Using a Thickness Planer

A thickness planer is a tool used for smoothing rough lumber or reducing the thickness of a board. With a planer every board on a project can be a perfect match. A planer will not straighten a bowed board, it would have to be run through a jointer to get one side straight first. The usual procedure is to joint the face and edge of a board, run it through a planer to get the correct thickness, then rip it to width on a table saw. Run the board through the planer face down only as many times as it takes to make a smooth surface on the top, then alternate removing material from one side of the board then the other, this will produce a more stable product.

To Operate the Planer

1. Make sure the planer is fastened securely in place.

2. Lower the cutting head until it just touches the surface of the board.

3. Remove the board and lower the head another 1/16".

4. Feed the board into the machine, it will automatically travel through.

5. Follow with gradually deeper passes, about 1/16" until desired thickness is obtained.

Thickness planers create a lot of wood chips, it is a good idea to hook them up to a dust collector.

More info

  

Delta 12" Portable

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Delta 13" 2-Speed

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Accessories

3-Row Ball Bearing Stand
3-Row Ball Bearing Stand

Makita Blade Sharpener
Makita Blade Sharpener

Roller Support with Universal Clamp
Roller Support with Universal Clamp

Check For Recalls

  • Keep guards in place and in working order. The guards are there to protect you, use them.
  • Remove adjusting keys and wrenches. Form a habit of checking to see that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from the machine before turning it on.
  • Don't use power tools in damp or wet locations, or expose them to rain. Keep work area well lighted.
  • Keep children away. All visitors should be kept a safe distance from the work area.
  • Make the shop kidproof with padlocks, master swatches, or by removing starter keys.
  • Don't force the machine. It will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
  • If you must, use a proper extension cord. Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current your machine will draw.
  • Wear proper apparel. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties, rings, bracelets, or other jewelry which may get caught in moving parts. Nonslip footwear is recommended. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
  • Always use safety glasses. Also use face or dust masks if the cutting operation is dusty. Everyday eyeglasses only have impact resistant lenses; they are not safety glasses.
  • Don't over-reach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
  • Always disconnect the machine from the power source before servicing.
  • Feed work into the cutterhead against the direction of rotation of the cutterhead only
  • Never leave machine running unattended, turn power off.
  • Never plane a board less than 8" in length or 1/2" thick.