WOODSHOP ®

NEWS
TM
Shaping the Successful Shop
www.woodshopnews.com February 2018

Built
to last
Baltimore shop
owner Tom Scheve
ponders the next
opportunity

CNC providers
partner for change

The nuts & bolts

of tax reform

Sander market
is full of surprises

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 60

Tools & Techniques

10 Next Wave’s CNC Shark
gets a major redesign.
16 Kerfkore adds face veneer
option to Flexboard.
18 CutterShare is a rental
source for Rangate
shaper cutters.
20 Powermatic adds heft,
features to 3520 lathe.
22 Latest Alphacam release has
productivity improvements.
24 SANDING SURPRISES:
Hand-held sanding tool
32 manufacturers are dancing
with technology, offering
Columns power options, vibration
dampening features
30 PRO SHOP: and more.
Tax reform.
By Mark E. Battersby Departments
6 Taking Stock
32 FINISHING:
Fixing fish eye. 60 New Products
By Bob Flexner 66 At the Galleries
68 Calendar
34 THE CUTTING EDGE:
69 Classified
Electrical troubleshooting.
By R.W. Lee 72 Out of the Woodwork

Visit us online at www.woodshopnews.com

BLOGS
Over the
Workbench
Talkin’ shop with
former editor A.J. Hamler
This Business
about Woodworking
Share an opinion with
David DeCristoforo but don’t
expect to be right
n Contact Customer Service
www.woodshopnews.com/subscribe
n Tools & Machinery
www.woodshopnews.com/
tools-machines
n Contact the Staff
www.woodshopnews.com/contact-us
n Advertising Information
www.woodshopnews.com/advertise
n 2018 Online Resource Guide
http://resourceguide.woodshopnews.com

TAKING STOCK
with DAVID GETTS
Reinventing yourself:
Conforming without
sacrificing individuality
I
’ve always been a rebel. When my
grandfather told me I’d never be suc-
cessful with long hair, I grew it longer.
When the church told me to dig deep
and give more, I gave less. I think I just never
liked being told what to do. It’s probably the
single biggest reason I became self-employed.
There’s nothing wrong with being a non-
conformist, but you do have to be careful how
and what you are rebelling against. Being a
selective rebel will ruffle the feathers of many
around you, but it can certainly help you find
the success you deserve for the hard work
poured into your craft.
We typically attribute rebellion as a youth-
ful indiscretion. Just examine your own life.
There’s not one of us who doesn’t regret rebel-
lious decisions and behavior from our past.
When you’re young, you don’t have the ex-
perience or knowledge on how the system
works, which often leads to poor decision-
making. However, just because someone reb-
els does not mean it’s because they’re without
understanding. You can’t tell the rebel how
to perform. To his way of thinking, that’s like
being a marionette performing at the will of
the puppet master.
A defining moment
The word rebellion has a fairly harsh defi-
nition, which makes us associate it with bad
behavior: The action or process of resisting
authority or convention. The perception is
negative because the authority that is being re-
sisted wants to have unconditional conformity
Working with tools and wood is inherently dangerous. We try to give our readers tips that will enhance their understanding of woodwork-
ing. But our best advice is to make safety your first priority. Always read your owner’s manuals, work with properly maintained equipment
and use safety devices such as blade guards, push sticks and eye protection. Don’t do things you’re not sure you can do safely, including
the techniques described in this publication or in others. Seek proper training if you have questions about woodworking techniques or the
functions of power machinery.
6 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM
WOODSHOP
®
Shaping the Successful ShopTM
NEWS
FEBRUARY 2018 VOL. XXXII, NO. 3
EDITOR TOD RIGGIO
ART DIRECTOR BRIANA SMITH
STAFF WRITER JENNIFER HICKS
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
BOB FLEXNER, JOHN ENGLISH, GREG WILLIAMS
WEB ADMINISTRATOR MARY LOU COOKE
SALES & MARKETING
PUBLISHER
RORY BEGLIN
860-767-3200 EXT. 242; rory@woodshopnews.com
CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE ADVERTISING
860-767-3200 EXT. 242; FAX: 860-767-1048
marketplace@woodshopnews.com
from the rebel. If the authority or conventional
wisdom that is being rebelled against is sound
GROUP PUBLISHER, GENERAL MANAGER GARY DE SANCTIS
and good (we must always ask ourselves by VP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR BILL SISSON
GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR DAVID POLLARD
whose definition), then rebellion is bad. If that VP, MARKETING AND EVENTS JULIE JARVIE
same authority is bad, then the rebellion is VP DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT ERIC DALLIN
DIGITAL DIRECTOR IAN BOWEN
both good and lauded for its behavior. PRODUCTION MANAGER SUNITA PATEL
For instance, I have an employee that al- SENIOR PRODUCTION COORDINATOR CHRIS CIRILLI
PRODUCTION COORDINATORS AMY PINTO, JENNIFER WILLIAMS
ways presses me. Although his intention is for TRAFFIC COORDINATOR SARA CARPENTER
GROUP CIRCULATION DIRECTOR DANA RAVEN
the good of the company, we often butt heads CIRCULATION, FULFILLMENT MANAGER CERISSE CARPENTER
I don’t advocate blindly going
against the wisdom of those
who have trodden before us,
PRESIDENT & CEO ANDREW W. CLURMAN
but I do challenge you to make SVP, TREASURER & CFO MICHAEL HENRY
CHIEF INNOVATION OFFICER JONATHAN DORN
VP AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT TOM MASTERSON
sure it fits who you are before VP, CONTROLLER JOSEPH COHEN
VP, RESEARCH KRISTY KAUS
VP, IT NELSON SAENZ
implementation. Success, HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR JOANN THOMAS
AIM BOARD CHAIR EFREM ZIMBALIST III
however it is defined, is only
worth as much as the effort and
HEADQUARTERS:
10 Bokum Road, Essex, CT 06426
drive that you put into it. (860) 767-3200 • Fax (860) 767-0642
Editorial E-mail: editorial@woodshopnews.com
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Website: www.woodshopnews.com
Advertising Billing Questions: (661) 965-9925
because of his nature to rebel (fortunately
I’m the same way, so it’s easier to under-
SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES:
stand that his behavior is benign). Although For questions, problems, or changes to your Woodshop News subscription,
he doesn’t have near the experience that lies CALL: 800-243-9177, Mon. - Fri. 7:00 am to 12:00 pm Midnight EST.
Sat. - Sun. - 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST.
under my belt, he is still not shy about sug- WRITE: Woodshop News, PO Box 433212, Palm Coast, FL 32143-3212
Canada Post Return Address undeliverable to:
continued on Page 8 APC-PLI, P.O. Box 503, RPO West Beaver Creek,
Richmond Hill, ON L4B 4R6.
Canada Post Publication Mail Agreement No 40624074.
Woodshop News, (ISSN 0894-5403, U.S.P.S. 000-966),
Vol. XXXII, No. 3, is published monthly by Cruz Bay Publishing, Inc., an Active Interest Media
company. The known office of publication is: 10 Bokum Road, Essex, CT 06426. $21.95 for
one year; $35.95 for two years (Canadian subscribers add $12 per year for postage; U.S.
funds, foreign subscribers add $14 per year for postage; U.S. funds). Periodicals postage
paid at Essex, CT, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to
WOODSHOP NEWS, PO Box 433212, Palm Coast, FL 32143-3212. Printed in the U.S.A.
FEBRUARY 2018
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TAKING STOCK
From Page 6
gesting different ways of doing things. As the classic old curmud-
geon, my first response is to often shut down his idea (because after
all, he doesn’t have the experience that I possess). However, I’ve
learned that the opposite is often true. Because he is in the beginning
of his career and has not yet been immersed in the work (or brain-
washed by conventional trade wisdom), his perspective is fresh and
quite often better than what the “mean” has led me to do for years.
As we get older the tendency is to get into a groove (a nice way of
saying rut) that helps us to minimize conflict and disruption. It’s not
all bad. After all, the very reason we tend towards this behavior is
because experience is our mentor that is constantly leading us to do
things easier and with fewer problems. However, the downside is
that without friction the blade gets dull. You need to be constantly
challenged in order to stay on top of your game.
Look at how quickly technology is changing the way we do things.
Although we’re in a dinosaur business and the actual art of wood-
working principles remains the same, the technique and business
practice is radically changing. Most of you would probably laugh at
yourself if you still practiced your craft the way you did 15 years ago.
Change is good, staying open to new ideas is good, and rebellion is
good.
Without a clue
At 24, I developed a wild hair that forever changed the course of
my life. Running a small business in Colorado that wasn’t doing well
led me to believe a change of scenery was necessary. I paved the path
for my young wife and I to sell our house, pack up the shop and start
over in Tucson, Arizona.
Why Tucson? I really don’t know. All I did know is that I was tired
of the cold and figured if I was going to mix things up, a radical move
to Mars would be a good way to jumpstart a new beginning.
Never having been to the desert and not knowing a single soul,
we arrived in a 24’ truck loaded with tools and personal belongings.
It was at that moment I started to wonder if I had made a mistake.
Determined not to fail, I pressed on. Perhaps there could have even
been an easier way to achieve my goals, but there is one undeniable
certainty that resulted in my initial decision to go against accepted
convention and the advice of my elders. My success or failure could
not be attributed to anyone else.
I don’t advocate blindly going against the wisdom of those who
have trodden before us, but I do challenge you to make sure it fits
who you are before implementation. Success, however it is defined, is
only worth as much as the effort and drive that you put into it.
In order to embrace new technology, new hires or a changing mar-
ket, you must decide how they fit into your style of doing things.
Remain open to change. Like my rebel employee boldly voicing his
opinion, you may be pleasantly surprised by the new opportunities to
further your craft.
They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but that logic only
applies when you’re ready to cash in your chips. Know who you are
and stick to your convictions. You are the only one who can ultimate-
ly define success, not outside influences. Therefore, use convention
when it suits your goals, and be a rebel to maintain your drive.
David Getts is a certified kitchen designer and owner of David Getts De-
signer Builder Inc. in Seattle.
NEWS DESK
Support builds for
skilled labor initiative
By Jennifer Hicks

T
he Generation Next Campaign, an effort to encourage young
people to join the skilled trades, took center stage at the fifth
annual Design & Construction Week, held Jan. 9-11 in Or-
lando.
There were several events to support the initiative, including appear-
ances from the crew on “This Old House.”
“Raising awareness of the building trades as a rewarding career path
and mentoring a new generation of tradespeople has been an extremely
gratifying experience this year,” master carpenter Norm Abram said
during the opening ceremonies. “I’m looking forward to continuing
our effort to reinvigorate interest in our industry among young people
and closing the skilled jobs gap.”
The National Kitchen & Bath Association and National Association of
Home Builders are sponsors of the campaign.
The NKBA is committing $10,000 in scholarship dollars to the effort,
while also dedicating communications throughout 2018 through its
skilled labor initiative aimed at changing traditional perceptions about
vocational careers. Kevin O’Connor, host of “This Old House”, and Suzie Williford, NKBA’s
For more information, visit www.skilledlaborfund.org. vice president of industry relations, promoting Generation Next.

AWI continues woodwork

standards development
By Jennifer Hicks

T
he Architectural Woodwork Insti-
tute, a nonprofit trade association
representing nearly 3,000 members
consisting of architectural wood-
workers and other industry professionals, is
well into the process of creating a new suite of
standards for architectural woodwork.
The creation of these standards, which is
expected to continue for the next three years,
will define and address each aspect of archi-
tectural woodwork.
While the Architectural Woodwork Stan-
dards (AWS), Edition 2, 2014 remains AWI’s
current and recognized woodwork standard,
the next generation of AWI Standards will
begin to be published in 2018 and ready for
use by design professionals and specifiers in
planning upcoming projects.
Interim specification language recommend-
ed by AWI is as follows: “All work in this sec-
tion shall comply with AWI’s published stan-
dards, latest edition, for grades of architectural
woodwork indicated for construction, finishes,
installation, and other requirements.”
As the standards are being developed with
ease of accessibility throughout a variety of
mobile and digital platforms in mind, glossary
terms and illustrations included in the stan-
dards will be available through links on elec-
tronic tablets, smartphones and computers.
AWI welcomes the input of design profes-
sionals and specifiers to participate in Subject
Expert Review Teams (SERT) and Canvass
Teams for each section being written through
its ANSI-approved (American National Stan-
dards Institute) development process.
Other significant changes standards users
can look forward to in the future include a
simplified numeric designation system for cit-
ing standards, as well as the addition of new
performance duty levels which will aid speci-
fiers in choosing the correct cabinet type for its
intended use. The latter will be defined in the
new casework standards that are currently in
development. Future building owners can be
confident they have chosen case goods for the
correct value and performance required.
While changing the woodwork industry,
AWI will continue to provide technical assis-
tance for the users of the current AWS, Second
Edition.
For more, visit www.awinet.org.

