Powermatic 31A manual

Hand safety. Keep fingers and hands away from the belt or disc. DO NOT clear sawdust from the table with the hands; use a brush. On small or thin parts, use a push stick or jig to keep the hands from contacting the abrasive. If using the fence, avoid getting fingers too close to the fence to prevent pinching. Never wear gloves while operating the sander.

Machine capacity. Do not try to force the sander to remove material faster than the power available from the drive motor. The use of light pressure on either disc or belt sanding and moving the part back and forth will maximize belt or disc life, help to minimize the chances of an accident and keep the force within the capacity of the drive motor.

Machine adjustments. Make all machine adjustments with power off except belt tracking. Belt tracking should be checked manually before starting the sander, but final adjustment may have to be made after starting up the sander.

Table safety. Be sure the table is locked in position before placing stock on it and that its front edge is within 1/16” or less, of the disc or belt.

Job completion. If the operator leaves the machine area for any reason, the sander should be turned "off" and the abrasive belt and disc should come to a complete stop before his/her departure. In addition, if the operation is complete, he should clean the sander and the work area. Never clean the sander with power "on" and never use the hands to clear sawdust and debris; use a brush.

Replacement parts. Use only Powermatic or factory authorized replacement parts and accessories; otherwise the warranty and guarantee is null and void.

Misuse. Do not use this Powermatic sander for other than its intended use. If used for other purposes, Powermatic disclaims any real or implied warranty and holds itself harmless for any injury or damage which may result from that use.

If you are not thoroughly familiar with the operation of sanders, obtain advice from your supervisor, instructor or other qualified person.

Drugs, alcohol, medication. Do not operate this machine while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any medication.

Health hazards. Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling and other construction activities contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:

*Lead from lead-based paint.

*Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products.

*Arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.

Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals, work in a well-ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are specifically designed to filter out microscopic particles.

Prevent unauthorized use: When the machine is not in use, lock out the switch to prevent accidental or unauthorized starting. To do this, either remove the switch key and store in a place inaccessible to children and others not qualified to use the machine; or purchase and insert a padlock through the hole in the start switch.

Familiarize yourself with the following safety notices used in this manual:

This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in minor injury and/or possible machine damage.

This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in serious or possibly even fatal injury.

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31A specifications

The Powermatic 31A is a high-performance 12" planer that has become a favorite among woodworkers and craft enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its powerful features and robust design, the 31A stands out in the woodworking community for its ability to deliver precision and efficiency in planing wood.

One of the key features of the Powermatic 31A is its 3 HP motor, which provides ample power for handling a wide range of hardwoods and softwoods. The motor is designed to run smoothly and quietly, reducing vibration during operation, which is essential for achieving fine finishes. The combination of power and stability allows users to tackle even the most challenging jobs with ease.

The machine is equipped with a 12" wide cutter head that utilizes four high-speed steel knives, which are known for their superior cutting capabilities. This allows for a smooth, even finish and reduces the amount of sanding required afterward. The adjustable infeed and outfeed tables are another notable feature, providing support for long workpieces and ensuring accuracy throughout the planing process.

In addition to its mechanical prowess, the Powermatic 31A boasts a quick elevation mechanism that allows users to make rapid adjustments to the height of the cutter head. This feature enhances efficiency and allows for easy transitions between different thicknesses of wood. The inclusion of a hinged cover also allows for quick access to the cutter head for maintenance and knife replacement, minimizing downtime.

The built-in dust collection system is another notable characteristic of the Powermatic 31A. This system helps to keep the workspace clean and safe by efficiently removing sawdust and debris, thereby ensuring that the work environment remains tidy and reducing the risk of respiratory issues caused by wood dust.

Moreover, the heavy-duty cast iron construction of the Powermatic 31A enhances its stability during operation, contributing to a better cutting experience. The robust design also ensures longevity, making it a reliable choice for both professional woodworkers and hobbyists.

With precision engineering and advanced technologies, the Powermatic 31A melds power and functionality, making it an indispensable tool for anyone serious about woodworking. Whether you are milling lumber for furniture-making or crafting intricate wood designs, this planer delivers in performance, making it a top-tier choice in its class.