Advantages: A combination woodworking machine is to woodworkers as a Swiss army knife is to outdoorsmen. Instead of being weighted down with as many machines as you have woodworking needs, combination machines allow you to economize on woodworking space and the overall price of your equipment. As one might expect, the cost of combo machines is largely based on their number of functions, with those that offer the most costing the most. A quality combo machine that offers fewer features can cost as little as $5,000, whereas one that offers the highest range of features can cost roughly $30,000.
Popular brands of CNC machining centers include: Biesse, Busellato, Holz-Her, Homag, Masterwood, Morbidelli, SCMI, Unitech, and Weeke.
CNC equipment receives instructions from a design program that coordinates the movements of each axis to produce an intricately detailed product. These machines were introduced to improve production speed and accuracy, but are now being applied by smaller facilities and offer more to customers. Their intended use makes them less affordable to some businesses; however, smaller unit and secondhand equipment options have put them in reach of any sized woodworking company.
Cost is the largest limitation of these woodworking machines, but is easily alleviated by seeking out used machinery. Maintenance and care are essential for avoiding high repair costs after purchasing. While automation produces perfect pieces, these devices are still mechanical equipment, meaning they can malfunction. Buying secondhand and providing the appropriate care ensures any business can receive the many benefits this equipment has to offer.
A combination machine will generally have 3 or 4 main functions, depending on the model and make you are using. These might include:
Tips for Using your random orbital sander: Guide your movements along the grain, and never stop in the one spot or you risk leaving a mark.
Safety
I went to their website, watched the videos, looked at the projects and read the frequently asked questions. After mulling it over a few days I found out there was a local place that sold them and they could give me a demo. This was huge since I could put my hands on the product. The minute I got there, my mind began to spin with ideas and options for the machine. If you have not looked at one, you need to check it out. This machine is perfect for what I want to do and what I think I can do with my business. It was a little more expensive than I wanted to spend but it has endless possibilities. I tried to find on used on eBay, and they are very hard to find. I consider that a good sign. Finding them used is almost impossible as well, another good sign. When things like this start to add up it helped me with my decision making process.
Woodworking possibilities were widened broadly with the introduction of Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machinery. The machines incorporate computer aided design programs to automate what once took an inordinate amount of time to accomplish. While many crafters still remain true to the traditional methods of creating fine wood products, the advancements of woodworking machines have greatly increased the design possibilities of both smaller workshops and large manufacturing plants.
When buying a random orbital sander you need dust collection for a start. Also make sure the unit is well balanced and comfortable. There’s nothing worse than sanding with a tool that feels uncomfortable.
