Helical machining shaft – advantages, applications, results

Jointers and thickness planers are two core machines in a woodworking shop, whether we are talking about combined machines, which offer both operations in a single unit, or standalone machines.

Production capacities differ depending on the many parameters and options that can be attached to these equipment. In this article we will address one of the most important options, namely the spindle or machining shaft.

The spindle or processing shaft can be equipped with classic straight knives (3 or 4 pieces) arranged along the shaft and fixed with jaws or removable knives arranged in a helical shape on the processing shaft. Depending on the size of the planer or straightener spindle, the number of knives can be greater or lesser.

The advantages of a helical machining shaft are found in both the economic and technical aspects, advantages that make a difference in an increasingly competitive market oriented towards quality production.

Among the advantages of this option, now within the reach of any carpenter, we mention:

• Cutting edge longevity. Thanks to the 4 cutting edges using carbide steel inserts, the service life is greatly improved compared to classic planing knives using high-speed steel. Carbide normally holds an edge at least three times stronger than high-speed steel.
• When sharpening, the knives can be turned quickly and easily using an Allen key, without the need to adjust the knives with the knife adjuster.
• Eliminates the wave effect, thanks to the helical arrangement of the knives and shear cutting, resulting in perfectly flat surfaces.
• Reduced grinding time on front joint surfaces.
• Splicing MDF or plywood. If you ever have a need to straighten man-made materials such as MDF or plywood, you can do so with confidence using a screw-shaft machine.
• Compared to classic planing shafts, the helical machining shaft produces up to 50% less noise, thus increasing the operator's machining comfort.
• If a knife becomes unusable, you will be able to change just that knife, saving both time and money.
• Easier dust collection. A minor advantage is provided by the smaller cutting edges on the ends. These “break” the material into smaller pieces, so less suction is needed to extract the waste.

Danibrum's portfolio includes both jointers and thickness planers, as well as combined jointer-planer machines or 5-operation combined machines, where you can choose to have them fitted with a helical cutterhead.

Take the Holzmann HOB 305 PRO-SMW2 combined jointer-thickness planer, a machine appreciated by many of our customers: simply by changing the jointing and planing cutterhead, the overall value of the machine has increased.

Another advantage of improving existing models in the portfolio, which have proven reliable in the market, is that of delivery time to the end customer. Delivery is made quickly, from stock, thus avoiding waiting lists and hindering production in some cases.

Conclusion

The helical cutterhead can be a profitable investment if you use your jointer-planer regularly. Surface quality, quieter operation, quick knife changes and more make it an attractive upgrade for any joiner, at an attractive price.

For professional carpenters who use this type of equipment a lot, this upgrade is more than necessary. Reduced downtime due to blade changes, less grinding time on front joint surfaces and less sharpening costs all contribute to real savings and a competitive advantage due to better productivity.