Ask the Staff
Question:
I would like an 8" jointer, but lack 220V power. If 13" planers can be made with 110V motors, why
not an 8" jointer?
Thank you.
Jeff Engel
Answer:
Jeff,
Bench top planers are usually outfitted with a universal style motor. This motor has brushes
(versus induction style motors that do not). Universal style motors are common on hand and portable
power tools. They cost less than induction style motors to make and this helps keep the overall
cost of the portable planers down. Induction motors have much bigger windings and are more powerful
than a universal motor.
While theoretically a jointer could be made to be powered by a universal motor, (for jointing
edges), it most certainly would be underpowered in trying to flatten wide boards (a good reason to
get an 8" jointer is so you can flatten your stock before planing to get perfectly flat and
parallel stock to build with). In addition, since an 8" jointer with lots of cast iron (or granite)
is going to cost a fair bit more than a bench top portable planer, manufacturers don't try to save
money by using a lighter style of motor on a jointer. They use the robust induction style motor.
Induction motors up to about 1-1/2HP can often be dual voltage and run on 110 as well as 220.
However, most 8" wide jointers use a 2HP motor that will draw more amps than 110 volts can
provide.
You may find that you can add a 220V service to your shop/garage without too much hassle. If you
have a standard circuit breaker panel, you should have the space available in the panel to add a
220V service for your shop. Of course where the panel is located in relation to your shop is what
will dictate the amount of time it would take to run the wire.
You could read up on home wiring on the internet. You could at least save some money running the
wire yourself (in a manner that meets code) and then have a qualified electrician connect the wire at
the panel and wire in the receptacle.
Regards,
Ed Scent
Highland Woodworking
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