10 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

 Challengers Award

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WOOD MARKETS
Customers are calling
for knots, checks and splits
By Jennifer Hicks

R
ustic-grade woods used to be
deemed crude and worthless, and
quickly made their way to the scrap
pile. Today, these woods are re-
vered more as the hidden gems of the lumber-
yard. No matter what the species, if it has lots
of character, it’s in high demand.
Lumber suppliers interviewed confirm there
is tremendous design appeal with these piec-
es. One is Bruce Stevens of Highland Hard-
woods in Brentwood, N.H. who says custom-
ers like using rustic to add a soft weathered
look in residential settings.
“The two main woods we have in rustic are
white oak and hickory, and some of it goes
to cabinetry but most of it goes into flooring.
They call it country grade and character rustic
grade. Those are all words that are made up.
They’re not part of any NHLA lumber grading Wormy chestnut
standards. They have more defects, that’s re-
ally what it’s all about,” says Stevens. made of boards from old barns. We do it in Minneapolis specializes in reclaimed woods
Raymond Hochstetler of Appalachian red and white oak, and what our customers from urban trees, felled by disease or storm
Woods in Stuarts Draft, Va., specializes in rus- really love about it is the heavy rustic charac- damage, for example.
tic woods. ter like lots of old nail holes, some saw marks “I think there’s a huge movement for de-
“We do primarily reclaimed wood, which from where it was sawn on a circle sawmill. signers doing more of an earthy type feel to
obviously has lots of rustic character to it: nail They like the patina, the dark coloring that homes and offices,” says Siewert.
holes, saw marks, and things that show the comes with age and things like that. The other “Natural edge lumber with a rustic look has
previous use of it,” says Hochstetler. thing that has a lot of character that’s also become very popular compared to the straight
“Our number one selling product in both unique is old American chestnut, or wormy edge tables. I think people want to be in an
flooring and in providing lumber is what we chestnut. We have a lot of that.” environment in their workplace or their home
call a barn board oak. It’s self-explanatory, Cindy Siewert of Wood from the Hood in that feels more connected to the earth.”

12 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

 CABINET VISION
BY THE NUMBERS

17,007
(AND COUNTING)
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TOOLS
& TECHNIQUES
Next Wave’s CNC Shark
more than two times larger than on the origi-
nal, and larger NEMA 23 stepper motors. It
has been reinforced for use with a 2-1/4-hp
router or the new water-cooled spindle from

gets a major redesign Next Wave Automation, both sold separately.

The Shark II has a 16” x 36” table and XYZ
travel of 13” x 25” x 7”. A new electronics
By Jennifer Hicks
package expands the capabilities of the CNC

N
ext Wave Automation has un-
veiled the Shark II, a redesign of
the company’s small-format CNC
router. The Shark II includes most
of the features from the original but at a lower
price point and in a smaller package.
Tim Owens, the company’s founder and
CEO, says the Shark II is about half the size of
the original. It incorporates the latest technol-
ogy and offers additional machining capabili-
ties for wood and metals.
“The new CNC Shark II is an industrial
powerhouse with a small footprint so that
hobbyists and small shops can have a full
range of functionality without having to create
the space or the budget for machines costing
thousands of dollars more,” says Owens.
The Shark II has 30 mm bars, which are
Shark and allows attachments like laser,
fourth axis, and water-cooled spindle control.
Other improvements include an interlocking
aluminum table with rigid channels, accord-
ing to the company.
The Shark II sells for about $3,000 with one
3/8” V-groove bit, two hold-down clamps,
and VCarve Desktop software.
For more, visit www.nextwaveautomation.com.

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without bending or reaching. planes, and CNC routers. them for easy unloading. added or removed.

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14 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

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 Design and Manufacturing
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Flexboard features a kerfed particleboard core.

Kerfkore adds
Simple
face veneer option
Powerful
Affordable to Flexboard
By Jennifer Hicks

K
erfkore Co., a
manufacturer of
lightweight bend-
able panels, has
started offering a veneer face
option on its Flexboard panel
products.
Flexboard is a bendable
form construction product,
consisting of kerfed particle-
board core and a .080”-thick
hardboard face, according to
the company.
Product manager Dave Quackenbush says the company invested
in a hot press to offer Flexboard with veneer facing, based on cus-
tomer demand.
“We’ve had Flexboard for a while and just started adding the veneer
FREE Technical facing in whatever species is specified before they go to the end-user,”
Support! he says.
A veneer face is also available on Kerfkore’s Flexgreen panels made
NO Keys or from Forest Stewardship Council-certified Eucalyptus fiber hardboard
Dongles! that contains no added formaldehyde (NAF).
“Flexgreen is really just an adaptation of the Flexboard but it offers
somebody who has a sustainable or LEED project the option of getting
NO Yearly
the product all FSC or all NAF,” says Quackenbush.
Maintenance Fees!
Flexboard and Flexgreen with veneer facing can be bent to a 16” to
20” radius, depending on grain direction. Customers may provide Ker-
fkore with veneer for matching purposes.
The All-In-One Software Solution! For more, visit www.kerfkore.com.

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TOOLS & TECHNIQUES

CutterShare: Rental source

for Rangate shaper cutters
By Jennifer Hicks

P
roduct-sharing is a widespread and
growing trend across all industries in
the current economy, allowing con-
sumers to use and return items, mak-
ing a financial investment much lower than
the actual purchase price.
CutterShare Inc. is following suit. The new
business entity, launched in December 2017,
offers shops the chance to rent shaper cutters
for up to three months for a fraction of the
purchase price.
The shaper cutters are engineered by tool-
ing manufacturer Rangate, the parent com-
pany to CutterShare. There are hundreds of dustry where people understand the value of for up to three months and send them back
cutters in stock in ready-to-ship boxes, ac- high performance engineered tools and some- when they’re done, and someone else gets to
cording to the company. times their budget doesn’t allow for them to use that tool.”
CutterShare founder Greg Godbout, also use those tools in projects because they might There are three pricing tiers, which start at
principal of Rangate, said he and his team use them once but rarely ever again. So the $95 per month. Offerings can be secured on-
have been developing the concept for the past level of investment doesn’t match the return line through www.cuttershare.com, where visi-
two years, focusing on making the cutters they’re going to get,” says Godbout. tors can decide what tools to borrow, interact
available for small- to medium-sized shops. “We solved that problem by making it easy with other members and share photos of their
“There’s a dilemma in the woodworking in- for people to get shaper cutter tools from us work.
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TOOLS & TECHNIQUES
JUST RE-LAUNCHED
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IT’S FAST & EASY.
6+2312:
The MultiTasker
Another innovation from W. Moore Profiles, LTD.
The MultiTasker line of tooling is
designed for dual purposes. For
small production runs on a shaper
the MultiTasker can be fitted with
precision ground HSS knives for a
low cost to complete the project.
For larger runs, the MultiTasker
can be fitted with carbide inserts
for longer tool life and steel backer
for support.
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ZZZZPRRUHSURILOHVFRP
20 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018
Powermatic adds heft,
features to 3520 lathe
By Jennifer Hicks
T
he new Powermatic 3520C wood
lathe, model 1353001, has the design
characteristics of its predecessor,
the 3520B. But at 726 lbs., it is much
heavier and packed with innovative features,
according to the company.
“It’s about 96 pounds heavier which is going
to result in a much more stable turning ex-
perience no matter how big of a log or blank
you’re turning on there,” says product man-
ager Michael D’Onofrio, explaining that the
headstock, tailstock and legs are constructed
entirely of heavy-duty cast iron for a stable,
vibration-free work surface.
“This model is also completely adjustable
and customizable. It comes with riser blocks
built into it where you can increase or lower
its height. There’s also a magnetic, movable
control box that you can move and position
next to where you’re working, to stop the
lathe or adjust the speed, or operate it in for-
ward and reverse.”
The 3520C is powered by 2-hp, one-phase,
220-volt motor with variable speed ranges of
15 to 1,200 rpm on the ‘low’ setting and RPM
on low and 40 to 3,200 rpm on high. “There’s
also a digital spindle speed and indexing read-
out on the control box for more convenience,”
adds D’Onofrio.
The lathe offers a 36” working distance be-
tween centers and 20” swing over the bed.
“This allows complex, multi-axis turnings
and provides maximum capacity for spindle
and bowl turning,” according to a company
statement.
“A precision-ground bed-way ensures
smooth sliding of the tailstock and tool rest.
An upgraded banjo incorporates a non-
marring, pinch-style clamp for solid tool
rest placement.”
Other features include a self-locating, er-
gonomic spindle lock for one-hand operation
and an anti-rotation tailstock key.
The Powermatic 3520C lathe sells for about
$4,500. An optional 20” bed extension, model
1353002, increases the lathe’s capacity to 56”
between centers and sells for $500.
For more, visit www.powermatic.com.
TOOLS & TECHNIQUES

Latest Alphacam release

has productivity improvements
By Jennifer Hicks

V
ero Software’s recent release of Alphacam R1
design software includes significant automa-
tion and nesting updates to handle a wide
range of architectural millwork and casework
applications, according to the company.
Product manager Hector Henry says one of the
standard advantages of Alphacam software is that it’s
compatible with any type of CNC machine that has an
open format.
“We have unique productivity tools that make us a

Alphacam’s latest release includes a Tolerance

Collision Check feature.

leading class product in our environment

and we also have the ability to control any
type of CNC. With any company that has
mixed requirements for production, we
have a key advantage. We only ask custom-
ers to learn one interface and we can gener-
ate a control code for multiple machines,”
says Henry.
Automation Manager, the software’s pri-
mary functionality feature, has been updated
to enhance the management of parts that
should be manufactured in groups for better
efficiency, according to Henry.
“We added the ability for the end-user to
process assembly products. This is accom-
plished by having what’s called a parent-
child relationship between the assembly file
and the subcomponents of that file,” she says
using software industry terms.
“So, for example, if you’re making doors
or windows, cabinets, or anything that has
several pieces getting cuts out of the ma-
chine, now you can conveniently have a
‘parent’ product that you modify the pa-
rameters on, and that trickles down to all
the ‘children’, as opposed to having to
think about and deal with the individual
parameters of the individual being. It’s a
productivity enhancement.”
Drawings and fittings can now be added
to specified datum points. When process-
ing a job, the fittings will automatically be
inserted at a pre-defined position, and can
also be used in parametric drawings. Al-
phacam R1 contains a small sample library
of fitting types.
There is also a new option in Automa-
tion Manager to avoid machine table colli-
sions, with the ability to check Z levels on
toolpaths.
For more, visit www.verosoftware.com.

22 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

TOOLS & TECHNIQUES

Ekamesh, available from Uneeda Enterprises,

features a net pattern; (opposite page)
SurfPrep’s sanding kit.

in 2015, and while the company says it has

“brought the fun” back into sanding, there
might be a little room for disagreement there.
Sanding can be one of the most mind-numb-
ing tasks in the woodshop, even with these
entertaining tools. The company visited liter-
ally thousands of shops and discovered ways
in which woodworkers would benefit from
a larger variety of foam abrasives and acces-
sories. The resulting products are designed

to minimize physical effort and discomfort,

which maximizes efficiency in production
lines. Each kit comes with a SurfPrep pad
sander, a 12’ air hose, variety packs of both
foam and film, and some specialized accesso-
ries. Pneumatic and electric kits are available
in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Fein Power Tools offers the MSF 636-1, a 6”
ROS with a particularly wide eccentric travel.

