What is a planer? Features of the tool, device and purpose

A planer is an essential tool found in every carpentry workshop, used for smoothing and shaping wooden components. By exerting a specific force and moving in a straight line, it can create a smooth and polished surface on the wood. This informative article provides detailed information on the operation and various types of planers.

The device of the tool

To comprehend the concept of a planer, it is not a difficult task. A planer is a tool that consists of a block of metal (occasionally wood) at its core. The following components are attached to it:

1. Handles (located at the front and back) – these are utilized for ease of use as they allow for a secure grip on the tool.
2. The sole, which is the lower part of the planer, is perfectly flat and smooth, enabling smooth gliding on the surface being treated.
3. There is a slit, which is a special opening where the blade of the knife is inserted. It also allows for the removal of wood chips.
4. The knife, which is the primary functional element, slices the surface layer of wood on the workpieces. It is consistently made of metal.
5. The screw, together with the clamp, serves as a means to secure the blade and guide the element for the evacuation of wood chips. In more recent models, the blade is also fastened using a dovetail mechanism.

The main types and purpose

When it comes to what can be achieved with a planer, it can be said that it is a device used for woodworking and planing. Its main function is to glide over a surface and make it smooth or adjust the desired roughness. Additionally, it is utilized for reducing the size of workpieces or forming various notches, such as "quarter" or "tongue".

Presently, there is a wide range of planer models available, each with its own classification. For instance, there are manual and electric planers designed for different surfaces, including the floor. Manual planers are operated by hand, while electric ones rely on an electric motor for power.

The primary classification of planers is based on their intended purpose, that is, the type of planing they are used for:

• Planar planers for creating a flat, smooth surface;
• Shaped planers for producing relief and grooves of various shapes.

For shaped planing

You can describe the planer as a tool used for smoothing surfaces. To add shape, such as rounded edges, certain models can be helpful:

1. The Zenzubel planer is equipped with a three-edged blade. It is used for planing perpendicular planes, rebates, and cleaning corners. The design allows for customization of different cutter angles.
2. The Kantenhobel planer is mainly used for processing edges and chamfers. This model features a double blade and has a trapezoid shape.
3. The Shpuntubel is a unique planer device that features two pads that are connected together using screws. By adjusting the screws, you can easily change the position of the cutter, allowing you to create evenly-shaped grooves. This type of planer is perfect for achieving longitudinal grooves.
4. The Federgubel is another type of planer that is ideal for finishing shaping. This device is similar to a bobbin and also features two pads that are connected in a movable manner. However, the cutting element in this case consists of two parallel blades, which allow for the creation of longitudinal spikes. This type of planer is specifically designed for this purpose.
5. Calevka is a handy tool that allows you to create a multilevel base with ease. This tool is perfect for finishing cornices, making door jambs, baseboards, or baguettes.
6. The Faltzgebel is designed for cleaning and shaping specific parts, such as corners. It can also be used to create precise strips along the edges without the need for prior marking. This type of wood planer is primarily used for detailed finishing work.
7. A staple is a tool that is utilized for working with both convex and concave workpieces. Its shape is semicircular, and its blades are specially designed. This tool features a semicircular sole and blades that have a unique shape. Consequently, this versatile tool can also be employed for rounding the ends, with the ability to adjust the desired diameter beforehand.

The primary function of the planer tool is to create a smooth surface on wooden parts, known as planing. This category includes the following types of planers:

1. The single planer is used for roughing wooden workpieces, resulting in long, uniform-sized chips. However, further processing is required to address any flaws or chips left on the surface.
2. Carpenters also utilize the double planer for roughing work. In this case, the cutter is straight and the tool is equipped with a chipbreaker, resulting in a relatively smooth surface.
3. The Schergebel is a handheld planer that is designed to create the desired shape for the workpiece. It has a similar appearance to a regular planer, but it is unique in that it has a blade with rounded edges. These rounded edges are positioned at a 45-degree angle to the straight sole, allowing for both with-the-grain and cross-grain work with the tool.
4. The grinder is a compact planer that is specifically designed for clean part processing. It is equipped with a cutter and chipbreaker, ensuring that the surface is clean and smooth.
5. Fuganok – a different tool for achieving a clean finish. It is utilized during the final stage of a project. Upon examining the device, it becomes apparent what its purpose as a type of planer is. It features an elongated soleplate and two blades, resulting in a surface that is nearly flawlessly smooth.
6. Cinubel – a tool utilized for achieving a polished finish. The design of this particular wooden planer is as follows: it possesses a grooved blade that operates at a steep angle to the surface (80°). Consequently, the processed surface ends up being rough. This proves advantageous when applying varnish, as it increases the contact area.

Now, it is apparent what kind of planer is being referred to in the article’s photo. It is a commonly used tool found in any workshop. It enables the attainment of a smooth, even, or intricate surface. Homeowners typically utilize handheld devices, while professionals use electric ones. These tools greatly expedite the completion of a substantial amount of work in a short period of time.