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Russell and Jesse Hartley
Posted on Wednesday, April 20th, 2011 at 10:29 pm.
Russell and Jesse Hartley are Two of my Heroes
Russell and Jesse Hartley are saw filers with Anthony Forest Products in Louisiana.
I was down there a few years ago giving a speech and Russell came up to me and tried to describe an idea he had that he thought was worth sharing. This was in the middle of one of the meetings and Russell is really popular so we kept getting interrupted and he finally said he was going to send me a video.
The video he sent me is now our brazing video part two.
Russell filmed his son and coworker, Jesse, brazing saws. The Hartleys do a really good job as saw filers. They have zero tip loss and they have truly minimal tip breakage. They’re the kind of people that think things through and are always looking for a better way to do it.
The method they came up with is an unusual method and doesn’t work everywhere but it does work beautifully for them.
The Hartley’s were big enough to put what they did out there for comment and criticism because they thought it was for the good of the industry and they wanted to help others in the industry.
I do these blogs and videos to share what little I know. Over the last 30 years there have been a lot of calls from people who had a huge problem and I knew the answer. And the answer has almost always been something simple and straightforward. But it was simple because I already knew it. It may have taken me a great long time to figure it out.
I truly do think that the industry needs much more of this sort of information sharing. It needs people who really know what they’re doing, sharing that information.
Some people have tried sharing information and try teaching and they’ve ended up with a lot of criticism. So, in my opinion, it takes an exceptional person to stand up and make a video knowing that there is going to be criticism.
And that is why the Hartleys, Russell and Jesse, are two of my heroes.
Why You Need A Digital Microscope
Posted on Tuesday, April 19th, 2011 at 6:52 pm.
Why You Need A Digital Microscope
Dino-Lite vs. ProScope
Here are two digital microscopes. On the left is the ProScope. In this one you change the white cones to change the magnification. On the right is the Dino-Lite. The Dino-Lite comes with a lens attached and you move the wheel on the side to increase the magnification.
The ProScope set up, as shown above with an extra lens, is about $400 and the Dino-Lite was about $150. I’ve been using the ProScope successfully for years and just got the Dino-Lite but I like the Dino-Like much better. You don’t see quite as much area but it is much easier to use and considerably less money.
Below is a simple, easy report illustrating what you really need a small, simple microscope like this if you make tools. The simple analysis will help the company make much better blades and save them money.
There is a wide variety all over the Internet. Many under $100.
Too much pressure when brazing
Saw Blade Analysis
Tell Taiwan that they are using too much pressure when they seat the saw tips. The red line in these pictures is the copper shim. It is too close to the carbide. There should be a gap of maybe 0.001.5 to 0.002” between the red copper and the tungsten carbide.
This would make for a stronger blade with more impact resistance which would be especially important in cutting man-made materials such as Melamine.
Note also that using this much pressure forces braze alloy out of the joint and shortens diamond wheel life. Grinding through braze alloy is hard on diamond wheels.
April is Collet Month!
Posted on Thursday, April 14th, 2011 at 10:52 pm.
It’s Time to Replace Those Collets!
One of our vendors, Southeast Tool, is educating everyone on the importance of replacing your CNC collets. One of the most common questions and concerns that turns up at the Southeast Tool factory is from broken tools.
If the shanks of your tools match the picture to the left, it is past time to replace them. To prevent the breakage of collets, they should be replaced two to three times a year. Once a collet has already been broken, the only way to fix them is to replace them. To avoid an emergency in your shop, Carbide Processors along with Southeast Tool strongly recommend maintaining your CNC collets to prevent serious breakage.
For newer woodworkers, or those that may be less familiar with what a collet really is, essentially a collet holds the router bit in place on the router. Typically, American bits measure 0.25 inches or 0.5 inch where as European bits measure 6 or 8 mm. The exterior of the collets are hexagonal in shape to allow woodworkers the ability to tighten or loosen them as they see fit by using a generic torque wrench. Additionally, the interior of all collets contains threads providing easier accessibility so that it can be attached properly to the motor arbor.
Like a lot of things, equipment that is used everyday needs to be maintained to prevent serious repercussions. Two specific examples come to mind, cars and computers. We all know how important it is to perform routine maintenance on our cars and computers and we know that if we don’t do so, the shelf life of the car diminishes drastically and our computers are more at risk for the dreadful “blue screen of death.”
I am using these two items as examples because I am recalling a conversation the President and I with our IT guru earlier in the week about the importance of preventative maintenance. It seems to fit in with the theme and the message we are trying to convey to all of you: replace those collets before, you too, have to experience an emergency.
Hollow Mortising Chisels and Bits
Posted on Wednesday, April 13th, 2011 at 3:35 am.
Hollow Mortising Chisels and Bits
USA Made – Southeast Tool
Hollow Mortising Chisel Bits are for making square mortises in one stroke and oblong mortises with each succeeding stroke. The Hollow Mortising Chisel Bit requires a matching Mortising Chisel.