Paint booth roots

A lot of woodshop finishes and finishing
tools are born in the automotive field, and
sanders are part of that history.
AirVantage Tools (airvantagetools.com) is a
brand owned by Prime Supply Inc. While
best known for pneumatic automotive sand-
ers, the company has also developed several
electric models. Among them is the Advanced
ROS line, featuring a very low profile and a
grip that looks a little different than the stan-
dard woodworking tools. They have adjust-

Leitz releases updated

reference manual
The Leitz Lexicon Edition 7 industry
resource manual, used by thousands of
manufacturers to maximize the efficiency,
productivity, and longevity of their tools,
is now available in both print and PDF
versions.
The edition features a new layout
and user-friendly structure with each
product category in a compact format.
It includes detailed tool specifica-
tions; application parameters; tool ma-
chine type and setting information;
technical notes and best practices, and
more.
For more, visit www.leitztooling.com.

26 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

 TOOLS & TECHNIQUES

able speed settings of 4,000, 7,000 and 10,000 rpm, and are available in
120- and 230-volt models. The company also has a 3” x 4” pad sander.
AirVantage tools are designed to collect fines very efficiently and to be
used all day long.
Dynabrade USA (dynabrade.com) has updated several hand sanders
over the past few months, including the X51 ROS. A new rotor de-
sign enhances power with less friction, and among the latest comfort
updates is a recessed throttle lever that eliminates pinch and pressure
points on an operator’s palm.
Among the more specialized hand sanders for woodworkers are
several two-handed pneumatic edge tools from Quickwood (quickwood.
com). For example, the company’s F15 sander has an 8” flexible head

NAP Gladu acquires

Eide Saw & Tool Service
NAP Gladu, a Techniks Industries company, announces the ac-
quisition of Eide Saw & Tool Service Inc. of Minneapolis.
“We are delighted with this acquisition and see this as a per-
fect fit as both Eide Saw and NAP Gladu share a commitment to
delivering the highest performing solutions and world-class cus-
tomer service,” Vern Cameron, CEO of Techniks Industries, said
in a statement.
“This acquisition helps fulfill the strategy to build our platform
with industry-leading brands and leverage the incredible depth
of our collective industry knowledge to drive operational effi-
ciencies and performance for our customers.”
Headquartered in Jasper, Ind., NAP Gladu is a provider and
manufacturer of specialized carbide and PCD cutting tools for
the woodworking, metal, and composite industries.
For more, visit www.techniksindustries.com.

FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 27

TOOLS & TECHNIQUES

and a pair of bullhorn handles for tackling

larger surfaces. It uses brush abrasives to
reach into door profiles and conform to ir-
regular shapes. Many of Quickwood’s cus-
tomers use this tool as an edge sander for
doors in a stack.
Mirka (mirka.com), a Finnish company with
U.S. headquarters in Twinsburg, Ohio, intro-
duced two cordless (10.8 volt) spot repair sand-
ers, models AOS-B 130NV and 150NV, in 2017.

CMA sets conference

education program
The Cabinet Makers Association has
finalized the education presentations for
its 20th anniversary conference, sched-
uled for Mar. 1-2, 2018, in Denver.
Presentations will include “The Art
of Pricing Profitably” with Sean Be-
netin; “Transitioning to CNC” with
Chris Dehmer, and a panel discussion
on “Practical Solutions for Finding Em-
ployees”.
For more, visit www.cabinetmakers.org/
Quickwood’s F15 sander. denver.

YOU’VE NEVER
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While the word “innovative” is undoubtedly over-
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can save you up to 50% on energy. It’s also quieter
G700 GYRO AIR
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28 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018


Supplies
In the endless search for the perfect fin-
ish, woodworkers are always looking to up-
grade their discs and belts. One of the hottest
new candidates in that arena is Ekamesh
from Uneeda Enterprises (sandpaper.com).
The product offers a unique net pattern that
is designed to deliver a smoother finish and
a dust-free environment.
Klingspor (klingspor.com) is a German man-
ufacturer with offices in Hickory, N.C. The
company has been making abrasives since
1893, and has ISO 9001:2008 certification.
Gator (gatorfinishing.com) is a brand that
caters to both professional and DIY shops.
The company started as Ali Industries in an
Ohio garage in 1961 and produces sandpaper
sheets, fiber discs, belts, orbital sheets, abra-
sive rolls, ROS discs, sponges and pads, wet
and dry sandpaper, and even floor abrasives.
2Sand.com is a Maryland-based coated abra-
sive specialist that carries sanding discs, sand-
ing belts and sandpaper sheets. Among its
newest offerings are Rhynogrip 6”, six-hole,
hook-and-loop discs from the Portugese man-
ufacturer Indasa.
Abrasive Resource (abrasiveresource.com)
supplies a selection of synthetic non-woven
mesh that is impregnated with abrasive grain
used by woodworkers for blending, polishing
and decorative finishes.
Micro-Mesh (micro-surface.com) has been
around a long time and is a favorite hand
sanding solution among luthiers and restor-
ers. It can replace steel wool, rottenstone or
Insurer offers coverage
against cyber risks
Pennsylvania Lumbermen’s Mutual
Insurance Co., an insurer dedicated to
wood-related businesses, introduces its
Cyber Suite of coverage to help business-
es respond to digital and other cyber-
related incidents.
The Cyber Suite includes coverage for
data breaches, intrusions, cyber attacks,
and damage to data or systems.
“Though we all hear about the big data
breaches, cyber risks are an increasing
threat to small- and mid-sized businesses
as well, and the lumber and building ma-
terials industries are no exception,” John
Smith, the insurer’s president and CEO,
said in a statement. “Our Cyber Suite
offering can help cushion our insureds
against the expensive and time-consum-
ing task of recovering from cyber attacks
and data breaches.”
For more, visit www.plmins.com.
TOOLS & TECHNIQUES
pumice in rubbed out finishes. Running from
1,500 to 12,000 grit, it may be used on bare
or finished wood and is an excellent way to
spot-match finishes. It can be used wet or dry
to achieve matte, satin, or high gloss finishes,
and comes in sheets, discs, pads, blocks and
other forms.
Woodworkers’ Supply (woodworker.com)
operates A&H Abrasives, which can supply
almost any type, shape or grit of abrasives
a woodshop would ever need. For example,
A&H’s Black Max ceramic alumina discs are
manufactured in Germany with a durable J-
weight cloth backing for extended service life
and less edge wear.
For more sanding resources, visit resource-
guide.woodshopnews.com and type ‘abrasives’ in
the search box.
Affinity Tool Works
rebrands core product line
Affinity Tool Works LLC, a private-
ly-owned tool company based in Troy,
Mich., is rebranding its established prod-
uct lines as Bora Portamate to reflect one,
cohesive category brand. The announce-
ment coincides with the company’s acqui-
sition of Centipede Tool LLC of Wiliams-
burg, N.M., manufacturer of the Centi-
pede Support System.
Under the new branding, PortaMate
products and Centipede Tool’s work sta-
tions will be combined, along with the
Bora Tool line, into Bora Portamate as
the main overarching brand for the com-
pany. Affinity Tool Works will become
a separate division as the exclusive U.S.
distributor for HTC, Tormek, Sjobergs
and FISCH.
“Bora Tool carries significant recogni-
tion for consumers and in the market-
place as a trusted, reliable brand and the
rebranding direction better defines our
company to our customers in a crowded
and competitive tool line space,” Todd
Gluski, brand manager for Affinity Tool
Works and Bora Portamate, said in a
statement.
“With the addition of Centipede Tool’s
portable work stations to our product
mix, Bora Portamate expands our dis-
tribution channel both domestically, in-
ternationally and further establishes our
position in the marketplace as a leading
provider of innovative tools and acces-
sories.”
For more, visit www.boratool.com and
www.affinitytool.com.
FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 29

PRO SHOP
with MARK E. BATTERSBY
Tax reform favors shops
that aren’t passing through
A
re you ready for tax reform?
Thanks to the recently passed Tax
Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), the tax
rate for incorporated shops will
30 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018
be reduced from 35 to 21 percent for the 2018
tax year and beyond. The news isn’t as good
for pass-through businesses.
Pass-throughs – operating as partnerships,
limited liability companies, S corporations
and sole proprietorships – pass income to
the owner or owners who pay tax at the in-
dividual rate. The TCJA created a 20 percent
deduction that applies to the first $315,000 of
income (half that for single taxpayers) earned
by pass-through entities.
All businesses under the income thresh-
olds, regardless of whether they’re service
professionals or not, can take advantage of
the 20 percent deduction. For pass-through
income above the ceiling, the new law also
provides a 20 percent deduction, but only
for “business profits,” limiting the owner’s
effective marginal tax rate to no more than
29.6-percent.
The TCJA places limits on just who can
qualify for the pass-through deduction to
ensure that wage income does not receive the
lower marginal tax rates for business income.
Thus, that 20 percent deduction applies only
to business income that has been reduced by
the amount of “reasonable compensation”
paid the owner, which has yet to be defined.
Increased expensing
Unlike past years when a woodworking
business was required to claim depreciation,
spreading the recovery of its equipment costs
over several years, many shops will be able
to fully and immediately deduct expendi-
tures for certain equipment retroactive to
Sept. 27, 2017. The write-off falls to 60 per-
cent in 2023 and 40 percent after 2025.
Section 179 remains an improved option.
The immediate write-off, or expensing of
capital asset expenditures is appealing be-
cause, unlike so-called bonus depreciation,
the use of equipment doesn’t have to begin
with the woodworking shop or business.
Section 179 allows up to $1 million (up
from $500,000 in 2017) of expenditures for
business equipment and property to be treat-
ed as an expense and immediately deducted.
The ceiling after which the Section 179 ex-
pensing allowance must be reduced, dollar-
for-dollar, has also been increased from $2
million to $2.5 million.
And now, improvements including roofs,
heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems,
fire prevention, alarms and security systems
qualify under the new Section 179 rules, pro-
viding yet another opportunity for wood-
working shops that actually need equipment.
Credits repealed
Under the TCJA, the 10 percent credit for
qualified rehabilitation expenditures for pre-
1936 buildings has been repealed. The 20-per-
cent credit for qualified rehabilition expendi-
tures for certified historic structures can still
be claimed, ratably, over a five-year period.
On a related note, the TCJA has also re-
pealed the tax credit so many woodworking
professionals claimed when retrofiting or
fixing up their shops, showrooms and offices
to be handicap friendly. The Disabled Access
Credit that helped make the premises of so
many woodworking businesses ADA compli-
ant has also been repealed.
Interest expenses
In the past, with a few exceptions, interest
was usually tax deductible, protecting the
ability of small businesses to write-off the
interest on loans. In an attempt to level the
playing field between businesses that capi-
talize through equity and those that borrow,
the TCJA caps the interest deduction to 30
percent of the adjusted taxable income of a
woodworking professional or business.
Every business is subject to the disallow-
ance of a deduction for net interest expense
in excess of 30 percent of the operation’s ad-
justed taxable income. A special rule applies
to pass-through entities that requires the 30
percent determination to be made at the en-
tity level rather than at the tax filer level. In
other words, at the partnership level instead
of the partner level.
Other exceptions exist for small businesses,
generally those with gross receipts that have
not exceeded a $25 million threshold for a
three-year period, to protect their ability to
write off the interest on loans that help them
start or expand a business, hire workers and
increase paychecks.
Like-kind exchanges
The tax law’s Section 1031 governing like-
kind exchanges currently allow woodwork-
ing professionals to defer the tax bill on the
built-in gains in property by exchanging it
for similar property. Although more a strat-
egy for deferring a tax bill when business
assets are sold, traded in, swapped or other-
wise disposed of, with multiple exchanges,
gains can be deferred for decades and ulti-
mately escape taxation entirely.
Under the TCJA, like-kind exchanges are
limited to so-called real property (but not for
real property held primarily for sale). This
ensures real estate investors maintain the
benefit of deferring capital gains realized on
the sale of property.
Cash is king
Simplifying the rules governing the meth-
od of accounting that must be used for tax
purposes is a welcome option. Thus, busi-
nesses with average annual gross income of
less than $25 million may now use the simple
cash-basis accounting method.
Accrual basis taxpayers include amounts in
income when all of the events have occurred
that fix the right to receive income can be
determined with reasonable accuracy. Cash
basis taxpayers generally include amounts
in income when actually or constructively
received.
Under the new law, the current $5 million
threshold for corporations and those partner-
ships with a corporate partner has increased
to $25 million and the requirement that such
businesses satisfy the $25 million limits
for all prior years has been repealed. Also,
thanks to the new law, the average gross re-
ceipts test will be indexed to inflation.
With the cash method of accounting,
a woodworking business may account for
inventory as non-incidental materials and
supplies. Or, as an alternative, a business
with inventories using the cash method of ac-
counting will be able to account for its inven-
tories using the same method of accounting
used for its financial statements or its books
and records.
Losing with NOLs
One of the major benefits of Net Operating
Losses (NOLs) was the fact that they could
continued on Page 35

