Powermatic 1285 12" Helical Head Jointer 3hp, 1PH, 230V
This 12" jointer offers big capacity and performance in a machine that is loaded with features. Large center-mounted fence assembly adjusts easily via rack and pinion system with ram lock. Preset stops on the fence body allow for fast angle set-up at 45° in and out, and a positive stop for perfect 90° angles.
The parallelogram design keeps the table in close proximity to the cutterhead for improved finish and allows for a fast depth of cut adjustment. This design also ensures the tables remain perfectly parallel even after years of tough duty. Choose either the standard three-knife cutterhead or the solid steel Helical cutterhead. The helical system makes fast work of knife changing and never needs adjustment.
Features
- Helical cutterhead with 42 two sided carbide inserts for fast knife changes with no adjustments and a quiet clean cut
- Large 12" x 84" precision ground cast iron table surface for heavy-duty work
- Parallelogram design for close table-to-cutterhead proximity and fast depth of cut adjustments
- Rack and pinion adjustable cast iron fence assembly for smooth fence positioning without play
- Table "lips" on both sides of cutterhead aid in noise reduction
Specifications
| Cutterhead Speed (RPM) |
5,000 |
| Cutting Capacity (W x D) |
11-3/4" x 3/4" |
| Dust Collection Minimum CFM Required (CFM) |
800 |
| Dust Port Outside Diameter |
4" |
| Motor Phase |
1 |
| Motor Power |
3hp |
| Motor Voltage |
230V |
| Number of Knives |
44 |
| Prewired Voltage |
230V |
| Recommended Circuit Size (Amps.) |
30 |
What Our Experts Think
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Exceptional Cut Quality: The Powermatic 1285 12" Helical Head Jointer features a helical cutterhead that delivers ultra-smooth cuts with minimal tear-out, ensuring superior surface finishes, especially on hardwoods.
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Durable Construction: Built with a heavy-duty cast iron table and a robust steel frame, the 1285 offers exceptional stability, reducing vibration and maintaining accuracy during operation.
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Quiet & Efficient Operation: The helical cutterhead design reduces noise while providing a smoother, more efficient cutting experience compared to traditional straight knives.
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Powerful 3HP Motor: Powered by a 3HP, 1-phase, 230V motor, this jointer provides ample power to handle demanding tasks, making it ideal for both small and large woodworking projects.
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Precise Depth Control: The advanced depth control system ensures smooth, consistent cuts, while the parallelogram design keeps the tables coplanar for accurate adjustments across the board.
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User-Friendly Design: Despite its professional-grade features, the 1285 is easy to use and adjust, making it suitable for woodworkers of various skill levels, from hobbyists to professionals.
Q&A
Q: What is the Powermatic 1285 12" Helical Head Jointer?
A: The Powermatic 1285 12" Helical Head Jointer is a high-performance woodworking machine designed to deliver smooth, precise jointing with a 12-inch cutting capacity, 3HP motor, and a helical cutterhead for quiet, efficient cuts.
Q: What are the key features of the Powermatic 1285 Jointer?
A: Key features include a 3HP motor, helical cutterhead for reduced noise and smoother finishes, a 12-inch cutting width, and a robust, durable build that ensures long-lasting, high-quality performance.
Q: How does the Powermatic 1285 Jointer benefit woodworking?
A: The helical cutterhead provides superior cutting performance with minimal noise, ensuring clean, precise edges on large pieces of stock, while the 3HP motor delivers ample power for heavy-duty use.
Q: Who is the Powermatic 1285 Jointer ideal for?
A: Ideal for professional woodworkers and high-volume workshops, the Powermatic 1285 is perfect for those who need a reliable, powerful machine that delivers exceptional results on wide boards and heavy stock
Maintenance Tips
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Regular Cleaning:
- Wipe down the tables, fence, and other surfaces with a soft cloth to remove dust, dirt, and wood chips.
- Use a vacuum or compressed air to clean the dust collection system and surrounding areas to avoid clogs.
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Inspect and Maintain Helical Cutterhead:
- Regularly check the helical cutterhead for any dull or damaged inserts. Rotate or replace the inserts as necessary to maintain a sharp cutting edge.
- Clean the cutterhead area to prevent resin or debris buildup that could affect performance.
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Lubricate Parallelogram Mechanism and Bed:
- Apply a light coat of lubricant to the parallelogram bed and rails to ensure smooth table adjustments.
- Ensure the table height adjustment system operates freely and check that handles are secure.
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Inspect and Adjust the Fence:
- Check the fence for proper alignment and securely lock it in place during use.
- Clean and inspect the fence for damage, and adjust it to maintain square alignment with the table.
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Motor and Electrical Inspection:
- Ensure the motor is securely mounted and operating without excessive vibration or noise.
- Inspect electrical components and wiring for any signs of wear, ensuring that connections are intact and the power switch operates properly.
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Dust Collection System:
- Regularly inspect and clean the dust collection port and hose to prevent blockages.
- Empty the dust collection bag or container frequently to maintain optimal suction and prevent overflow.
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Check Table Alignment:
- Periodically inspect the infeed and outfeed tables for levelness and adjust them as needed to maintain alignment with the cutterhead for smooth cutting.
- Ensure the tables are free from any damage or misalignment that could affect performance.
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Tighten Loose Bolts and Fasteners:
- Periodically check for any loose bolts, screws, or fasteners, especially on the bed, fence, and cutterhead. Tighten as necessary to ensure stability during use.