Chisel features heavy-duty blade construction and shallow points for optimal durability and precision. Complementary bit design features a double flute, two cutting spurs, and no center point.
Warranty Information
Manufacturer’s Warranty and our own 100% satisfaction guarantee
Hollow Mortising Chisels and Bits
Please note: Chisels and bits are sold separately unless other wise specified
| Cutting Diameter |
Shoulder Diameter |
Mortising Depth |
Overall Length |
Material | Description | Brand | Part # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 1/8″ | 3/4″ | 3″ | 5 1/2″ | – | Hollow Chisel | Southeast Tool | SEHMC750** |
| 1/2″ | 3/4″ | 3″ | 9″ | Carbon Tool Steel | Chisel Bit | Southeast Tool | SECB-34** |
| 1/2″ | 3/4″ | 3″ | 9″ | High Speed Steel | Chisel Bit | Southeast Tool | SECB-34HS** |
| 1/2″ | 3/4″ | 3″ | 9″ | Carbide Tipped | Chisel Bit | Southeast Tool | SECB-34CT** |
| 1/4″ | 5/8″ | – | 5 1/4″ | – | Hollow Chisel Assy | Southeast Tool | SEHMC250* |
| 3/8″ | 5/8″ | – | 5 1/2″ | – | Hollow Chisel Assy | Southeast Tool | SEHMC375* |
| 1/2″ | 5/8″ | – | 5 1/2″ | – | Hollow Chisel Assy | Southeast Tool | SEHMC500* |
| 5/8″ | 3/4″ | – | 6″ | – | Hollow Chisel Assy | Southeast Tool | SEHMC625* |
*Imported – Both chisel and bit are included
**US made – Order hollow chisel and bit separately
Tenryu Brush Cutter Blade
Posted on Tuesday, April 12th, 2011 at 2:44 am.
Tenryu GR-25536 – Brush Cutter, Carbide Tipped, Saw Blade
Tenryu GR-25536 – Brush Cutter, Carbide Tipped, Saw Blade
Retail: $38.00
Your Price: $28.23
You save $ 9.77
Note: Product price good for 30 days. Call to ask about current price. 253-476-1338
Product Description
Brush Cutter saw blade 10×36 GR-25536
10” dia., 36 teeth, 1” arbor, ATB grind, 0.089” kerf, 5 degree rake.
For cutting thick brush on a gas weed whacker or trimmer.
The Brush Cutter series is a high quality line of carbide tipped blades for cutting brush, saplings and thick grasses with gas powered, brushcutter/weed trimmer machines.
Designed for professional use by land clearing teams and landscapers; these blades are LONG LASTING and FAST CUTTING. They eliminate the need for wasteful and inefficient nylon string and far outlast conventional steel blades or plastic blades.
Each blade features:
1. Individually hammer-tensioned steel plates for true run
2. Specially designed inserted tooth for excellent tip retention
3. Tooth geometry and carbide hardness selected for effective cutting under high-impact conditions.
Warranty Information
Manufacturer’s Warranty and our own 100% satisfaction guarantee
800 346-8274
Woodpeckers 1281R – Precision Square – 12×8
Posted on Sunday, April 10th, 2011 at 11:18 pm.
Woodpeckers 1281R – Precision Square – 12×8
Woodpeckers 1281R - Precision Square - 12x8 in case
Retail: $79.99
Your Price: $69.99
You save: $10.00
Note: Product price good for 30 days. Call to ask about current price. 253-476-1338
Product Description
Woodpeckers 1281R – Precision Square – 12 x 8
One of the unique features of Woodpeckers Precision Aluminum Square is how it is constructed. Both the blade and base are machined from a single aluminum block which results in a far higher degree of square then what is possible with the typical two piece design. Both handles and the square are then fitted together with two chrome hardened steel pins which ensures bullet proof rigidity and alignment.
Unlike many of today’s mass produced, molded or stamped tools, Woodpeckers utilizes its own in house CNC manufacturing capabilities to craft these fine quality tools which you’ll be proud to own and pass on for generations.
Each square is anodized for durability and laser engraved with inch scale markings for general marking and measuring reference.
Woodpeckers 1281R - Precision Square
But by far the squares greatest attribute is how it can help you craft higher quality, more professional cabinetry and furniture.
Each square includes a custom fitted block which holds the square, protects it from scratches and dings and can be wall mounted for easy access.
Guaranteed Accuracy
We’re so confident that the Precision Aluminum Squares are the best, most accurate square you’ll own, they are covered by a Lifetime Guarantee to stay square to within a minimum of .001 or we will replace it. If for any reason, your square is not, simply return it to us for immediate repair or replacement.
Warranty Information
Manufacturer’s Warranty and our own 100% satisfaction guarantee
Woodpeckers 1281R - Precision Square - 12x8 feature
800 346-8274
Wiha 31390 Insulated Socket Set
Posted on Sunday, April 10th, 2011 at 10:52 pm.
