Hi, I’ve recently been in search of a reconditioned industrial jointer and have been inquiring about upgrading the machine to a spiral cutterhead. One machine shop rep’ I spoke to warned me about a potential issue with what he called “lighter duty” spiral heads. His words:
“The lighter duty spiral heads (aluminum) work okay for a few thousand board-feet…over time, the insert teeth begin to wear a dent into the aluminum body head and new inserts will not seat properly, once they are a bit worn then the new teeth will always leave a groove or a line in your figured hardwood. The aftermarket manufactures can usually quote you with a Brand and model number, size of head, and some rough measurements of clearance.
True spiral heads (for 24 inch planers) cost $1000-$4000 used, and over $5000 new, they are made by Oliver and Newman Whitney. The bodies are forged or steel and stand the test of time in production shops. Its rare to find 12 and 16 inch sizes of these true spirals.”
I plan to make furniture in a studio shop environment (not high volume production) but wondered any of you have put enough miles on a “ligther duty” spiral head to run into this issue. Look forward to your thoughts, – Tim
Replies
I would give Bryd a call and see what he thinks, I don't what he makes his heads out of but I am sure he would give you an idea of what to expect. Let us know what you find out.
Troy
Also Grizzly
I've had a Grizzly jointer with a spiral cuttehead for three years with no problems whatsoever. But I'm not a commercial maker. You might call Grizzly and see what they have to say about the issue.
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