FINISHING
with BOB FLEXNER
Four methods to
prevent fish eye
Silicone, the likely culprit, is also its best defense
I
doubt there’s any problem in finishing more
frustrating than fish eye. The problem usu-
ally appears as moonlike craters in the first
coat of finish seconds after application, but
it can also appear as ridges (sometimes called
“crawling”), and it can hold off showing itself
until the second or third coat.
Fish eye can seem baffling and mysterious,
and this accounts, at least in part, for the misun-
derstandings and misinformation that circulate
about it. But it’s not hard to understand, and once
you do, methods to avoid it are pretty obvious.
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32 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018
Silicone
Fish eye is almost always caused by silicone
that has managed to get into the wood – for ex-
ample, through a crack in the finish. Silicone is
a synthetic material made from silicon (similar
to sand), oxygen, carbon and hydrogen. It can
be a liquid, gel, resin or hard plastic. You are
surely familiar with silicone caulk, and you may
have heard of silicone breast implants. Silicone is
totally inert, meaning that is doesn’t react with
anything.
The liquid version of silicone is a synthetic
760
6 Automattic
Pocket Cutter
0$'(,17+(86$
oil, which is noticeably slicker than mineral oil
when you rub some between your thumb and
index finger. It’s this slick quality that causes fish
eye; finishes pull away from it rather than flow
over it.
When included in furniture polishes the sili-
cone makes darker woods look richer and deep-
er, creates a slicker surface that resists scratches
better than non-silicone polishes, and remains
on the surface much longer so the other two
qualities don’t disappear for a week or longer.
These qualities are the reason silicone furniture
polishes are so popular with consumers.
Almost all aerosol furniture polishes and some
non-aerosols contain silicone. Also, some hand
lotions, cosmetics and even deck stains contain
silicone. This ubiquity of silicone could hor-
rify you, so it’s important to remember that it’s
simply oil, and it can be handled just like any oil
that gets into the wood.
The best warning you will get of possible sili-
cone contamination is when you apply a stain. A
wet coat of stain (or a wet application of mineral
spirits) will fish eye or crawl before you wipe off
the excess.
Fish eye prevention
If you suspect silicone contamination before
you apply a finish, take one or more of the fol-
lowing preventive steps.
$75DFH8
Assembly Table
7+(352)(66,21$/32&.(7
 Add silicone to your finish. This lowers the
surface tension, or slickness, of the finish to
match that of the wood surface, so the finish
then flows out level. Once you’ve added silicone
to one coat of finish, you have to add it to each
additional coat.
Silicone intended for this purpose is sold
under a number of trade names, including Fish-
Eye Destroyer, Fish-Eye Flo Out, Sil Flo and
Smoothie. You can add the silicone directly to
any solvent lacquer and stir it in, but you will
need to thin it a little with mineral spirits before
adding it to varnish or polyurethane. For water-
based finishes you will need to get a special
emulsified silicone from the finish manufacturer.
Add one-to-two full eyedroppers to a quart of
finish. This will make the finish feel a little slick-
er and it may raise the gloss slightly. You could
decide to add silicone to a finish on purpose
when you want it to have these characteristics.
Keep in mind that adding silicone to your fin-
ish will contaminate your spray gun and require
you to clean it extra well to remove all the oil.
But contrary to popular myth, you can com-
pletely remove all the silicone from the spray
gun by spraying solvent through it. I’ve done it
countless times.
You should work with a good exhaust to keep
overspray and bounce-back from contaminating
other objects in your shop.
Seal the silicone in the wood with a sprayed
coat of shellac. The alcohol in the shellac isn’t
a solvent for the oil. If you’re spraying lacquer
over the shellac, avoid really wet coats because
the lacquer thinner in the finish could dissolve
through the shellac.
Remove the silicone from the wood in the
same way you would remove any oil. Wash the
wood with a solvent such as mineral spirits or
naphtha. This type of cleaning is only partially
effective, however, because the solvent just thins
the oil. It doesn’t pull the oil out of the pores. So
the trick is to continually change to clean cloths
so you don’t just move the oil around; you pick
it up and remove it. The more times you wash
the wood in this manner, the more you will re-
duce the oil left in the pores until finally there is
not enough to cause a problem.
You can also use a strong detergent, such as
trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water. This will
break down and remove the oil from the wood
fairly effectively, just as soap removes oil from
your hands. But it will introduce water into the
wood, causing you to have to sand off the raised
grain.
Dust on four or five coats of lacquer, then
dissolve the coats together with a wet coat. This
works best with nitrocellulose and CAB-acrylic
lacquer. (You can use this method over a lacquer
finish that has already fish eyed if you first sand
the fish-eye ridges fairly level.)
The trick is to build a thickness of lacquer
without wetting the surface. Then apply a coat
wet enough to dissolve all of the dust coats
and combine them together, but not so wet that
it causes the fish eye to come through. It will
take some practice to get this right, but I know
it works because I did it many times before I
learned of the existence of the silicone products I
could add to the lacquer.
The best method
Adding silicone to the finish is usually the best
method for preventing fish eye because it is the
most predictably effective. A shellac sealer also
works well as long as you don’t dissolve it with
too wet a coat of lacquer. Washing silicone out
of wood is time consuming, costly in solvent
used, and unpredictable since you don’t know
how much to wash because every situation is
different. Dusting on the finish is risky because
of the difficulty getting just the right wetness
when you re-dissolve the dusted coats.
To avoid the unpleasant surprise of fish eye,
especially if you are refinishing rather than
building new, you may choose to make it a
practice to use one or more of these methods
regularly.
Bob Flexner is the author of “Understanding
Wood Finishing” and “Wood Finishing 101.”

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FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 33


THE CUTTING EDGE
with R.W. LEE
A trained operator in basic
electronics can save the day
W
hen you stand back and think
about it, a CNC machine of
whatever variety is nothing
more than another power tool
that depends on a single or multiple electri-
cal motors to operate, and electrical motors
have parts that fail, usually at most inop-
portune time.
A CNC machine typically has two or
more types of electric motors. The first is a
spindle motor that drives the tooling, and
there may be more than one. The others are
AC servomotors, which move the gantry or
bed to precise positions during the machin-
ing process.
34 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018
An AC servomotor houses a rotary encod-
er, a electromechanical device, that generates
light or low-voltage DC electrical signals to
indicate how fast the motor shaft is turning,
accelerating or decelerating, for example.
This feedback automatically generates very
small adjustments via the servo position con-
troller that can be made while the AC ser-
vomotor is running at any speed and in any
direction.
Another major component of the servomo-
tor system is the programmable logic control-
ler (PLC). The servo position controller takes
instructions from the PLC and converts them
into step-and-direction commands, which
are sent to an amplifier and then the rotary
controller.
The last part of the system is the operator
interface (usually a touch screen monitor)
that gives specific commands to the servomo-
tor system that in turn controls the move-
ments of the CNC machine.
If one of these components fails, the CNC
machine is out of commission. One of the
best ways to limit such a failure is to keep the
equipment clean, especially in hard to reach
areas where motors and cabling tend to be
placed. Though there are some that find reg-
ular and systematic cleaning a waste of time,
and hard to manage, loss of production is a
real time waster and is impossible to manage.
Another good practice is to have one or
two complete servomotor systems in reserve,
including a servomotor, servo position con-
troller and amplifier. An extra touch screen
monitor is also a good idea, since it is a prime
candidate to fail because it is used so much.
But it’s a bad idea to start replacing AC
servomotor components without investigat-
ing the cause of the failure. Therefore it is a
wise investment to have at least one operator
trained in basic electronics. This training is
often available from a CNC manufacturer or
a servomotor repair service.
 Unfortunately, there is an amazing array
of ways the system can fail. A multimeter is
probably your best diagnostic tool. But pro-
ceed with caution.
The first step is to shut off and lock out the
machine. High-voltage, 3-phase AC power is
nothing to mess around with, and so is DC
power in a servomotor system that can range
from 5 to 90-volts.
It’s best to wait 15 minutes after locking
out the machine. This provides plenty of
time for the DC bus and any capacitors to
discharge.
A good starting place for static checking is
a visual inspection of all the components. Do
a smell test for burned connectors or wires, a
sure sign that something has shorted. Check
that connections are tight and secure, too.
Besides a multimeter, have a MegOhm-Me-
ter in your toolbox. Also known as a “meg-
ger”, it can generate up to 15,000 DC volts
necessary to test wire insulation and motor
windings for levels of resistance.
But if you don’t know what you’re doing,
call a professional. Though if there is a break-
down, a properly trained operator with basic
electrical problem-solving skills can have the
CNC machine up and running much faster
than having to wait for outside servicers.
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be carried back to more prosperous years
to create a refund of taxes paid in those ear-
lier years to create an immediate infusion
of badly-needed cash. Today, the NOL de-
duction has been severely limited, reducing
its effectiveness. The NOL write-off is now
limited to only 80 percent of the woodwork-
ing operation’s taxable income and only in
special cases will a NOL carryback be permit-
ted. Fortunately, there is no limit on how far
forward NOLs may be carried.
When it comes to the one tax deduction
that many woodworking professionals most
often overlooked or neglected, the Section
199, Domestic Production Activities Deduc-
tion (DPAD), won, hands-down. The DPAD
allowed woodworking shops and businesses
to claim a deduction equal to 9 percent (6
percent for some oil and gas activities) of
their production activities income or their
taxable income for the year, whichever was
less. Of course, the deduction was limited to
50 percent of the W-2 wages paid during the
year and Section 199 applied only to income
derived from goods and property manufac-
tured, produced, grown or extracted within
the U.S., construction activities and some
$ 59,900
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Precision
Engineered
engineering or architectural services. Now,
thanks to the TCJA, the DPAD has been re-
pealed after the 2017 tax year.
Obviously, there are many more changes
contained in the massive, Tax Cuts and Jobs
Act. The newly passed law provides imme-
diate relief from the so-called Death Tax by
doubling the estate tax exemption. The high-
er thresholds would sunset in 2026.
The corporate Alternative Minimum Tax
has been repealed; deductions for local lob-
bying expenses eliminated; S corporations
attempting to convert to regular ‘C’ corpora-
tions will face new rules; and partnerships
will no longer automatically terminate upon
the death or exit of a partner.
According to our lawmakers, the TCJA
modernizes our international tax systems
making it easier and far less costly for U.S.
businesses to bring home foreign earnings.
The international provisions of the TCJA also
prevent U.S. jobs, headquarters and research
from moving overseas by eliminating incen-
tives.
All in all, the TCJA appears to favor busi-
nesses over individuals with longer-lived tax
savings. Unfortunately, with few exceptions,
the potential savings won’t be seen until the
tax bill for 2018 comes due.
Industrial Unbeatable
Performance Value
Business is steady at TCS Woodworking in Baltimore,
but owner Tom Scheve has his eye on the future
By Jennifer Hicks
 Tom Scheve added CNC machinery in 2015 and hopes to focus on more 3D projects in the near future.