Wiha 31390 insulated 13 pc socket set
Wiha 31390 1/4-Inch Drive Socket Set
Note: Product price good for 30 days. Call to ask about current price. 253-476-1338
10 Sockets, 2 Extensions, 1 Ratchet
Wiha 31390 thirteen piece insulated 1/4″ drive socket set, inch. CV steel forged, oil hardened sockets. Insulated after EN/IEC 60900. Set includes 3/16, 7/32, 1/4, 9/32, 5/16, 11/32, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16. 12854 1/4″ x 50mm extension bar, 12855 1/4″ x 100mm extension bar, 12851 1/4″ ratchet 140mm. Comes in molded storage box.
Wiha 31390 insulated 13 pc socket set -2
Technical Details
* Insulated 1000 volt rated 10,000 volt tested
* Meets ASTM F1505, EN/IEC 60900, NFPA-70E
* Professional series long life insulated 1/4 drive
* Double covered insulation red over yellow
* Guaranteed quality, made in Germany
* Manufacturer’s warranty and our own, 100% satisfaction Guarantee
Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
800 346-8274
Saw Blade Quality
Posted on Saturday, April 9th, 2011 at 4:04 am.
Solving quality problems in the tool industry
There seem to be two major problems contributing to quality issues in the tool industry.
I would classify these as lack of specifications and lack of proper measurement instruments.
A week or so ago I put up our angle chart. It has had a funny response. We have given away a bunch of copies and people are very appreciative. A couple people told us that they meant to do something similar someday.
A much larger percentage had never thought of doing a chart like this.
Several people have asked for similar charts and data. And we’re working on those.
We’re also working on several instruments to make it much easier to actually measure angles and dimensions on saw blades.
I will certainly let you know when we have something that is proven enough that I feel like talking about it.
If you have any ideas charts, instruments, or techniques that would make it easier to inspect saw blades, router bits or any other tool then I would very much like to hear about them.
The tool industry very badly needs better information and better instruments. Currently it seems to be the standard side dial indicator in the 1930s, Art Deco design or a $15,000, computerized, television, inspection system.
What I envision are simple gauges that allow a person to easily determine accuracy and quality on finished tools.
Tom Walz
Carbide Processors
800 346-8274
Router Bit Set
Posted on Saturday, April 9th, 2011 at 3:45 am.
Router Bit Set – Whiteside 605 for Incra Dovetails
Router Bit Set – Whiteside 605 for Incra Dovetails
Note: Product price good for 30 days. Call to ask about current price. 253-476-1338
This is the genuine, official router bit set for Incra equipment. It is made by Whiteside Machine with the permission of and cooperation of Incra.
Whiteside Machine is regularly ranked number one by Fine Woodworking magazine for quality of cut and for best value overall.
This set is the industrial quality set with half inch shank. It is the full 6 piece Incra set.
Product Description: Incra Dovetail Sets, 1/2 Shank, 6 Piece Incra Set – (Dovetails; 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, Plus 1/4 and 3/8 Box Joint Bits) – Whiteside 605
The set comes in a plastic box cushioned on heavy plastic foam. In addition each bit has the carbide cutting edges protected by an easily removable, thick, wax coating.
Retail: $110.00
Your Guaranteed Lowest Price:$88.00
(You save $22.00)
* American made for the American woodworker
* Made from solid alloy steel with Nickel, Chrome and Vanadium
* Precision ground for proper balance at high rpms which means smooth cuts at full production
* Made with thick carbide for extra sharpenings
* Uses the highest quality American made micrograin carbide for greater strength, resistance to fracturing and much longer cutting life.
Warranty Information
Manufacturer’s Warranty and our own 100% satisfaction guarantee
www.carbideprocessors.com
sales@carbideprocessors.com
800 346-8274
CNC Router Machines Torque Wrench
Posted on Thursday, April 7th, 2011 at 10:37 pm.
CNC Router Kits Torque Wrench
- CNC router kits torque wrench
Torque Wrench – Southeast Tool SE200TH
Retail:$492.77
Your Price:$351.98
(You save $140.79)
Note: Product price good for 30 days. Call to ask about current price. 253-476-1338
A torque wrench is absolutely indispensable to get the best out of your CNC router. If you are too tight you risk damaging the machine and if you’re too loose you don’t get the precision you need.
Torque wrenches are precision measuring instruments. They don’t stay calibrated forever. Fluctuations in temperature, normal use, the occasional drop all affect the performance.
Torque wrenches also wear out. Even when they’re made with the finest materials, as ours are, you still have the materials rubbing against each other and eventually that wear is going to show up.
If you have an old torque wrench or torque wrench that won’t stay calibrated anymore that torque wrench we offer is an excellent product. It is very precise and reasonably priced.
Check your current torque wrench and, if it needs replacing, buy one of these.
If you’re adding more CNC machines you might consider having a separate torque wrench at each machine. It is an extremely small investment and greatly increases the chances that the operator will use it each time they should.
Product Description
Torque Wrench – Southeast Tool SE200TH; 30-150 ft/lbs, 16.5 Length, 16mm round spigot.
Warranty Information
Manufacturer’s Warranty and our own 100% satisfaction guarantee
