Hey Todd Burch and planer Musings/Questions

[Dennis McDonaugh]

A couple weeks ago we had a discussion about my planer tearing out white oak where the grain switches direction. I finally got around to honing the planer blades and it didn't seem to make any difference.

I'm beginning to wonder if I got a bad sharpening job on the blades or, maybe the blades need replacing. How can you tell if your blades are worn out?

[Todd Burch]

"Worn out" in planer blades usually only means too short to grind any more. However, an improper bevel will wreak havoc.

If you have an angle guage, check the bevel. The bevel should be around 30°. However, it could range anywhere from 20° to 40°.

With a 40° angle, the edge would be super tough, (read into that a longer time between sharpenings), however the finish would not be as good.

With a 20° angle, you would get an excellent finish on woods like balsa, pine, and with figured woods, but after a few boards, you would have lost your edge.

So, 30° is a good compromise.
Todd

[Dennis McDonaugh]

Todd, I'll check the bevel when I get home.

I've experienced tear out before, but not to this extent.