The Best Accessories for Your Double Sided Planer

The Best Accessories for Your Double Sided Planer

Are you in the market for the best accessories for your double sided planer? Look no further! Investing in the right accessories can significantly enhance the performance and versatility of your planer, allowing you to tackle a wider range of projects with ease. In this article, we will explore five essential accessories that every double sided planer owner should consider adding to their arsenal. From spiral cutterheads to digital readouts, we've got you covered. So let's dive in and discover the best accessories for your double sided planer!

Spiral Cutterheads

Spiral cutterheads are a popular accessory for double sided planers, and for good reason. These innovative cutterheads feature multiple small inserts that are arranged in a spiral pattern, allowing for a smoother and quieter cutting action compared to traditional straight knife cutterheads. In addition, the design of spiral cutterheads results in a superior finish on the wood surface, reducing the need for additional sanding or finishing work. This makes them an ideal choice for woodworkers who prioritize efficiency and precision in their projects.

However, it's important to note that installing a spiral cutterhead on your double sided planer may require some additional setup and adjustment. While the initial investment and installation process may seem daunting, the long-term benefits of using a spiral cutterhead are well worth it. With the ability to produce smoother cuts and reduce tear-out, a spiral cutterhead is a valuable accessory that can take your planer's performance to the next level.

Digital Readouts

When precision is paramount, a digital readout is an invaluable accessory for your double sided planer. Digital readouts provide accurate and real-time measurements of your stock, allowing you to make precise adjustments to the thickness and depth of cut with ease. This level of precision is particularly important for woodworkers who work with expensive or specialty woods, as it helps minimize material waste and ensures consistent results across multiple pieces.

In addition to accuracy, digital readouts also offer convenience and time-saving benefits. By eliminating the need to manually measure and check stock dimensions, you can streamline your workflow and reduce the risk of human error. Furthermore, many modern digital readouts come with features such as memory settings and preset measurements, making it easier to switch between different stock dimensions and setups without having to recalibrate the planer each time.

Feed Rollers and Infeed/Outfeed Tables

Another essential accessory for your double sided planer is a set of high-quality feed rollers and infeed/outfeed tables. These components work together to ensure a smooth and consistent feeding process, reducing the risk of snipe and producing an even surface finish across the entire length of your stock. While some double sided planers come with standard feed rollers and tables, upgrading to aftermarket options can significantly improve the planer's performance and user experience.

When choosing feed rollers, look for options that offer a strong grip and even pressure distribution, especially when working with rough or irregular stock. Similarly, infeed and outfeed tables should be flat, level, and properly aligned with the cutterhead, providing adequate support for the stock as it passes through the planer. By investing in high-quality feed rollers and tables, you can minimize the risk of stock movement or deviation during cutting, resulting in smoother and more precise finished surfaces.

Digital Thickness Gauges

For woodworkers who frequently work with varying stock thicknesses, a digital thickness gauge is a must-have accessory for a double sided planer. These devices provide accurate and reliable measurements of the stock's thickness, allowing you to set and adjust the planer's cutting depth with confidence. Whether you're working with thin veneers or thick hardwood boards, a digital thickness gauge ensures that you achieve the desired thickness consistently across all your pieces.

In addition to their measurement capabilities, some digital thickness gauges also come with advanced features such as automatic stock thickness detection and calibration, further simplifying the setup process and improving the planer's overall efficiency. With a digital thickness gauge at your disposal, you can eliminate guesswork and achieve precise results with minimal effort, enhancing the quality and consistency of your woodworking projects.

Dust Collection Systems

Last but certainly not least, a dust collection system is an essential accessory for any woodworking shop, especially when using a double sided planer. Efficient dust collection not only improves the air quality in your workspace but also prolongs the life of your planer and other tools by reducing the buildup of dust and debris. Dust collection systems come in a variety of configurations, including shop vacuums, cyclone separators, and central dust collection units, providing options to suit different shop sizes and budgets.

When selecting a dust collection system for your double sided planer, consider factors such as airflow capacity, filtration efficiency, and ease of maintenance. An effective dust collection system should be able to capture fine dust particles generated during planing, preventing them from circulating in the air and settling on your work surfaces and machinery. By keeping your workshop clean and free of airborne dust, you can create a safer and more comfortable environment for woodworking while extending the lifespan of your equipment.

In conclusion, the best accessories for your double sided planer can make a world of difference in terms of performance, precision, and convenience. Whether you're looking to enhance the cutting action with a spiral cutterhead, improve accuracy with a digital readout, or streamline your workflow with feed rollers and tables, investing in the right accessories can elevate your woodworking capabilities to new heights. By carefully selecting and integrating these accessories into your setup, you can maximize the potential of your double sided planer and achieve outstanding results in your woodworking projects.