The video “Thickness Planer vs Drum Sander – Which One Do You Need and WHY?” is by Newton Makes. In this video, Billy dives deep into the functionalities of two essential woodworking tools: the thickness planer and the drum sander. Both tools serve the purpose of flattening wood, but they each have unique strengths that make them suitable for different tasks.
What is a Thickness Planer?
A thickness planer is designed to flatten wood to the desired thickness for various projects. Billy highlights his trusty DeWalt planer, which he’s used for over a decade. This tool is equipped with standard features such as a height adjustment knob, cutting knives (either straight or helical), and a gauge to indicate the thickness. With a fixed capacity of about 12 inches, it’s a reliable option for many woodworking tasks.
Key Features of a Thickness Planer
- Height Adjustment: Easily controlled with a knob or lever.
- Cutting Knives: Options include straight knives or a helical head.
- Thickness Gauge: Displays the thickness of the wood being planed.
- Fixed Capacity: Limits the width of the wood that can be planed.
What is a Drum Sander?
The drum sander, as Billy explains, is another indispensable tool in his workshop. He uses the Jet 1632 drum sander, which he has owned for about four years. This tool is designed for fine-tuning the thickness of wood and is particularly useful for delicate projects.
Key Features of a Drum Sander
- Thickness Adjustment: Similar to the planer, it has a knob to adjust thickness.
- Sandpaper Options: Can accommodate various types of sandpaper.
- Open End Design: Allows sanding of workpieces that are larger than the machine’s capacity.
When to Use Each Tool
Billy provides insight into when to opt for the planer versus the drum sander. The planer is ideal for removing a significant amount of material quickly, making it a staple in most woodworking shops. However, it can be aggressive and may cause tear-out, especially on figured wood or thinner boards.
On the other hand, the drum sander excels in situations requiring finesse. It allows for precise adjustments and is less likely to cause damage to delicate pieces. Billy emphasizes that while the drum sander cannot remove large amounts of material quickly, it is perfect for fine-tuning and achieving the exact thickness needed.
Limitations of Each Tool
Despite their strengths, both tools have limitations. The thickness planer, while efficient, is loud and can be aggressive. It is not always suitable for delicate work, as it may cause chips and tear-outs, particularly on intricate grain patterns.
Conversely, the drum sander is slower and not as effective for removing large amounts of material at once. It can also generate a lot of fine dust, which can clog dust collectors quickly. Billy humorously suggests getting help from children or grandchildren for cleaning up the mess!
Combining the Tools for Optimal Results
Billy often uses both tools for the same project. He starts with the thickness planer to remove the bulk of the material and then switches to the drum sander for the final fine-tuning. This combination allows for efficiency while achieving the desired finish.
Conclusion
In summary, both the thickness planer and drum sander play crucial roles in woodworking. The choice between the two largely depends on the specific requirements of the project at hand. Whether one needs to remove material quickly or achieve a delicate finish, understanding the strengths and limitations of each tool is key to successful woodworking.