Conveyor Belt, Drive Belts | Powermatic DDS-237, DDS-225 guide

Conveyor Belt

Conveyor belt tension and tracking adjustments may occasionally be necessary during break-in and normal operation to compensate for belt stretching. Adjust the tension of the conveyor belt by turning the knobs (Fig. 20) clockwise to increase tension, counterclockwise to decrease tension. The belt should have just enough tension to move the material without slipping on the drive roller.

Do not over tighten the convey- or belt. Excessive tension will cause stretching and premature wear of the belt.

After tensioning the belt, turn on the machine and run the conveyor in the forward direction at the fastest speed setting. Watch for a tendency of the conveyor belt to drift to one side of the conveyor. If this happens, correct as follows:

1.On the side of the conveyor toward which the belt is drifting, tighten the knob 1/4 turn (Fig. 20) to shift the belt to the opposite direction.

2.On the side of the conveyor away from which the belt is drifting, loosen the knob.

3.After adjusting each take-up knob, allow time for the belt to react to the adjustments before proceeding further. Continue this adjustment until the conveyor belt is tracking properly in the center of the table. Try to avoid over- adjustments.

Drive Belts

Check the tension of the drive belts by squeezing the belts together in the middle (between the motor and drum pulleys as shown in Fig. 21) with moderate pressure. They are properly tensioned when there is approximately 1/4” deflection.

If adjustment is necessary, loosen the hex nuts (Fig. 22) and raise or lower the motor plate as needed. (For example, to lower the motor plate and increase tension, loosen the bottom nuts and tighten the top nuts.) When finished, tighten the nuts.

If replacing the belts, always replace them in matched sets of the proper size.

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

DDS-225, DDS-237 specifications

The Powermatic DDS-237 and DDS-225 are two advanced drill presses that have been engineered for woodworkers who demand precision and versatility in their projects. These machines are part of Powermatic’s commitment to providing high-quality tools that cater to both professional and hobbyist woodworkers.

One of the main features of the DDS-237 is its robust construction. With a heavy-duty cast iron base and column, this drill press offers exceptional stability, reducing vibrations during operation which leads to accurate drilling. The DDS-225 follows suit, providing a durable design that ensures reliability even in the most challenging work environments.

The DDS-237 comes equipped with a powerful 1 HP motor, offering variable speed control ranging from 250 to 3000 RPM, allowing users to select the perfect speed for various materials. This feature is particularly advantageous for woodworkers who work with different species of wood or even metal and plastic. The DDS-225, on the other hand, features a slightly less powerful motor but maintains the same level of versatility with multiple speed settings.

Another significant aspect of these drill presses is their user-friendly interface and adjustments. Both models boast an easy-to-read digital depth gauge, enabling precise depth adjustments. This feature is crucial for applications requiring repetitive drilling depths, such as doweling or creating mortises.

Both models also incorporate innovative technologies aimed at enhancing user safety and convenience. The patented Quick-Release chuck system allows for rapid and easy tool changes without the need for additional tools, saving valuable time during setup and operation. Furthermore, the built-in work light illuminates the workspace, improving visibility during intricate drilling tasks.

Dust collection is also a fundamental aspect of both models, with integrated ports designed to minimize debris in the workspace, creating a healthier and cleaner working environment.

The Powermatic DDS-237 and DDS-225 are not just machines but essential tools that combine power, precision, and safety. Whether for professional use or serious woodworking enthusiasts, these drill presses are designed to meet the demands of any project with reliability and efficiency.