Production Planers

The machine tool shown in Fig. 363 is for quantity production of plane surfaces. Enormous machines of this type are in use, constructed to drive and feed the best of cutting tools to their endurance limits. By the use of several tool-carrying heads tooling can be done on the top and the side surfaces simultaneously.

Fig. 363. Cincinnati Planer with Four Tools Cutting Courtesy of Cincinnati Planer Company, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Work Holding

In the case of production work, where size precludes the mounting of more than a single piece on the work table, the work usually rests on the table itself without supporting fixtures. In locating the work and holding it true to its location, a variety of bolts, straps, thrust blocks, angle irons, and struts are usually available. Where the size of the work warrants mounting more than a single piece upon the work table, work-holding fixtures, as shown in Fig. 364, are usually provided. These may also, by design, accurately locate the pieces.

Fig. 364. Production Planer Machining 28 Columns in 12 Hours, Using Gang Tool in Each of Four Tool Heads.

Lubrication

In planer work, the cutting tool is seldom lubricated.