Planer Thicknessers

About Planer Thicknessers

Planer thicknessers are versatile woodworking machines that combine two essential functions in a single unit. The planing function smooths rough-sawn timber to create a perfectly flat reference surface, whilst the thicknessing function dimensions boards to a precise, uniform thickness. This dual functionality makes them indispensable for joiners, cabinet makers, and serious woodworking enthusiasts working with solid timber. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks quality planer thicknessers from leading manufacturers including DeWalt, Makita, Draper, and Einhell, ranging from compact benchtop models to substantial floor-standing machines.

Modern planer thicknessers typically feature powerful motors ranging from 1,500W to over 2,000W, with cutting widths between 204mm and 318mm. These machines eliminate the need for separate planing and thicknessing operations, saving valuable workshop space whilst delivering professional-quality surface finishing on both hardwoods and softwoods. Whether you're dimensioning timber for bespoke joinery, preparing stock for furniture making, or reclaiming salvaged wood, a quality planer thicknesser provides the accuracy and consistency that hand tools cannot match.

Applications

Planer thicknessers are essential equipment for a wide range of woodworking professionals and applications:

• Joiners and Carpenters: Preparing timber for bespoke joinery, window frames, doors, and architectural woodwork
• Cabinet Makers: Dimensioning solid timber components for fitted and freestanding furniture
• Furniture Makers: Preparing stock for tables, chairs, and fine furniture pieces
• Shopfitters: Creating custom timber fixtures for retail and commercial interiors
• Restoration Specialists: Matching existing profiles when repairing historic woodwork
• Boat Builders: Dimensioning timber for marine joinery and structural components
• Wood Turners: Preparing blanks and square stock for turning projects
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home workshop users tackling ambitious woodworking projects

Choosing The Right Planer Thicknessers

Selecting the appropriate planer thicknesser from MyToolShed.co.uk depends on several key factors:

Cutting Capacity: Consider the maximum width and thickness of timber you'll typically work with. Compact 204mm units suit smaller projects, whilst 260mm to 318mm machines accommodate wider boards for furniture making and larger joinery work.

Motor Power: Hardwoods and deep cuts require robust motors, typically 1,800W or above for professional use. Most models available at MyToolShed.co.uk run on standard UK 240v single-phase supplies, drawing 10-13A from domestic circuits.

Build Quality: Cast iron tables provide superior flatness and stability compared to pressed steel, ensuring accurate results over years of use. Check that infeed and outfeed tables are substantial and adjustment mechanisms maintain their settings.

Portability vs Stability: Benchtop models offer flexibility for smaller workshops, whilst floor-standing machines provide better stability for heavy-duty operations. Consider whether you need to move the machine regularly or if it will remain in a fixed position.

Dust Extraction: Efficient dust collection is crucial for workshop cleanliness and health protection. Ensure the machine has adequate extraction ports (typically 100mm diameter) compatible with workshop vacuum systems rated for fine wood dust.

Safety Information

Planer thicknessers are powerful machines requiring proper safety procedures. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection during operation. Avoid loose clothing and jewellery, and never wear gloves when feeding timber as they can catch and pull hands towards the cutter. Connect to proper dust extraction to manage airborne particles – prolonged exposure to fine wood dust presents serious respiratory hazards covered under COSHH regulations.

Ensure the machine is properly earthed and the circuit can handle the electrical load. Never attempt to plane timber shorter than 300mm or below manufacturer minimums. Always use push blocks when surface planing and disconnect from the mains supply before changing blades or performing maintenance. Inspect reclaimed timber carefully for embedded metal objects that will damage blades.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a planer thicknesser and a table saw?

A table saw cuts timber to width and length but doesn't smooth surfaces or dimension thickness. A planer thicknesser creates flat, smooth surfaces and reduces timber to precise, uniform thickness. Both are complementary tools serving entirely different functions in timber preparation.

Do I need three-phase power for a planer thicknesser?

Most compact and mid-range models up to 318mm width run on standard UK 240v single-phase domestic supplies. Only industrial machines designed for continuous heavy-duty operation typically require three-phase power. Check specifications before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your workshop electrical installation.

How often do planer blades need replacing or sharpening?

This depends on usage intensity and material types. Professional workshops processing hardwoods daily may need blade attention every few weeks, whilst occasional DIY users might go months between services. Signs include burn marks on timber, rough finish quality, increased feed resistance, or visible nicks in the blade edge.