Powermatic 15HH 15" Helical Head Planer - PM9-1791213

Powermatic 15HH 15" Helical Head Planer

The ability to accurately dimension wood with parallel faces is crucial to virtually any woodworking task. Producing an ultra smooth, tear out-free surface at the same time is just as important. The Powermatic 15HH has been designed to handle these tasks with the accuracy, durability and repeatability you need.

Built around a fully enclosed, welded steel base cabinet, the Powermatic 15HH uses numerous precisely machined iron castings to insure durability and precise, repeatable operation. A heavy-duty caster system built into the base makes moving the 517- lb planer around the shop easy. A foot-operated brake locks the casters to keep it stationary during use.

A powerful 3hp (totally enclosed fan cooled) motor is mounted within the base cabinet. Power is transmitted to the fixed cutterhead assembly by three v-belts that turn precision-machined pulleys. A full-length belt cover is easily removed for maintenance by spinning off a pair of finger-operated knobs. The motor is operated and protected by a true magnetic switch mounted on the head assembly within easy reach.

The Byrd cutterhead is made from a billet of exotic “stress proof” steel that ensures unrivaled durability. This cutterhead is extremely effective thanks to its 74 carbide inserts arranged in spiral-shaped rows. The inserts have a 4” radius ground into them and are mounted so they approach the wood at a 14° angle. That creates a true shear cut that eliminates much of the impact and the resulting fiber disturbance other cutterhead designs deliver to the wood. This cutterhead is also quiet - so quiet, in fact, that many users don’t think it is cutting until they see the results.

The Powermatic 15HH has two material feed rates –20 FPM (Feet Per Minute) used primarily for rough dimensioning and 16 FPM to increase the cuts-per-inch to create a silky-smooth surface. A push/pull knob shifts between the feed rates on the fly. The rollers are driven by a gear and chain drive with an automatic chain tensioner, housed in a cast iron case. The gear section runs in an industrial style oil bath for maximum control over long-term wear.

To make moving the stock from one side of the POWERMATIC 15HH to the other for repeat cuts easier, Powermatic added a pair of material rollers to the cutterhead. The iron rollers are spaced above the cutterhead, putting the often-heavy stock at a comfortable 43-1/2” above the floor.

An all-metal dust hood comes with the 15HH that creates a short, direct path for the debris directly from the cutterhead. The hood terminates with a 4”-diameter port that is angled to the side so the dust collector hose does not interfere with the stock as it exits. A 500-600 CFM dust collector is recommended.

Features

• The helical cutterhead with 74, four-sided carbide knife inserts provides smoother, quieter cutting and finer finish than conventional systems
• Three V-belts transfer maximum power to the cutterhead
• Lockable built-in caster system allows for mobility in the shop
• Serrated steel infeed roller and smooth steel outfeed roller allow for 1/8" maximum depth of cut and trouble free operation
• Two speed gearbox features automatic chain tensioner
• Steel top-mounted return rollers speed repetitive cuts
• Large, precision ground cast iron table and extensions provide maximum workpiece support
• Large cast iron handwheel positions table quickly and easily
• Angled dust chute with 4" port positions collection hose away from the work area while providing efficient chip and dust collection

Specification

What Our Experts Think

• Superior Cutting Quality: The Powermatic 15HH 15" Helical Head Planer features a helical cutterhead with 72 four-sided carbide inserts, ensuring smooth, precise cuts with minimal tear-out.
• Powerful Performance: Powered by a robust motor, this planer effortlessly handles dense hardwoods and large workpieces, making it suitable for both professional and serious hobbyist woodworkers.
• Quiet Operation: The helical head design reduces noise significantly compared to traditional straight-knife planers, providing a quieter and more comfortable working environment.
• Durable & Low Maintenance: Built with durable materials, the helical head's carbide inserts last longer and require less frequent replacement, offering a low-maintenance solution for high-output projects.
• User-Friendly Features: Easy-to-adjust depth control and a smooth feed system ensure a user-friendly experience, allowing for consistent results across a variety of projects

Q&A

Q: What is the Powermatic 15HH 15" Helical Head Planer - PM9-1791213?
A: The Powermatic 15HH is a 15-inch helical head planer designed for smooth and precise planing. It features a helical cutter head for improved cut quality and quieter operation, ideal for professional woodworking.

Q: What is the advantage of the helical cutter head on the Powermatic 15HH?
A: The helical cutter head provides smoother cuts, less noise, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional straight-knife planers. It also reduces snipe and minimizes tear-out.

Q: What is the motor power of the Powermatic 15HH 15" Planer?
A: The Powermatic 15HH features a powerful 3HP motor, providing consistent and efficient performance for planing various wood types.

Q: What is the cutting capacity of the Powermatic 15HH?
A: The planer offers a 15-inch wide cutting capacity, making it suitable for a variety of wood pieces, from small projects to larger boards.

Q: How does the Powermatic 15HH improve wood quality?
A: The helical cutter head ensures a finer, smoother finish with less tear-out, making the planer ideal for achieving a high-quality surface on hardwoods and other materials.

Q: Is the Powermatic 15HH suitable for heavy-duty use?
A: Yes, with its 3HP motor and durable construction, the Powermatic 15HH is built for heavy-duty tasks, including continuous use in a professional workshop.

Q: What is the feed rate of the Powermatic 15HH Planer?
A: The planer features a feed rate of up to 20 feet per minute, providing efficient material removal for a fast, clean finish.

Q: Does the Powermatic 15HH come with any dust collection features?
A: Yes, the Powermatic 15HH is equipped with a built-in dust collection system to minimize airborne sawdust and keep the work area clean.

Q: What maintenance is required for the Powermatic 15HH?
A: Regular maintenance includes checking and replacing the cutter knives, cleaning the dust collection system, and ensuring the planer is properly lubricated for smooth operation.

Q: Is the Powermatic 15HH easy to operate?
A: Yes, the Powermatic 15HH is designed for easy setup and operation with adjustable height, precision controls, and a user-friendly interface for efficient planing.

Maintenance Tips

• Pre-Use: Ensure the feed rollers and knives are clean, check for any debris, and verify the infeed and outfeed tables are level.
• After Use: Clean the planer thoroughly, removing wood chips and dust from the knives, tables, and internal components.
• Weekly: Lubricate moving parts like the height adjustment mechanism, inspect feed rollers for wear, and check knife sharpness.
• Monthly: Inspect and clean the helical cutterhead, check for any loose fasteners, and ensure proper alignment of the knives.
• Annually: Replace any worn or damaged knives, clean motor air vents, and inspect the entire machine for wear and tear.
• Storage: Store in a dry, clean area to prevent rust buildup, and consider removing the knives during long-term storage.
• Safety: Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear during operation