D
esigners, contractors and homeowners throughout the Following opportunities
greater Baltimore area have been commissioning custom Scheve, a Baltimore native, started in the medical field as an operat-
cabinetry and furniture from TCS Woodworking for the ing room technician.
PHOTOS: JOHN TROHA/REDUX PLUS

past two decades. Owner Tom (Charles) Scheve appreciates
the business, and while he wants to continue accommodating those
requests for now, he anticipates doing more CNC-based 2D and 3D
projects soon.
The two-man shop offers design and fabrication services with an em-
phasis on the highest quality of craftsmanship.
“We don’t use shortcuts or assembly-line techniques. Each piece is in-
dividually hand-crafted and finished to [a client’s] specifications using
the finest woods and quality hardware available,” says Scheve.
“I loved all of that but not all of the college I had to go through,
plus it didn’t pay very well. So, through an acquaintance, I got in-
volved in the cabinetmaker’s union apprenticeship program and did
that for four years.”
He joined a local cabinet shop for six years, followed by an 11-year
stint at another shop. “The second shop was a bigger shop doing store
fixtures,” says Scheve. “It was okay, and it paid the bills, but it was no-
where near what I wanted to do.”
He became a shop owner in 1998.

How

Improved My Business
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 “It took me a while. I had to get
enough work coming in,” says Scheve.
“A very good friend of mine, a general
contractor, gave me a great deal of ad-
vice. He told me I’d have to have some-
one feeding me work. You can’t do the
work and chase it at the same time.
“That got me thinking about interior
designers and architects. I started mak-
ing phone calls and visits, and was able
to get in with an interior designer. They
just threw me a bone every once and a
while. I was doing good work and I was
on time. I got in with one, then another,
and built my reputation.”
What started in a garage now occupies
a 2,700-sq.-ft. space.
Getting it right
Scheve’s marketing approach centers
on attracting the “right” customers.
and cheaper. But he holds his ground,
cautioning that when you buy cheap,
you buy twice.
“Everyone wants it cheap. The young-
er generation is uneducated in quality.
Because of that they’ve grown up going
to Ikea, Walmart and Value City. You
can buy a whole living room for $1,000
at Value City. They aren’t going to tell
you it’s only going to last five years,
and don’t you dare move because it’s all
going to fall apart. They haven’t gotten
to that point yet where they learn.
“My normal clients are 45 years old
and above, professionals that make high
incomes up to $300,000 or more. I can’t
afford my prices.”
About three quarters of the shop’s
work – mainly kitchens, bars and bath-
Scheve is finding a market for architectural rooms - is supplied through three interi-
components. or designers and six general contractors.

PHOTO: JOHN TROHA/REDUX PLUS

“Everybody will call you, but not ev- The remaining is directly from home-
erybody can afford you. That’s why I owners searching online.
don’t advertise in the Yellow Pages or anything like that. I try to make Most jobs are in the Baltimore metropolitan area.
my website appear that I do extremely high-quality work, which is “Some people ask to come look at the showroom. I don’t have a
what we do, and that it’s expensive. You want probably 85 percent of showroom. It’s whatever we’re working on in the shop. They’re wel-
people to look at that and think that they can’t afford it. Because I can’t come to come and look,” says Scheve.
afford to do 30 estimates a week and get none of them.” Designers are pushing the contemporary look, he says. Lately, it’s
Scheve says he’s felt more strongly about that observation over the gray stain and liming on white oak. “There’s no detail, and the doors
past 10 years, as prospective customers tend to want things cheaper are flat. Raised panel has pretty much gone away. Some contractors

42 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

won’t push the contemporary that much, but it depends if they work
with designers.
“Everybody’s different, but the interior designers are pushing one
taste. I’d love to be able to express my own fruitfulness to my work, but
you do what they tell you. If I’m directly dealing with them, I can show
different items and they either want it or they don’t.”
Exploring possibilities
Scheve’s shop had to be structurally modified to fit his CNC router, a
MultiCam MG, purchased in 2015.
Several years earlier he experienced sticker shock outsourcing a 3D
carving of a radius grape arbor and two corbels.
“What this guy charged me,” says Scheve. “I thought, I’m in the
wrong business. So I started looking in to how much these CNCs cost
and they’re a house payment, starting brand new at $70,000. Then I
started looking for used ones.”
The journey led him to Texas. “I flew there to see the machine but the
problem was how to get it into my building. With a 9’ x 12’ footprint it
was too large, and it probably weighed three tons with the gantry. The
table itself is 2,000 pounds and nobody wanted to move it. We had to
tear a wall out and put on an addition.”
After months of fighting the learning curve, Scheve now has the hang
of his router and wants to focus on 3D work. “I’m starting to head in
that direction with my business,” he says.
“I’ve had some general contractors come in to look for particular
items or molding that they cannot find anywhere else, or corbels that
they can’t buy at a particular size.
“I’m not getting any younger and I don’t want a huge shop. I’d much
rather buy another CNC than hire another person. It doesn’t call in
sick, doesn’t need a vacation, and runs until it’s done.”
Right now, Scheve says the only problem with the CNC focus is that
there’s a Catch 22. He has a four-month backlog and no time to market
his CNC services. As he sorts it out, he knows the best bet is to keep
moving forward and somehow make it happen. Diversifying his prod-
uct offerings will not only be convenient for him, but will help guaran-
tee future business.
“The one shop I worked at for 11 years was a production shop. It did
the same thing repeatedly: store fixtures. It was mind numbing. They
had over 100 employees, and an army just to load and to install. When
things died down in the ’90s it was like a ghost town. It was very scary.
They put all their eggs in one basket and went under. You can’t have
that, or you won’t stay in business.”
Contact: TCS Woodworking, 2730 Loch Raven Rd., Baltimore, MD
21218. Tel: 410-662-5959. www.tcswoodworking.com
TCS Woodworking has
been providing custom
furniture and cabinetry
to the greater Baltimore
market since 1998. Here
are but a few examples.
B
lade technology is moving right along,
and it’s not just tungsten compounds
or plate geometry that’s evolving. Pro-
files are also benefiting from Industry
4.0 technologies. Those include new methods
and cyber tools that allow manufacturers to
change the way they design and build, and also
think.
A good example is the Miter Fold dado set
from Rockler Woodworking & Hardware (rock-
ler.com). In just four passes on the table saw,
the set can turn a flat sheet of plywood or hard-
wood into a drawer box with four sides and
a bottom. The blade cuts a profiled channel
through most of the wood, leaving just the face
veneer intact. The joint is then folded, hinging
on the veneer, which leaves a seamless corner
and grain that flows beautifully through the
joint. The Miter Fold blade can be used to cre-
ate casework, boxes and drawers with minimal
 New technology continues to emerge in the saw blade market
tools and setup, and can also be used as an
ordinary 8’’ dado set. A common problem
with basic 45-degree miter folds is that glue is
funneled to the inside of the joint when folded
closed. The Miter Fold uses a rabbet profile at
the inside of the joint to reduce this tendency.
New technologies let engineers perform
more virtual tests, rather than simply relying
on physical ones. They can run an app that
lets them preview the effect of changing the
gullet depth, or the size or geometry of the
tips, or perhaps even the coating on the plate,
without actually making a new prototype
blade each time. That speeds up the develop-
ment process.
Take, for example, the gullet (the depres-
sion between the teeth, or perhaps between
each set of four or five teeth). This is usually
deeper on ripping blades than crosscut ones
because there is more waste to accommodate
By John English
and remove. Manufacturers can use a comput-
er model to see the results of making the gullet
extra shallow on crosscut blades, which can
slow down the speed at which a woodworker
drags the blade through wood on a radial arm
or sliding miter saw. Slower travel can deliver
less tearout.
Tip geometry is perhaps the most popular
way to tweak performance. Some blades are
ATB (alternating top bevel), so every other
tooth is ground sloping to the right or left.
That produces cleaner edges, but the bottom
of the groove isn’t always flat. So manufactur-
ers have come up with the ATBR (also called
an ATB+R), which is usually four alternate top
bevel teeth followed by a flat rake to clean up
the bottom, and then a gullet.
That’s true of the new 10” ChopMaster Sig-
nature, made by Forrest Mfg. (forrestblades.
com). It’s a 90-tooth trim blade designed to
FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM
produce tight, perfectly cut miter joints, and
also crosscuts with no bottom splinters. It cuts
a 7/64” kerf, has a standard 5/8” bore, and
the teeth are 30-degree ATB+R.
Another high tech approach to improve-
ment is to change the composition of the metal
tips on a blade. GDP/GUHDO (guhdo.com)
says its PCD (polycrystalline diamond) saw
blades have been delivering superior results
in raw stock such as particleboard, MDF, lami-
nates and solid surface materials for some
time now.
As with sharpening stones, diamond saw
technology has become a lot more refined over
recent years, and prices have also dropped.
There are many factors to consider when look-
ing at the price of a diamond blade, and these
include the plate and the diamond quality,
the amount of diamond used, and the cost to
sharpen the blade.
45
 Rockler’s Miter Fold dado set leaves the face
veneer intact for a seamless corner.

SPECIALTY SAW BLADES

Freud Tools (freudtools.com) offers a vast
array of both woodworker and industrial
grade blades designed to cut everything from
wood, composites and solid surface materials
to glue lines and gang rips, as well as scoring
and trim blades in its online catalog. Freud is
one of just a handful of manufacturers world-
wide that produces its own micro-grain car-
bide. Among its technological advances are
coatings such as Silver I.C.E., which prevents
build-up on the blade surface and keeps it
running cooler and cleaner.
For shops that need to economize on materi-
als by making smaller kerf cuts, Total Saw So-
lutions (totalsawsolutions.com) uses advanced
technology to manufacture the world’s thin-
nest carbide-tipped saw blades.
Festool USA (festoolusa.com) offers a com-
plete line of saw blades for its track saws.
Among them is model 495382, a carbide-
tipped 8-1/4” blade for the TS 75 plunge-cut
saw that is specifically designed to handle
solid surface material and laminates. It has
a triple-chip grind and a thin-kerf profile for

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 Cabinetry  Melamine  MDF  Plywood  Hard Woods  Soft Woods  Plastics  Chipboard

Tel: 800.361.3408 Visit: www.axyz.com

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Book your CNC Router demonstration today at one of our 8 sales and service facilities across North America

46 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018


less resistance, more efficient cutting and less
material waste. Laser cut expansion slots re-
duce vibration for faster, quieter cutting, and
an oversized 30mm arbor further reduces vi-
bration.
The Dado Measuring
Guide from Infinity
Cutting Tools.
Tenryu America Inc. (tenryu.com) has
introduced a new line of saw blades that
are suitable for both the Festool TS55 and
TS75 machines, and other tools. It also has
a PTFE-coated plate to reduce vibration
and pitch build-up, and to lower resistance,
and a TAF shear face grind for splinter-free
cross cuts. Miter saw blades for Festool’s
Kapex miter saw are also available. Tenryu
makes over 3,000 types of carbide blades
 An Oshlun dado set.

and is Japan’s leading maker of industrial carbide-

tipped saw blades.
Tenryu blades are available online from Carbide Pro-
cessors Inc. (carbideprocessors.com), catalog house in Ta-
coma, Wash., that also handles Oshlun and Popular Tools
blades. Oshlun manufactures professional-grade circular
saw blades that feature a fully hardened steel alloy plate
and application-specific carbide. For over 20 years, Popu-
lar Tools has been supplying blades to professional shops
and saw mills, and has a huge selection of large diameter
saw blades.

