[HELP] Shaper Tool Holder Position

[Vinny]

(11-30-2023, 01:59 PM)KellisRJ Wrote: Hello, thanks in advance to any who can help.

In this thread, http://www.metalworkingfun.com/thread-791-page-4.html

I read Stevec 's post regarding tool placement in a shaper clapper, described from a 90 degree position. Can this also be called  the tool holder leading or following the clapper?

From your comment, it sounds like setting tool holder behind the clapper head is generally the best practice to prevent the tool digging into the work. Do I have this correct?

Any other general "rule of thumb" to share, I would deeply appreciate.

Ron

I'm going to take a stab at this, BTW, welcome to the forum!

The shaper pushes the bit into the metal it's cutting. A positive rake would act as a wedge forcing the bit further into the metal. The 90 degree portion only applies to the lathe where rather than diggin in on the lathe, the cutter would be forced away from the metal. On the shaper, the cutter/bit should always be at a 90 to the metal. I'm using the term "metal" as the substance you're cutting be it metal, wood, etc.. Did I answer your question or make it worse? I haven't run a shaper since high school and that was a loooooong time ago.