cut using the thicknesser saw. It determines the size of the material the machine can handle.
• Cutting speed: This refers to the speed at which the thicknesser saw cuts through the material. Higher cutting speeds improve efficiency and productivity.
• Blade type and count: The thicknesser saw blade type (e.g., carbide-tipped, high-speed steel) and the number of blades (usually two to six) affect the cut quality and surface finish of the workpiece.

Proper maintenance of the thicknesser saw is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimum performance. Here are some helpful maintenance tips:

• Always consult the manufacturer's manual and follow the specific maintenance instructions provided for the particular thicknesser saw model being used.
• Clean the saw thoroughly after each use. Remove any sawdust, debris, or resin buildup from the blades, tables, and other parts using a clean cloth and specialized cleaning products.
• Regularly inspect the blade for signs of damage, such as chips, dullness, or bending. If any issues are detected, promptly replace the blade to maintain cut quality and safety.
• Keep all moving parts of the thicknesser saw properly lubricated to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. Use high-quality lubricant as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Maintain proper blade alignment and balance to prevent vibrations that can cause damage to the tool and workpiece. Regularly check and adjust the saw blade as necessary.
• Store the thicknesser saw in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area to protect it from environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and temperature extremes that can cause damage.

Uses of thicknesser saws

Sizing and preparing rough lumber for building is the primary use of a thicknesser plank saw. This cutting board to size machine can make a house, business, or barn project more accessible. Using this machine adds value to lumber by eliminating irregularities, making boards smooth, square, and of uniform thickness. This simplifies the assembly of structures, makes joints better, and gives a more exquisite finished product. It can help builders create better-fitting and smoother windows, doors, and cabinetry.

Another way this machine can assist a project is by allowing for better gluing surfaces to be available. Joints in laminated surfaces can be better if all the laminates are square and smooth. Thicknessers allow for better machining of these laminates. Even with joinery techniques like the finger joint, having square and straight components will make construction easier.

Thicknessers help with the fitting of items better throughout a structure. Items like hardwood floors, cabinetry, and joinery will fit better, be more beautiful, and more miniature will be required when closing up joints. Joinery, such as mortise and tenon, will be more accessible to implement if the components are of the same thickness.

The finish of all parts of cabinetry and joinery will require the use of a thicknessing plank saw to ensure all parts are the same size. When doing an elaborate build, finishing parts, whether inside a cabinet or visible when closed, could take an extensive amount of time if other pieces need to be glued up, clamped, and sanded to achieve their final size. This machine can quickly pave the way to make the final steps quicker and more accessible. The object's final assembly will look better and take less time to assemble.

This machine can also save time by reducing the need for other hand tools. Sanding irregular surfaces and edges can take time and effort. Electric thicknessers can save time and effort by offering a more efficient and more accessible way to have smooth and flat boards. The time saved can be used to improve other parts of the construction project.

How to choose thicknesser saw

Choosing the right wood sizer requires considering a few key features. These will impact the performance, efficiency, functionality, and overall experience of using the thicknessing saw.

• Power of motor: A powerful motor will efficiently saw wood of various sizes and densities. The density and hardness of the wood will vary widely. To handle all kinds, choose an engine with sufficient horsepower. This will maintain a consistent cutting speed, even when facing resistance cut through hardwoods.
• Feed rate: Thicknesser machines have a feed rate. This is the speed at which wood is fed into the machine for cutting. A higher rate allows for more planks processed in less time, increasing productivity. However, a faster feed rate may decrease the quality of the finished product. Choosing a balance between fast processing speeds and surface finishing is essential.
• Dust collector: A planer will create a large amount of sawdust. A built-in or detachable dust collector will help reduce this mess and keep the workplace clean. Consider where the sawdust goes and the dust collection method used.
• Number of blades: Thicknessing saw blades and their arrangement will affect the quality of the surface finish. More blades usually give a smoother finish. Blade design also plays a role. Consider all blade options when choosing the thicknessing saw.
• Table size: The table dimensions refer to the surface of the machine that supports the plank while it is being cut. Larger dimensions will allow planks of bigger sizes to be processed. This will also help achieve greater stability during cutting.
• Safety features: The thicknessing saw's safety features are very important. Look for things like emergency stop buttons and safety guards over the rotating blades. Hands and fingers must be protected while working with dangerous equipment.

Thickenssaw FAQ

Q1: Should a Thicknesser jointer be taller than the bench?

A1: Yes.A jointer thicknesser saw for wood usually sits at a similar height or slightly higher than other workbenches. It is easier to handle and surfaces boards when they are at similar heights.

Q2: Should a thicknesser be airtight?

A2: Yes. An air compressor thicknesser circuit does not need to be completely air tight, but it should have enough air flow to keep dust out and avoid excess component ware.

Q3: What are the five chemical safety rules one should follow when using a wood thicknesser?

A3: Always follow manufacturer's instructions. Inspect the equipment to ensure it is working properly and not damaged. Use proper handling and be cautious when working with unknown woods.

Q4: Can one run a wood with nails through a thicknesser?

A4: No. This can damage the blades and completely ruin the wood.