OTHER RESOURCES
Charles G.G. Schmidt & Co. (cggschmidt.com) makes
panel saw, scoring, solid surface, rip, dado and crosscut
blades, including a 10”, 60-tooth circular saw blade with
an ATB grind. The company specializes in custom tooling,
and has done so for almost 90 years.
Amana Tool (amanatool.com) carries an extensive collec-
tion, including its industrial Electro-Blu non-stick coated
blades for just about any occasion.
Burns Power Tools (burnstools.com) carries several lines
of commercial saw blades, and also performs industrial
sharpening of most cutters, knives and saw blades. The
shop specializes in servicing carbide-tipped blades and
cutters.
Connecticut Saw & Tool (ctsaw.com) has recently in-
vested almost $250,000 in new equipment for its saw blade
sharpening department. The purchase of two Vollmer
CP200 carbide saw grinders and one Loroch Ekostar 760
HSS/Cold Saw grinder brings the company’s total sharp-
ening capacity to over 1,000 saw blades per shift per week,
with 16 automatic saw grinders.
Quality Saw & Tool (qualitysawandtool.com) has also invest-
ed heavily in high tech sharpening equipment of late, and it

48 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

 Stiles Machinery teams up to give back
As 2017 comes to an end, Stiles Machinery
Inc. is proud to have supported organiza-
tions throughout the country making the
world a better, safer, healthier place to live.
“From repopulating the world’s old
growth trees to supporting families and first
responders affected by Hurricane Harvey,
Stiles employees have made a significant
impact this year by passionately partnering
with these important initiatives,” the com-
pany said in a statement.
Archangel Ancient Tree Archive is one of
the many organizations supported by Stiles.
Its mission is to repopulate the world’s old-
est and most resilient trees to leave a living
legacy for generations to come.
Throughout the year, Stiles supported
AATA by sending team members to its
headquarters to participate in monthly
team building exercises and hands-on plant
growth and preservation training.
Stiles also contributed to relief efforts fol-
lowing the destruction left by Hurricanes
Harvey and Irma, with an equal match for
every dollar donated by employees to the
Red Cross in September.
Stiles employees also joined forces with
the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life
as well as the AVON 39 Walk to End Breast
Cancer.
For more, visit www.stilesmachinery.com.

also carries its own brand, the Ultra-Cut.

Specialty Saw (specialtysaw.com) designs,
engineers and manufactures professional-
grade industrial saw blades. In addition to
sharpening and repair, it supplies wood cut-
ting blades from 10” to 36” diameter.
Vermont American (vermontamerican.com)
is owned by Robert Bosch GmbH. Under the
‘Resources’ tab on its homepage, the com-
pany has several very helpful articles that
explain topics such as blade speed, terminol-
ogy and anatomy.
Eagle America (eagleamerica.com) has start-
ed carrying an eight-piece stacked dado
set from Oshlun. The 8” version retails for
$119.99 and there’s a 6” set on sale for $89.99.
Both include shims.
Infinity Cutting Tools (infinitytools.com)
has just the accessory for anyone using a
stacked dado set. The Dado Measuring
Gauge (DMG-800) is a simple disc with cut-
outs that accurately measure stock thickness
for setting up a dado cut.
Grizzly (grizzly.com) carries several manu-
facturers’ products plus a number of its own
brand of blades, including a good selection
of scoring blades. Hickory Saw & Tool, Inc.
(hickorysawandtool.com) has a wide range of
blades for industrial machines. Leitz Tooling
Systems LP (leitztooling.com) offers two rang-
es of circular saw blades, Industrial and Pro,
while the Blade Manufacturing Co. (blademfg.
com) offers hundreds of steel and carbide
blades, including custom manufacturing and
sharpening services.

FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 49

 Anderson America’s Selexx Plus.

PARTNERS
FOR CHANGE
Manufacturers of machines and software are working together
to provide digital fabrication solutions

By John English

50 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

 n December, three companies CNC Factory (cncfactory.com)

I with CNC connections got to-

gether and presented a produc-
tivity workshop in California.
Experts from Lockdowel, Laguna
Tools and Microvellum met at the
has also introduced a Lockdowel
automatic inserter machine, and
its model has four stations. The
company has worked with Lock-
dowel to build the Scorpion LDR
Laguna Tools showroom in Irvine that has automatic material load-
and showed shop owners and ing, laser guided robotic measur-
managers how an integrated ap- ing, advanced wireless barcode
proach – using the best technolo- reading - and a single employee
gies from each supplier – can have can run it. The Scorpion works
an immediate and meaningful im- with software programs such
pact on production. as Cabinet Vision, Mozaik, Top
The fact that manufacturers of Solid, Solid Works, Microvellum,
machines and software are work- Imos and more, and it provides an
ing together to provide solutions The Scorpion LRD (top) integrated platform for growth in
was also the basis of an interesting and Felder’s Profit H08. robotic lean manufacturing.
blog on Jan. 4 on the AXYZ web-
site (axyz.com). Titled “The case for SOFTWARE
open architecture vs. proprietary INNOVATIONS
CNC technology”, it underscored Software is becoming as much a
the fact that shops are now using key to CNC in larger shops as the
CAD/CAM programming that actual machinery, and C.R. On-
comes from a variety of sources. srud is one industry leader that
“In a CNC system,” the blog Komo’s Extreme 5-axis. recognizes that. The company’s
reads, “open architecture provides newest open-architecture soft-
for future modifications and up- ware, Osync Machine Analytics
grades to meet the needs of end 2.0, is designed to give woodshop
users as their businesses and cus- managers a customizable inter-
tomer bases evolve. Proprietary face, providing both real-time and
technology, on the other hand, is archived data about machine sta-
often limited to one specific pro- bility and performance. The origi-
gramming language. As a result, nal Osync has been functional for
the option of switching to newer a couple of years, so it’s already
and possibly more productive shop-tested. In the spirit of inte-
programming systems may not be grating resources, Onsrud used
available, which makes the CNC system more costly in the long run, es- the new version during AWFS to monitor not only its own machinery,
pecially if additional equipment must be brought in to handle expand- but also that of its strategic partner, the IMA Schelling Group. A third
ing needs.” partner, Eurosoft, integrates Osync into workflow software so that end-
It’s a good point, especially as the field of CNC manufacturers cater- users get better predictive capabilities.
ing to larger shops continues to grow and smaller shops continue to Komo Machine (komo.com) offers its Machine Manager 4.0 software.
trend toward outsourcing, while more and more apps reach across soft- The package is a powerful app that allows the customer to keep track
ware boundaries. of machine productivity and tool life by sending real-time, configu-
Laguna Tools (lagunatools.com) recently introduced its new Lockdowel rable updates to plant management. Komo recently introduced its new
boring/inserting machine at AWFS 2017. The LD4 drills and inserts Xtreme 5-Axis CNC, which was developed specifically for woodshops
Lockdowel’s E-clip products, and when used in conjunction with one of that require machining flexibility and more Z travel. The company also
Laguna’s SmartShop CNC routers, creates a complete fastening solution has a new Autoloader 2.0 with an offload conveyor for panel process-
for cabinets. It has four zones and two drilling units – one for 5 mm, and ing and nesting applications.
one for 8 mm – and its two vibrating barrels have the ability to insert 30 Carbide 3D has uploaded a new version of its Carbide Create pack-
mm or 40 mm spring pins and E-clips, H-clips or channel locks. age with a feature that the company has been planning for a while:

FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 51

 Texture Toolpaths. This can create textures on
parts – anything from simple hatching to a hand
carved look – which is milled by moving the
cutter in a sweeping motion into the stock, and
then back out. Like V-carving, this motion gives
the finished parts a 3D look without the time
required for 3D machining.
Thermwood (thermwood.com) makes the Cut
Center, which can operate in the traditional
CNC manner but can also cut parts with no
custom programming, no computer and no
software. Just select a project from the library,
plug in the size and start feeding material to
the machine.
The new Profit H08 21.31.
The new Nextec software from Holz-Her (hol-
zherusa.com) allows a woodworker to do similar
things. Once a raw panel is in position, the CNC
does the rest – perfect formatting, drilling of
vertical holes and grooves, and even milling
Lamello P-System cutouts on the edges and in
X and Y directions on the surface. There’s no re-
clamping, and no loss of time or quality.

CNC Factory’s Python XPR with robitic loading.
Nextech’s R400.
NEW MACHINES
Along with software, robotics are also mak-
ing some big waves in the world of larger
CNC routers.
For example, the new Python XPR from
CNC Factory works in either manual or robotic
mode and has robotic loading and unloading.
Equipped with a HSD 12-hp air-cooled spindle
and a rotary ATC 12-tool carousal, the Python
offers rapid travel of over 1,800 inches per min-
ute (IPM). It will complete long, complex, multi-
tool tasks from one sheet to 50 sheets, and do so
automatically at the push of a button.
That kind of speed is becoming a reality in
more and more machines. For example, Mul-
tiCam’s top of the line machine has a cutting
speed up to 2,200 IPM, and a rapid traverse rate
of 3,000 IPM. The company (multicam.com) also
has a 7000 Series router that can be customized
with up to 20 horsepower, and a range of work
areas from 5’ x 5’ on the small end to 10’ x 50’.
Upgradable options are part and parcel of
buying larger CNC machinery, and they turn
buying a machine into a very custom experi-
ence. For example, NewCNC (newcnc.com) of-
fers fully automated lines with label printing,
plus machines that unload the table. The com-
pany’s 5-axis machine is designed to machine
five faces of a workpiece as well as perform
normal 3D machining. It’s available in single
and twin table configurations, and includes a
modular fixturing system that incorporates both
mechanical and vacuum clamping.
The new Profit H08 21.31 CNC machine cen-
ter from Felder USA (felder-group.com) is de-
signed for nesting and automated efficiency. It
has 15 tool positions, a drilling head with eight
spindles, and zoned vacuum controls.
Masterwood CNC (masterwood.com) has intro-

52 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

Techno’s HD2. MultiCam’s 7000 Series.

duced new glue injection and dowel insertion capabilities for its model
TF100; new nesting capabilities for five of its MW machines; a new
Project 351 CNC that has large tool magazines and a pod & rail work-
table; and, of course, new software: the latest version of Master 3D is
now included in the price of every Masterwood machine.
SCM Group has acquired a controlling share of Grimme, a manu-
facturer of 5-axis machines. Among its newest innovations is a gantry
rotary table milling machine with an inclined bed.
Thermwood recently introduced its new Multi-Purpose 90 that
takes technology a little farther: the machine is 3D laser-calibrated to
assure the most accurate absolute positioning and repeatability. This
is a heavy-duty, five-axis CNC designed for high-speed trimming and
pattern machining. It’s available in single or dual moving aluminum
tables and is capable of full 5-axis simultaneous motions with ex-
tremely fast accelerations.
FAMILIAR NAMES
Legend has it that CNC routers were invented in Japan back in 1968
by Isao Shoda, and the company that he founded (shoda.com) continues
to innovate half a century later. Shoda’s latest Planet Blue model is

$6450.
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FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 53


The 5-axis machine from NewCNC.
completely shrouded for a dust-free workstation. In addition, the entire
drive system is also protected from fines. It has a new spindle change
system that makes quick work of the task, and it uses shop space very
efficiently thanks to a compact physical footprint. Three models are
available for different work scales.
Hendrick Mfg. (hendrickmanufacturing.com) offers two 5-axis CNC op-
54 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018
tions. The HSR-V comes as a twin moving table model,
or a single stationary table with moving gantry. And
the HHD-V offers real-time tool center point rotation,
and all 5 axes are fully synchronized.
Nextech Machinery (nextechmachinery.com) intro-
duced its new R400 moving gantry CNC router about
a year ago. The machine has auto loading and unload-
ing, remote diagnostics that ensure maximum uptime,
and available label printing. The R400 is the latest in
an extensive portfolio of the company’s machines that
includes flat-table CNC routers either with or without
automation, flexible pod & rail centers, space-saving
vertical drilling and routing machines, and 5-axis ma-
chines with moving table or gantries.
SNX Technologies (snxtechnologies.com) supplies the
nVentor line of CNC routers, which have a phenolic
vacuum table mounted to a cast iron steel plate, and
Syntec controls. The positioning bearings, ball screws
and racks are all serviced by an automatic lubrication
system that is activated directly by the machine control.
Anderson America (andersonamerica.com) has been
building CNC machinery for 24 years and has placed
more than 19,000 machines worldwide. One of the
latest is the Selexx Plus 512 TC+D, which is a moving
gantry machine equipped with a 12-hp spindle, eight-
position tool changer and numerous features.
Diversified Machine Systems (dmscncrouters.com) builds a variety of
5-and 3-axis machines, and specializes in custom solutions. Routers are
available with a single or twin moving table, moving gantry and over-
head gantry configurations.

