6 Parts of the Jointer (6/15) -- Woodworking Machinery

6 Parts of the Jointer Infeed table The infeed table supports the workpiece as it is passes over the cutterhead. Both the infeed and outfeed tables are made of cast iron, and should be dead flat and parallel to each other. They move in relation to the cutterhead, which is fixed to the base. The position of the infeed table relative to the cutterhead determines the depth of cut. The lower the table below the cutterhead, the greater the depth of cut. Infeed table height adjustment The infeed table height adjustment is made via a handwheel or a lever, depending on how the tables are designed to move. The table should be locked after the height is set, usually with a ‘T’ handle. Depth of cut indicator Most jointers have a depth of cut indicator, consisting of a gauge and pointer. They are not very accurate, and need to be calibrated every time straight knives are changed. Use these as a rough estimate only. If the depth of cut is critical, run a piece of scrap wood about 50 mm into the cutterhead, then carefully pull it back out of the cut. The gap between the bed and the workpiece is the exact depth of cut. Alternately, lock out the machine and place a straight edge on the outfeed table. The difference in height between the infeed and outfeed table is the depth of cut. Outfeed table The outfeed table supports the just-machined surface as it clears the cutterhead. Its position relative to the cutterhead must be set perfectly for the jointer to function properly. Outfeed table height adjustment The outfeed table is adjusted in the same manner as the infeed table. The outfeed table should only be adjusted when the knives or cutters are being changed, or if the jointer is not cutting properly. Ensure the outfeed table is securely locked to the base once it has been adjusted. Dovetail ways or pivoting arms The tables are fixed to the base by means of dovetail ways or pivoting arms. On a machine with dovetail ways, the base casting has a sloped surface with a precision machined dovetail shaped casting. The table is likewise machined with the matching profile. The two halves slide together in direct contact, and should be set up to have very little play between the base casing and tables. This allows the tables to move, but keeps things in alignment. Many European jointers uses a system of pivoting, parallel arms to connect the base to the tables. In both cases, the alignment between the tables and the base must be exact for the jointer to perform perfectly. Refer to the machine’s manual if adjustment is required to bring the tables and base into alignment. Fence The jointer fence is used to keep the workpiece in position as it is fed through the machine. There are two main adjustments on the fence, lock and tilt. Different makes of jointers use varying fence systems, they all have the same basic adjustments. Fence lock The fence may be moved laterally across the table and locked in place at any point along the length of the cutterhead. When narrow stock i