Important Disclaimer: This article references a model that is no longer in production. Please note that the availability of replacement parts or discussed accessories is not guaranteed.
Can I cut metal or other non-wood materials with your planers?
No. While Grizzly planers are capable of physically cutting a variety of materials, they are designed exclusively for natural wood.
Using a planer to cut metal, composites, or other non-wood materials can:
- Pose a serious safety risk to the operator or bystanders
- Damage the machine and significantly reduce its lifespan
- Void the product warranty
Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for safe and appropriate use.
How do I know what size motor I need for a planer?
Motor size depends on three main factors:
- Average stock width
- Wood type (e.g., hardwood vs softwood)
- Frequency and intensity of use
In general:
- Any Grizzly planer can cut hardwoods up to its maximum width if the feed rate is slow enough, but too slow can cause ripples and tear-out.
- If the feed rate is too fast and causes the motor to bog down, it can overheat and suffer permanent damage.
- A larger motor can handle wider, harder material more efficiently without overheating.
Practical guideline:
- A 1.5 HP motor can repeatedly cut 6" wide hardwoods at an aggressive feed rate without bogging down.
- A 3 HP motor can handle roughly twice that width under the same conditions.
Choose a motor size that matches your typical workload to avoid unnecessary strain on the machine.
I see some machines listed as 110V, 115V, or 120V. Aren’t these the same? Why not just use one standard across all listings?
Yes and no. These voltages all refer to the same general power range and are interchangeable for most consumers. They differ mainly due to regional standards:
- USA nominal voltage is 120V
- Taiwan: 110V
- China: 115V
Electrical services in these regions are typically guaranteed within ±5% of nominal voltage, and motors are designed to operate within ±10% of the voltage listed on their nameplate.
At Grizzly, we list the voltage exactly as shown on the motor's nameplate to give you the most accurate information and avoid confusion between marketing materials and the actual machine.