Replies

1. 
   jako17 | Aug 30, 2006 02:10pm | #1

   It is safer generally to run over the top of a cutter, but with a power feeder either is ok as the feeder ensures that there is no chance of the panel lifting

2. 
   charlesm | Aug 30, 2006 02:54pm | #2

   They are designed to run with the panel face up and the cutter on top feeding right to left. If you can reverse the shaper you can turn it upside down and feed left to right.
   Charles M

   Freud America, Inc.

   
   

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   Edited 8/30/2006 11:58 am ET by CharlesM

3. 
   mudman | Aug 30, 2006 06:55pm | #3

   As mentioned it is safer to feed the work over the cutter. If you are working a very challenging grain and have to cut end grain (like on an arched top door panel) reversing the cutter and the shaper will allow you to cut from both directions so you are always cutting with the grain. However unless you have two shapers and two identical cutters set up at the same time it is a major PITA to go back and forth, especially if you have a whole kitchen to do.

   Mike

   Pardon my spelling,

   Mike

   Make sure that your next project is beyond your skill and requires tools you don't have. You won't regret it.

1. 
   charlesm | Aug 30, 2006 07:05pm | #4

   The safety factor on this issue is a matter for debate that I think exceeds the scope of this forum. That aside, to run the cutter under under the panel requires an opening larger than the cutter - often greater than 5" - so most shaper raised panel cutters are designed to pass over the panel when run counterclockwise.
   Charles M

   Freud America, Inc.

4. 
   gb93433 | Aug 30, 2006 07:43pm | #5

   Doing that work by hand I would always run the cutter underneath because if the wood slips the cutter will remove more material and may create a vert dangerous situation. However if it is a situation where the panel is held by a hold down device in a piece of machinery then it really makes little difference. I try to think about what is the worst case scenario should something unforeseen happen.

1. 
   maxp | Aug 31, 2006 02:32am | #6

   Thanks everyone fo your replies,

    I a year or so ago did a kitchens worth of panels face up -underneath the cutter and remember it to be a little frightening- Getting ready to do another kitchen and just started wondering if I tempted fate or was correct-thanks again

   Edited 8/30/2006 7:33 pm ET by maxp