skip navigation
Home >  WorkSafe >  Thicknesser

Noise management data sheets: thicknesser

Contents

  1. Maintenance
  2. Noise control
  3. Operator control
  4. Alternatives

1. Maintenance

  • Ensure blades are sharpened at regular intervals and as required.
  • Ensure the dust extractor heads are firmly connected to the thicknesser to avoid rattles. 

2. Noise control

  • Consider the practicality of enclosing machine.
  • When a cutter wheel rotates under no load conditions, an air stream is being chopped creating a siren noise. The air cavity around the cutting blade can be filled with rubber to reduce the free running blade noise.
  • With newer models, line blade guard with high-density acoustic foam such as Decibar AF 50 or similar, to reduce the free running blade noise.
  • Locate machine away from work areas, alongside other noisy equipment or in a separate machine room. 

3. Operator control

  • Dress timber in small increments, not taking large "chunks" out at one time.
  • Ensure staff are adequately trained in correct use of the thicknesser. 

4. Alternatives

  • Consider the substitution of softwoods for hardwoods.
  • Purchase pre-machined timber where possible. 

Adapted from the Noise Control Manual for Schools with the permission of the Education Department of Western Australia.

Related information