Using a power planer

Summary: Learn how to use a power plane, how to plane a piece of wood and using a power plane safely.

A power planer is a more sophisticated and effective version of the original plane. The original is still very widely used, but requires more effort in its use compared to the powered version. Planing can be an arduous task, particularly if the wood is hard or the timber is in a difficult position to reach. Hiring or even purchasing a powered planer can speed up the job as well as reducing physical strain.

How to use a power plane

  • There are various sizes of plane to choose from, but the average DIY job will require one of the smaller models. A power planer with a minimum motor of 400W is recommended.
  • Prior to planing the timber you must inspect and remove all nails or other metal embedded in the wood. A power planers blade is designed to last a long time, however damage will be caused to your machine if allowed to run over metal fixings.
  • Your planer will have a depth gauge which allows you to adjust the depth of the blade which will correspond with the depth of the cuts made into the timbers surface. If there is a lot of wood to plane through, then set the blade at a wider angle, and conversely, set the blade so it is narrow if you are only planing a minimal amount.
  • Before you switch on the power planer, rest it on the surface so the front of the plane where the blade is located sits above the wood. Switch on the machine and depress the trigger so the blade is activated. Then, once the planer has reached full momentum, lower it onto the surface of the wood carefully, holding with both hands and slide it across the timber evenly.
  • Many power planers are fitted with a bag for collecting the wood dust, however some may not be. It is advisable to have a dust bag fitted otherwise you should wear a mask to protect you from inhaling dust particles.

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