Biscuit Joiner Introduction
From CoMakingSpace Wiki
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
- setting the cutting angle
- aligning the tool with your workpiece
- working on horizontal and vertical cuts