Biscuit Joiner Introduction

This page is INCOMPLETE and still missing some important information before it can be used as a resource. Please use the "Discussion" feature above or talk to one of the tutors if you would like to help improve it. Thanks!

This is the content required for an introduction to our biscuit joiner - reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a tutor! It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)

First off, make sure you have read the tool's manual.

Safety

Dangers

exposed & rapidly spinning milling disk
- will keep spinning for a few seconds after the tool is turned off
flying splinters and dust
the tool might move due to the force of the milling disk
no prevention of turning on after loss & restoration of power (keine Anlaufsicherung)
the disk gets extremely hot
- can potentially set the sawdust on fire
- remains hot for a while after using

Precautions

wear personal protection but not gloves, they could get caught!
- goggles for sure, a dust mask could be necessary depending on your material
- ear defenders are also required
hook up the dust collection bag
- keep the dust collection bag clean
do not engage the tool when not in contact with the workpiece
secure the tool with your second hand or a clamp to prevent the tool from moving along the workpiece
always check whether the tool movement you are planning is possible before turning it on - adjust depth if necessary
make sure there is nobody nearby who might be surprised by a piece of shrapnel flying their way!
if the power has been lost for whatever reason, make sure the router is turned off before restoring it!

Demonstration

The tutor will show you these steps in detail:

dialing in the cutting height and biscuit size
- there are different biscuit sizes (0, 10, 20)
setting the cutting angle
aligning the tool with your workpiece
working on horizontal and vertical cuts