What are Spindle Moulders and How Are They Used?

This blog will spotlight a very versatile and useful tool with a delightfully old-fashioned name. Spindle moulders are a valuable addition that fit into all but the smallest hobby workshops. Here at Calderbrook, we provide several spindle moulders to suit various budgets and requirements. Read on to get a better understanding of what they are and what they’re used for.

What is a spindle moulder?

A spindle moulder, also known as a wood shaper, is a versatile woodworking machine used to shape, profile and mould wood. It consists of a vertical rotating spindle onto which various cutting tools such as blades, cutters and router bits can be mounted. These tools include different types of cutters, heads and knives, designed to create a wide range of profiles and shapes on the edges or surfaces of wooden workpieces.

Spindle moulders are commonly used in professional woodworking shops and manufacturing facilities, but they can also be a valuable addition to larger hobbyist workshops.

What can they do?

They are capable of creating mouldings, trim, joinery components and decorative edges, which is why they’re so commonly used in cabinetry and furniture making, particularly where decorative trims or mouldings are needed. Spindle moulders can also be used to manufacture window frames and staircases; in fact, any area requiring decorative design finishes.

The machine allows for precise and consistent shaping, making it ideal for producing intricate designs and detailed work. When wood is fed into the spindle moulder, typically along a guide, it is kept in place to ensure a straight and accurate cut.

A versatile tool

The versatility of spindle moulders comes from their ability to change cutting tools quickly and easily, allowing woodworkers to switch between different profiles and shapes without extensive setup time. This adaptability makes spindle moulders an essential tool for custom furniture making, cabinetry, door and window frame production, and various other woodworking applications. They can also handle different types of wood, from softwoods to hardwoods and composites.

Be careful with a vertical spindle moulder!

The Health and Safety Executive has produced advice on the dangers of using a spindle moulder incorrectly.  There are plenty of risks, including the ejection of the tool part or workpiece. Proper training is essential before first using a spindle moulder.

The HSE advises that tools used on hand-fed machines, such as spindle moulders, should be correctly marked as follows:
·      Name and trademark of the manufacturer or supplier
·      Designed speed range
·      ‘MAN’ to indicate that it is for hand-feed
·      Tool dimensions – the cutting diameter, cutting width and bore diameter
 
If you are in any doubt about the safety of any spindle moulder that you may be planning to purchase, we at Calderbrook Woodworking Machinery are happy to offer help and advice. Check out our website for information about spindle moulders.

By understanding the capabilities and uses of spindle moulders, woodworkers, whether just starting out or time-served professionals, can enhance their productivity and achieve higher quality results in their projects.