Axminster AP310SPT Planer Thicknesser
The Axminster Professional AP310SPT Planer Thicknesser is a high-quality woodworking machine manufactured by Axminster Tools, designed specifically for professional woodworking environments that require precision machining capabilities for timber. This robust machine combines two essential woodworking functions: surface planing (for flattening and smoothing wood surfaces) and thicknessing (for reducing timber to uniform thicknesses).
The AP310SPT is positioned within Axminster's Professional range, indicating it is built for heavy daily usage in professional workshops. It features substantial construction primarily using cast iron and welded steel components, ensuring stability, durability, and vibration reduction during operation. The machine weighs approximately 272 kg, further contributing to its stability during use.
What distinguishes the AP310SPT from standard planer thicknessers is its spiral cutting block technology, which represents a significant advancement over traditional straight-knife cutter blocks. The machine utilizes a four-row spiral cutter block with fifty-six 15mm square solid tungsten carbide cutters arranged in a helical pattern, each with four usable cutting edges. This design produces a superior finish on workpieces while offering numerous operational advantages including reduced noise, improved chip extraction, and significant power savings.
The AP310SPT is engineered with a focus on precision, featuring long cast iron surfacing tables that are fully adjustable to prevent "sniping" (unwanted deeper cuts at the beginning or end of workpieces). The machine provides a maximum planing width of 310mm and can handle thicknessing operations for materials up to 225mm in height. With a robust 3.0 kW motor powering the cutterblock at 4,800 RPM, the AP310SPT delivers professional-grade performance for demanding woodworking applications.
Similar to the AP310SPT, Axminster also produces the AT310SPT model under their Trade series, which shares many characteristics but is positioned slightly differently in the market. While they appear similar in specifications, the Professional series carries Axminster's most comprehensive warranty and is designed for the most demanding workshop environments.
Axminster Tools backs the Professional AP310SPT with a comprehensive three-year guarantee, reflecting the company's confidence in the machine's build quality and performance reliability. This warranty covers all parts and labor for the first year, with some exclusions for consumable components in the second and third years.
Technical Specifications
The Axminster Professional AP310SPT Planer Thicknesser operates on 230V power and requires a 16-amp supply. Manufacturers recommend using a C-type circuit breaker for this machine due to its power requirements. The AP310SPT is powered by a robust 3.0 kW motor, providing sufficient power for demanding professional woodworking tasks.
At the heart of the machine is a 70 mm diameter cutterblock that rotates at 4,800 RPM. This cutter block is equipped with 56 tungsten carbide spur cutters arranged in a helical pattern, generating 14,400 cuts per minute. Each cutter is 15 mm square and features four usable edges, dramatically extending the service life compared to traditional straight knives.
The AP310SPT offers a maximum planing width of 310 mm, allowing for the processing of relatively wide stock. When used for surface planing, the machine can remove up to 4.0 mm of material in a single pass. In thicknessing mode, it accommodates materials up to 225 mm in height and can remove up to 2.0 mm per pass.
The feed system operates at a constant speed of 5 m/min, providing consistent material movement that contributes to an even finish. This system is controlled via a power feed engagement lever that allows for easy operation.
For dust extraction, the AP310SPT features a 100 mm extraction outlet and requires a minimum extraction airflow of 1,500 cubic meters per hour to maintain optimal performance and a clean working environment.
The machine's overall dimensions are 1,390 mm (length) × 930 mm (width) × 1,350 mm (height), with a net weight of 272 kg. The substantial weight contributes to the machine's stability during operation, reducing vibration and improving finished results.
In terms of noise levels, the AP310SPT has a sound pressure level of 89 dB(A) with an uncertainty factor of 1.5 dB. While this is lower than many comparable machines with standard cutter blocks (particularly when processing certain timber types), appropriate hearing protection is still recommended during extended operation.
The machine includes a digital height adjustment readout for the thicknessing function, enabling quick and precise thickness settings and reducing setup time between operations.
Design and Construction
The Axminster Professional AP310SPT Planer Thicknesser features robust construction that prioritizes stability, durability, and precision. The machine is built on a rigid frame with a welded steel chassis, which significantly aids in reducing vibration during operation, resulting in a more comfortable woodworking experience and improved finish quality.
At the core of the AP310SPT's design are its cast iron tables, chosen specifically for their ability to maintain flatness and accuracy throughout repeated use. The surface planing tables have a combined length of 1,380 mm, providing ample support for longer workpieces. These tables are independently adjustable relative to the cutter block, a feature that helps prevent the common issue of "sniping" (unwanted deeper cuts at the beginning or end of a workpiece). Both tables are hinged independently and include up-stop latches that hold them securely in position when the machine is configured for thicknessing operations.
The fence system is another critical design element of the AP310SPT. It features a large solid fence made of rigid alloy that supports workpieces securely during surface planing operations. The fence is easily adjustable and includes preset stops at both 90° and 45°, facilitating accurate angle cutting. When not in use, the fence can be stored on brackets mounted at the rear of the machine, optimizing workshop space efficiency.
The AP310SPT employs a single lift table system, allowing users to switch between planing and thicknessing operations quickly and easily. This design feature saves time during setup as the fence can remain in place during the transition between operations.
For dust management, the machine incorporates an efficient extraction hood that pivots to accommodate both planing and thicknessing modes. This hood connects to a standard 100 mm dust extraction outlet and is electrically interlocked for safety, preventing operation unless properly positioned. The extraction system helps reduce airborne dust, protecting both the operator's health and the workshop environment.
The thicknessing table features a steel feed roller system that ensures consistent material feed at a rate of 5 m/min. This controlled feed rate helps achieve an even finish across the entire workpiece. Additionally, the AP310SPT includes lifting handles designed to facilitate safer movement of the machine when necessary, despite its substantial 272 kg weight.
Overall, the design and construction of the AP310SPT reflect its professional-grade classification, with particular attention paid to stability, precision, ease of use, and safety.