The 111-356 jointer is a versatile and essential tool for woodworkers and carpenters, offering precision and efficiency in smoothing, flattening, and squaring wooden surfaces. As a critical machine in any workshop, the 111-356 jointer helps professionals achieve the perfect joint, ensuring that all wooden pieces come together seamlessly.
In this detailed guide, we will explore the features, specifications, uses, and maintenance of the 111-356 jointer, helping you understand why this tool should be part of your woodworking arsenal.
Understanding the 111-356 Jointer
The 111-356 jointer is designed for precision wood surfacing, primarily used to create a flat edge on a board that can then be attached to another board to form strong, reliable joints. This machine ensures that the edges and faces of your wood are smooth, flat, and at accurate angles, which is crucial for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal in woodworking projects.
Key Features of the 111-356 Jointer
1. High Precision Cutting
The 111-356 jointer is known for its high precision cutting capabilities. With razor-sharp blades and a powerful motor, this jointer can handle even the toughest hardwoods. The cutting depth adjustments allow you to control how much material is removed from the wood, ensuring consistent and accurate cuts each time.
2. Wide Cutterhead Capacity
Equipped with a wide cutterhead, the 111-356 jointer can accommodate a variety of board sizes, making it ideal for both small and large woodworking projects. Whether you’re working with narrow stock or wider boards, this jointer provides the versatility needed to handle diverse tasks in a woodworking shop.
3. Smooth Fence Adjustments
One of the standout features of the 111-356 jointer is its adjustable fence, which allows for easy and smooth angle adjustments. The fence can be tilted to 45 degrees, making it perfect for creating chamfers and bevels, while the precision adjustments ensure that your cuts are always square and aligned.
4. Durable Construction
Built with heavy-duty cast iron components, the 111-356 jointer is designed to last. Its sturdy construction ensures stability during operation, reducing vibration and providing a smooth, consistent performance. This durability makes it an excellent long-term investment for any woodworking enthusiast or professional.
Technical Specifications of the 111-356 Jointer
Here’s a closer look at the technical details that make the 111-356 jointer a highly reliable and efficient tool:
- Motor Power: 2 HP
- Cutting Width: 8 inches
- Cutterhead Speed: 5000 RPM
- Fence Tilt: 90 degrees to 45 degrees
- Cutterhead Type: Helical with carbide inserts
- Weight: 300 lbs
- Maximum Cutting Depth: 1/8 inch
- Table Size: 72 inches long by 12 inches wide
These specifications showcase the 111-356 jointer’s capacity to handle both large-scale and fine detail work, ensuring smooth and accurate cuts.
Uses of the 111-356 Jointer
The 111-356 jointer is an indispensable tool for anyone who works with wood, from hobbyists to professionals. Its main function is to prepare wood for joining, but it offers versatility that extends beyond just joint preparation.
1. Flattening Boards
One of the primary uses of the 111-356 jointer is to flatten one side of a board. This process ensures that the wood is smooth and straight, making it ready for further processing on a table saw or planer. Flattening is essential for achieving an even surface and maintaining consistency in your project.
2. Squaring Edges
Once the board is flattened, the next step is to square the edges. The 111-356 jointer excels in creating perfectly squared edges that fit together without gaps. This step is crucial when joining two or more pieces of wood to ensure that they align properly.
3. Beveling and Chamfering
With its adjustable fence, the 111-356 jointer makes it easy to create beveled edges or chamfers. These techniques are often used for decorative purposes or to soften the sharp edges of a wooden piece. The precision adjustments on the jointer’s fence make it simple to set the desired angle for consistent results.
4. Edge Jointing for Glue-Ups
When preparing boards for glue-ups, it’s important to ensure that the edges are perfectly aligned to form a tight, seamless joint. The 111-356 jointer allows you to create straight, true edges, which are essential for a strong bond between the boards.
Maintenance and Care
To keep the 111-356 jointer performing at its best, regular maintenance is key. A well-maintained jointer not only extends its lifespan but also ensures that your projects maintain a high level of quality and precision.
1. Cleaning the Cutterhead and Blades
The cutterhead and blades can accumulate dust and resin over time, which can affect the machine’s performance. Regularly cleaning these components is essential. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any buildup, and make sure the blades are kept sharp for clean, precise cuts.
2. Lubricating Moving Parts
Ensure that the moving parts, such as the fence adjustment mechanism and infeed/outfeed tables, are well-lubricated to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Check for wear on parts like the bearings and replace them as necessary.
3. Blade Replacement
The 111-356 jointer features helical carbide blades, which offer extended longevity compared to traditional straight blades. However, after extended use, these blades will need to be replaced or rotated. Regularly check the condition of your blades and perform replacements to maintain optimal cutting performance.
4. Aligning the Fence and Tables
Periodically check the alignment of the fence and tables to ensure that they remain square. Misaligned components can lead to inaccurate cuts and affect the overall quality of your work. Use a machinist’s square to verify that the fence is at the correct angle, and adjust it as needed.
Why Choose the 111-356 Jointer?
The 111-356 jointer stands out for its precision, versatility, and durability, making it a top choice for woodworkers who demand quality results. Here’s why the 111-356 jointer is an excellent addition to any workshop:
- Precision Cutting: With its sharp blades and adjustable fence, the 111-356 jointer offers unmatched precision for squaring edges, flattening boards, and creating bevels.
- Robust Construction: Its heavy-duty cast iron design ensures stability and longevity, making it ideal for daily use in demanding environments.
- Versatility: Whether you’re working on small projects or large pieces of furniture, the 111-356 jointer can handle a wide range of tasks.
- Ease of Use: The jointer’s intuitive controls and smooth adjustments make it easy for woodworkers of all experience levels to use efficiently.
Conclusion
The 111-356 jointer is a powerful and reliable tool that can greatly improve the quality of your woodworking projects. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, this jointer offers the precision, durability, and versatility needed to tackle a wide range of tasks. By maintaining this machine properly, you can ensure that it continues to deliver excellent results for years to come.