The DMS 5-axis.
Techno CNC Systems (technocnc.com) introduced the new HD II large
format CNC router about a year ago. It includes a 12-hp HSD automatic
tool changer, eight-position tool rack and a pneumatically actuated vac-
uum hood that concentrates airflow on the spindle tool. It’s available in
4’x4’, 4’x8’, and 5’x10’ sizes, but larger sizes are available upon request.
K Body REVO
The best parallel clamp in the world just got better!
How? By listening to you and building in features that provide the solutions you asked for! The newest generation K Body REVO (KRE)
adds a handle with built-in hex head socket for applying clamping force when desired and, a new operating jaw that stays where you
put it for easy set up; position it where you like and apply clamping force.
The Cobra Elite from Camaster (camaster.com) is on the
cusp between medium and large shop machines. It can
handle production runs (up to a 16-hp spindle is available),
but it can also be bought on a limited budget and then up-
graded over time. The CR-510 model has a cutting size of
an inch over 5’x10’, and some of the options available are
automatic tool changing, multiple spindles, drill banks, ag-
gregate heads, knives and an extended gantry.
CNC ENHANCEMENTS
Speaking of upgrading, Vision Engraving & Routing
Systems has announced that its CNC routers with a vacu-
um table option will now come with a Black Box vacuum
system. The Storm system will be packaged with Vision’s
2550, and the larger Hurricane will serve the VR48.
The new G2 Combo from ETP Transmission AB gives a
woodshop the benefits of using a hydraulic chuck for rout-
er bits and a hydraulic arbor for profile tools – at the same
time. One can also use reduction sleeves in the 16 mm
chuck and run several smaller, frequently used shaft sizes.
An upgrade from Tormach takes the form of a new
power drawbar that is designed to reduce tool change
time. Simply press a button to swap out cutting tools.
An upgrade for smaller machines from Next Wave Au-
tomation promises to open up new possibilities for larger
CNC machines. Called Virtual Vision 3D software, it’s a 3D laser scan-
ner that can be attached to any of the company’s CNCs, and will be
available this spring. It allows the user to quickly map any object that
is placed on the CNC table in 3D to create a model. Users can then ac-
curately engrave, carve or 3D print a duplicate using that 3D model.
besseytools.com facebook.com/BesseyToolsNorthAmerica instagram.com/BesseyTools_na
FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 55
 There’s help available and lots that can
be done to clean up your act
By John English

I
t sounds so simple – turn on a vacuum and suck up the dust. But there is so
much more to effective dust control in a woodshop. And it begins with the
question: Why bother?
Collecting and eliminating dust is done for three main reasons: the health of
those using the shop, the quality of the work, especially in terms of finishes, and
the prevention of fire. There are other motivators too, such as the fact that clean
spaces tend to be more efficient and more pleasant, or that machines run best with-
out airborne contaminants gumming up the gears.
The health issue is obvious. Ingesting fines over a long period of time can cause
or aggravate a number of serious problems including nasal, throat or lung cancers,
respiratory diseases such as asthma and emphysema, and chronic obstructive pul-
monary disease (COPD).
The relationship between airborne dust and the quality of work is also easy to
grasp. For example, fine particles that settle on fresh topcoats are more than an-
noying: they’re expensive to repair. Dust accumulating around automated and
even manual stops or other measurement or control devices can affect accuracy,
and fine dust can elevate repair bills in sensitive machinery, especially computers
and control panels.
Then there’s fire. The dangers presented by layers of fine dust on top of lights,
machine housings, furnaces and other heat generating objects are at the back of
every woodshop owner’s mind, including the possibility of spontaneous com-
bustion, flash explosions during a fire, and smoldering heat in a cabinet saw that
erupts into flame in the middle of the night.
The best way to control fine dust is to prevent both fine and coarse particles from
PHOTO: MICHAEL GORDON

escaping into the air. Collecting debris at the moment it is created has become a lot
easier over the past few years. CNC manufacturers have led the charge, creating
contained spaces within which the work is performed and the waste is managed.
Portable tool manufacturers have greatly improved the ability to collect dust on
hand-held tools such as sanders, routers and saws. And the dust collection units
themselves have come a long way, both in terms of efficiency and also accessories
such as automated blast gates and improved bag fabric and design.

FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 57


THE GREAT FILTER DEBATE
So, you’re standing in the middle of the shop and wondering how to
assess whether you have a dust problem. Step One is to get out a ladder
and take a peek at the tops of any ductwork (both dust collection and
standard heating or cooling), and also the tops of hanging fluorescent
lights or similar ceiling-hung appendages. Then follow Lauren Bacall’s
advice to Bogey about whistling in To Have And Have Not: put your
lips together and blow. If dust goes airborne, it is time to clean the en-
tire shop and install measures that prevent further accumulation.
Here’s the problem. Most “dust collectors”, especially for small
shops, really don’t collect dust. They might be more accurately de-
scribed as chip collectors. They rely on breathable filters (fabric bags
that let air pass through) to collect those chips, but the holes in the
bags are often so large that the real killers, the finest particles, can pass
through.
Another aspect of filters that the industry needs to explore in more
detail, and report on more accurately, is caking. On the inside of a bag,
fine dust will tend to cake on the walls of the fabric that’s being used as
a filter. This physically gums up, and reduces, the size of the holes and
the amount of air – and fine dust – that can pass through. Some manu-
facturers actually use this phenomenon to upgrade the verbal descrip-
tion that they use when selling a dust collector. They might claim the
bag filters dust down to 1 micron, even though the holes in the fabric
are, say, 20 microns in diameter.
One industry definition of fine dust is “particles that are small and
light enough to float in the indoor air”. You can see the largest of these
in a ray of sunshine, but the ones that most adversely affect our health
– those below about ten microns in diameter – are far too small to be
readily visible.
A micron, by the way, is also called a micrometer, which is a bit con-
fusing as it’s the same name as a measuring device used by engineers
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58 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018
and scientists. One micron (written as μm) equals 0.001 mm. A human
hair is in the neighborhood of 50 microns in diameter, so one can imag-
ine how small a 1-micron dust particle might be. OSHA reports that
studies on wood dust reveal that between 61 to 65 percent of particles
measure between one and five microns in diameter (IARC 1995). Those
are the little critters that can work their way deep into our nasal pas-
sages and lungs, and accumulate there to create obstacles that cause ir-
ritation. When the body responds and attempts to remove these foreign
bodies, we often experience infection and other more serious reactions.
And it’s not just size that matters. The particular wood species being
machined or sanded is often a problem, too. For example, cedars can
cause allergies, and most man-made materials have a long string of
chemicals in their make-up, including potentially harmful ingredients
such as formaldehyde.
THINGS WE CAN DO
Clean the shop regularly, especially in those hard-to-access areas.
Then install some indoor air quality monitors to keep track of particle
levels. Most manufacturers of these devices will be able to explain safe
thresholds, and that’s important. If you don’t have a goal, you can’t
meet it.
Install mechanical filters to scrub the shop air. There are dozens of
products on the market that combine a fan with filters and hang above
workbenches in the shop. Even a shop-built one can be effective: there
are several plans online for making one, using an old furnace fan and a
series of three or four furnace filters.
Harvest dust at the tool. This begins with using a downdraft table for
all activities that generate fines, such as sanding. The next step is to buy
high-end tools that have built-in dust collection devices, or ports that
allow a shop vacuum or even a central collector hose to be attached.
Be aware that you generally get what you pay for here: a manufacturer
that offers an integrated system which includes both a palm sander and
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NEW
PRODUCTS
 AXYZ INTERNATIONAL has relea d l
new products available as options
of its CNC routers, including two new au
changer options with capacity for either
14 tool stations. Additionally, the compan
existing 7- and 21-station units have been u
graded with improved mechanics and driv
motors. The new Kiss Cutting Knife expands
functionality of the company’s Trident, Pacer and
AXYZ machines by allowing the routers to cut wider rang-
es of materials. A range of adapters allows the Kiss Cutting
Knife to fit into most existing spindles and tangential knife
tools. The blade holder doubles as an effective pen plotter and
the unit has an adjustable pressure setting permitting the knife
to be used on different types and thicknesses of vinyl. AXYZ’s
new HSD spindle operates at 6.7-hp when running at speeds of
40,000 rpm and 8.7-hp when running at standard cutting speeds
of 12,000-24,000 rpm, according to the company. For more, visit
www.axyz.com and www.cncroutershop.com.

Upgrade your manual system into a hero

And let your tools control the dust collection
AUTOMATICALLY OPERATES THE GATES AND CONTROLS THE COLLECTOR
3 GATE STARTER SYSTEM IS EXPANDABLE TO AS MANY GATES AS YOU NEED
EASY PLUG-AND-PLAY INSTALLATION
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HYBRID GATE CONTROL SEALED MOTORIZED

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AUTOMATIC DUST COLLECTION SYSTEMS

Built on proven ECOGATE technology
CHECK US OUT AT www.grngate.com

60 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

  DEWALT introduces
its redesigned Flex-
Torq screwdriver bits fea-
turing an extended FlexTorq
Zone to transfer optimal
torque in hard joint applica-
tions, providing durability
and longer life, according to
the company. For more, visit
www.dewalt.com.

VACUUM PRESSING SYSTEMS, INC.

VENEERING AND
LAMINATING WITH VACUUM
VacuPress®, the leader in vacuum technology
for woodworking offers a complete line of
innovative products for veneering, laminating
and clamping with vacuum.
• Auto self cycling electric and
air driven vacuum pumps
• FlipTop frame table presses
• Full line of panel and laminating bags
in vinyl and polyurethane
• Veneering glue and accessories
Products and information online at
www.vacupress.com

The number one choice of woodworkers everywhere.













 

FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 61

 BOSCH presents the Blaze One and
Blaze Pro laser measures with a 165’
range, accuracy up to ±1/16”, a backlit display
and professional features, according to the
company. The Blaze One is a one-button mea-
surement tool, while the Blaze Pro delivers
real-time point-and-shoot measurement, plus
area, volume, indirect measuring functions
and a 10-measurement storage capability. The
tools come with a wrist strap, target cards and
a pouch. For more, visit www.boschtools.com.

7KH2ULJLQDO-'6

7KH-RLQHU\0DFKLQH
Now built and sold by
Lorraine Machine, Inc.
Made in America

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Office: 864.299.1070
Cell: 864.979.1085

The 0XOWL5RXWHUis the ultimate joinery machine for

small shops. The 0XOWL5RXWHU can handle face frames,
doors, or drawers, in a custom shop with surprising ease.
The Multi-Router system is precision built,
Lorraine Machine, Inc. incredibly accurate, and reliable.
Greenville, SC.
www.Multi-Router.com LorraineMachine@aol.com

62 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

 NEW PRODUCTS


KAPRO TOOLS presents its line of Optivison Red
leveling products, including the model 905 condor
box level, 935 10” toolbox level, 946 Smarty 4” magnetic
pocket level and 930 SmartCast mason’s level. Kapro’s
patented Optivision vial features an easy-to-read vial
bubble with super defined edges and strong surrounding
color definition, as well as an extra set of reading lines for
setting gradients at 1 and 2 percent, according to the com-
pany. For more, visit www.kapro.com.


ACCURIDE’S new Clip-On Bracket lets you bot-
tom- and platform-mount several of the company’s
most popular side-mount drawer slides. Available in even
lengths from 14” to 22”, as well as a choice of clear zinc,
white and black finishes. The bracket requires no screws
or bolts to install and is compatible with eight models of
Accuride side-mount drawer slides, including the 3832E,
3732, 2109, and 2132. For more, visit www.accuride.com.

VENTLESS LLC.
New York - Toronto
GO VENTLESS! THE FUTURE WAY TO SPRAY TODAY!

NO AIR MAKE UP NO HEAT LOSS

NO STACK NO DUST
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GREEN ENERGY 90% LESS EMISSION!

Sold everywhere from New York to LA

Call us at (646) 696-0809 or visit www.ventless.ca

FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 63

NEW PRODUCTS

 DOUG MOCKETT & CO.

introduces the model PCS94
Tabletop Power Monument, a free-
standing power dock with weight-
ed base and grip pad underneath
that goes anywhere power access is
needed. It offers the elegance of an
in-desk power grommet with the
added convenience and mobility
of a portable charger, according to
the architectural hardware supplier.
The Tabletop Power Monument is
available in three sizes and colors.
For more, visit www.mockett.com.

MOLDERS
7 Y E A R WA R R A N T Y

Model 206 Molder

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SHARPENING SERVICES

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105 State Route 101A, Unit 4

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64 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

 NEW PRODUCTS

 MILWAUKEE TOOL is
introducing the next gen-
eration of its M12 Fuel 12-volt
cordless line with a redesigned
1/2” drill/driver, 1/2” hammer
drill, and 1/4” hex impact driver.
“By pairing our newest cordless
technologies with design features
born from our user-driven re-
search, we’re setting the indus-
try standard once again with our
newest generation of M12 drilling
and fastening products, designed
to provide users with power and
portability like they’ve never ex-
perienced before with a sub-com-
pact solution,” the company said
in a statement. For more, visit
www.milwaukeetool.com.










 


 
 

Macron Woodworking Machinery

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* Easy Lift Assembly Tables
* Custom Made
* Made in the U.S.A.
* Decrease fatigue / Increase production
marconwoodworkingmachinery@gmail.com • (707) 292-6289
Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSTDL3KDBbs

FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 65

AT THE GALLERIES

Maine Wood 2018

opens at Messler Gallery
By Jennifer Hicks

M
aine Wood 2018 opened at the
Messler Gallery at the Center for
Furniture Craftsmanship on Jan.
19 with a reception and awards
ceremony. The juried, biennial exhibition de-
signed to showcase the breadth, creativity,
and excellence of Maine’s woodworking com-
munity will run through April 11.
The Center received 91 submissions from 47
artists and artisans.
“This is our sixth biennial and it’s a joy to
see how Maine’s woodworking community
continues to grow with excellent new makers
being juried in every time,” says Peter Korn,
executive director of the Center.
Furniture makers include Melinda Aste of
Portland; Nick Barboza of Hamden; David
Boyle of Bath; William Francis Brown and
Libby Schrum of Camden; Saer T. Huston of
Kennebunkport; Aled Lewis and Michaela
Crie Stone of Rockport; Heide Martin of Ap- Maine Wood 2018 includes this bench seat by
Aled Lewis.
pleton, and Jeremy Porter of Rockland.

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0RVW.H\VWRQHSURGXFWVDUHDYDLODEOH)6&ŠFHUWLÀHG

66 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

CALENDAR show featuring the latest products from hun-
dreds of exhibitors and dozens of seminars
New Orleans. www.iwpa.org

to help woodworking business operations MAINE

O
rganizations sponsoring meetings, achieve maximum production, profit and ef- Feb. 19 – May 11 — Furniture Intensive. De-
classes or shows of interest to pro- ficiency. Location: Georgia World Congress signed for aspiring professional furniture mak-
fessional or hobbyist woodwork- Center in Atlanta. www.iwfatlanta.com ers, this 12-week program is held in a fully
ers are invited to submit items to: equipped shop with daily personal instruction.
Calendar, Woodshop News, 10 Bokum Road, HAWAII Location: Center for Furniture Craftsmanship
Essex, CT 06426; editorial@woodshopnews.com. May 1-4 — Woodworking Industry Con- in Rockport.www.woodschool.org.
— Compiled by Jennifer Hicks ference (WIC 2018), sponsored by the Wood
Machinery Manufacturers of America, will ad- MISSOURI
CALIFORNIA dress wood industry topics through seminars, Feb. 16-18 — The Woodworking Show.
Monthly — San Fernando Valley Wood- panelists and networking events. Location: Location: Kemper Arena Grounds in Kansas
workers meetings are held on the third Thurs- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa in Maui. City. www.thewoodworkingshows.com
day of each month at 7 p.m. at the Balboa Park www.woodworkingindustryconference.com
Sports Complex, Gym Building, at 17015 Bur- NEW HAMPSHIRE
bank Boulevard in Encino. www.sfvw.org ILLINOIS April 25-28 — Stairbuilders and Manufac-
Feb. 9-11 — The Woodworking Show. Lo- turers Association’s annual conference. At-
COLORADO cation: Gateway Center in Collinsville. www. tendees will experience networking events,
March 1-2 — Cabinet Makers Associa- thewoodworkingshows.com seminars and a special event at the city’s
tion’s national conference. Scheduled agen- Loretto Chapel, featuring the famous Mirac-
da includes educational seminars, network- INDIANA ulous Staircase. Location: La Fonda on the
ing events and keynote address by furniture Feb. 2-4 — The Woodworking Show. Lo- Plaza in Santa Fe. www.stairways.org
maker. Location: Crowne Plaza Denver Air- cation: Champions Pavilion in Indianapolis.
port Convention Center in Denver. www.cabi- www.thewoodworkingshows.com NEW YORK
netmakers.org April 21 — Rochester Woodworkers Soci-
LOUISIANA ety Members Showcase. Location: Eisenhart
GEORGIA March 18-20 — International Wood Prod- Auditorium at the Rochester Museum and
Aug. 22-25 — International Woodworking ucts Association’s 62 annual World of Wood Science Center in Rochester. www.rochester-
Fair. Biennial woodworking industry trade Convention Location: Hotel Monteleone in woodworkers.org

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68 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018

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Call 860-767-3200 ext. 242 for Advertising Information

Hardwoods Sharpening Spray Booth & Finishing Vacuum Supplies

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ADVERTISING INDEX
Amana Tool .....................................................www.amanatool.com..................................................C4
American Fabric Filter Co ....................www.americanfabricfilter.com.............................64
Anderson America Corp. .......................www.andersonamerica.com.................................... 2
AXYZ Automation Inc. ..............................www.AXYZ.com .............................................................46
Beaver Tools ...................................................www.beavertools.com ..................................... 18, 47
Berkshire Products....................................www.BerkProducts.com..........................................68
BESSEY Tools North America ............www.besseytools.com ..............................................55
Better Vacuum Cups, Inc.......................www.GreenBVC.com..................................................62
Biesse America ............................................www.biesseamerica.com .......................................17
Boaters University .....................................wwwboatersuniversity.com....................................C3
Cabinet Pro LLC ...........................................www.cabinetpro.com .................................................16
cabinet vision / vero software ...........essential.cabinetvision.com....................................13
CAMaster ........................................................www.CAMaster.com ..................................................35
Cantek America Inc....................................www.cantekamerica.com .......................................24
Casadei Busellato ........................................www.casadei-busellato.com...................................26
Castaly Machine...........................................www.lobomachine.com ...........................................49
Castle, Inc..........................................................www.castleusa.com ....................................................32
CNC Factory ..................................................www.CNCFactory.com .............................................59
Connecticut Saw & Tool .........................www.ctsaw.com .............................................................. 5
Diversified Machine Systems ..............www.dmscncrouters.com ......................................19
Easy Lift Assembly.......................................……............................................................................................65
Festool USA.....................................................www.festoolusa.com...................................................15
Frontline Engineering ................................www.frontlineengineering.com.au .....................29
Grizzly Industrial, Inc ...................................www.grizzly.com.....................................................36-37
GrnGate..............................................................www.grngate.com ........................................................60
Hafele America Co. ....................................www.hafele.com/us ...................................................67
Harvey Industries.........................................www.harveymachinery.com...................................28
Hearne Hardwoods ...................................www.hearnehardwoods.com................................34
Hoffmann Machine Company .............www.hoffmann-usa.com...........................................67
Holz-Her U.S. Inc...........................................www.holzher.com ........................................................11
IWF Atlanta......................................................www.iwfatlanta.com ....................................................21
KCD Software ................................................www.KCDsoftware.com .............................................. 7
Keystone Wood Specialties..................www.keystonewood.com .........................................66
Laguna Tools Inc. .........................................www.lagunatools.com................................................42
Lamello ...............................................................www.csaw.com/lamello ..........................................41
Lignomat USA, LTD....................................www.lignomat.com ......................................................12
Lorraine Machine ........................................www.multi-router.com ...............................................62
MARTIN Woodworking Machines Corp................................................................................................
..................................................................................www.martin-usa.com .................................................68
Mirka Abrasives Inc. ..................................www.mirka.com .............................................................23
Mozaik Software Inc ..................................www.mozaiksoftware.com......................................... 4
New England Drawer................................www.newenglanddrawer.com .............................63
Next Wave Automation ..........................www.nextwaveautomation.com ..........................25
Oneida Air Systems Inc ..........................www.oneida-air.com....................................................27
PMK Family, LLC ..........................................www.pmksystems.com.............................................54
Precision Drive Systems, PDS............www.PDSspindles.com ................................................ 3
Safety Speed Manufacturing Comp..........................................................................................................
..................................................................................www.SafetySpeed.com .............................................66
SandMan Products....................................www.sandmanproducts.com ...............................65
Scm Group .....................................................www.scmgroupna.com ...........................................30
ShopBot Tools, Inc ......................................www.shopbottools.com ............................................33
SLIPIT Industries...........................................www.slipit.com ................................................................... 8
Southworth Products Corp .................www.southworthproducts.com...........................14
Stiles Machinery...........................................www.stilesmachinery.com ......................................... 1
Tablelegs.com ................................................www.tablelegs.com......................................................61
Thermwood Corp .......................................www.thermwood.com ...............................................22
Uneeda Enterprises Inc...........................www.uneeda.com ........................................................31
Vacuum Pressing Systems ..................www.vacupress.com ..................................................61
Ventless Inc. ....................................................www.ventless.ca ............................................................63
Virutex .................................................................www.virutex.com .............................................................. 9
Vortex Tool Co., Inc .....................................www.vortextool.com....................................................53
W. Moore Profiles Ltd ............................www.wmooreprofiles.com ......................................20
Williams & Hussey Machine Co........www.williamsnhussey.com .....................................64
Woodcraft Supply LLC .............................www.woodcraft.com...................................................58
Woodstock International........................www.woodstockinternational.com ....................C2
FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM 71
OUT OF THE WOODWORK
Scenes from the 2017 European Benchmarking
Technology Tour, hosted by Stiles Machinery.
72 WWW.WOODSHOPNEWS.COM FEBRUARY 2018
A woodworker’s tour
O
ver 40 manufacturing profession- 120 years, attendees observed the latest trends
als from North America participat- in materials, colors, textures and finishes.
ed in the European Benchmarking “Homag Bohrsysteme in Herzebrock, Ger-
Technology Tour, held last Octo- many, was another favorite for tour attendees
ber and hosted by Stiles Machinery. where they experienced the latest in CNC ma-
The tour illustrated innovative, efficient and chining technology,” Stiles said. “In addition
productive manufacturing practices, accord- to the tours, attendees had the opportunity to
ing to Stiles. network and gain valuable insights from peers
“The forward-thinking solutions experi- facing similar challenges and the solutions
enced throughout the weeklong event allowed they have implemented to increase efficiency
participants to benchmark their own opera- and productivity.”
tions against other leading companies, giving For news about upcoming tours, visit www.
them a competitive advantage in the market- stilesmachinery.com.
place and equipping them with valu-
able knowledge and tools that will 60 Grit Rough humor by Steve Spiro
directly affect the overall success of
their businesses for years to come,”
the company said in a statement.
The tour included visits to nine store
fixture, component and kitchen cabi-
net manufacturers in Germany and
the Netherlands. Attendees learned
about the latest advancements in panel
processing and batch-size one-produc-
tion strategies, for example.
“This exposure gave attendees the
opportunity to observe how global
trendsetters are optimizing their op-
erations and process flows by utiliz-
ing best practices, innovative soft-
ware and advanced technology,”
Stiles said.
Highlights of the tour included a
stop at included Nobilia, the world’s
largest kitchen manufacturer, and
Sedus Systems, a highly automated
facility. At Poggenpohl, a manufac- THE OTHER GUYS IN THE SHOP
turer of high-end kitchens for over LAUGHED, BUT MEL LOVED HIS MOTHER
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