Yates American Woodworking Heritage
Yates-American was formed in 1925 by merging P. B. Yates Machine Co. and American Wood Working Machine Co. With factories in Beloit, WI; Hamilton, ON; and Rochester, NY, it claimed to be the largest woodworking machinery maker in the world. In 1933, they introduced the legendary A20 planer-matcher, which became highly successful in the Yates American woodworking industry, producing 100,000 board feet per shift. The company dominated the hardwood planer-matcher market, particularly excelling with short flooring boards.
In the 1930s, Yates American woodworking machinery expanded with the introduction of the J-Line for vocational education, later shifting focus to hobbyists. They also became exclusive distributors of Whitney shapers and vocational machinery. In 1961, they acquired S.A. Woods Machine Co. and moved to Roscoe, IL, returning to Beloit in 1981. The company continued to specialize in large planer-matchers, consistently enhancing design, technology, and output throughout their production history.
Modern Spiral Cutterhead Upgrades for Classic Machines
Sheartak Tools Ltd. manufactures premium spiral cutterhead solutions for vintage Yates American woodworking machines, helping loyal owners upgrade their classic equipment and enjoy the superior benefits of modern spiral cutting technology. Each cutter head is precision-engineered as a mechanical component specifically designed to breathe new life into these time-tested woodworking tools.
Our Yates American woodworking spiral cutterhead upgrades feature advanced carbide insert technology that delivers dramatically improved performance over original straight-knife systems. These mechanical components reduce noise, eliminate tear-out, and provide exceptional surface finishes while maintaining the robust character of your vintage machinery. Every cutter head manufactured by Sheartak Tools Ltd. honors the quality legacy of Yates American woodworking equipment.
Custom Solutions for Your Vintage Woodworking Tools
If you're unable to locate your Yates American woodworking machine's model number on our website, feel free to reach out to us. Sheartak Tools Ltd. will be happy to create a custom spiral cutterhead for you at an affordable price. We specialize in engineering mechanical components that perfectly match the specifications of your specific planer-matcher or other Yates American woodworking tools, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance from your classic machinery.
Do I need to replace the original bearings?
If the bearings in your machine are in good condition, they can be reused by carefully removing them with a bearing or pulley puller. However, if the bearings are tightly pressed onto the shaft, removal may cause damage. To minimize this risk, we recommend replacing old bearings with our greased and sealed bearings, designed for long-lasting performance. For a smooth upgrade, we suggest adding the bearings to your shopping cart before completing your purchase.
We provide premium bearings from NSK, SKF, NTN, FAG, Timken. They are renowned for their high quality and performance, designed to provide durability and reliability in various applications
Do I need to to Add a Few Boxes of Carbide Inserts
We provide 5 carbide inserts and 5 screws as spare parts. However, many of our customers choose to purchase additional boxes, as the shipping costs for separate purchases can make it less economical.
Do I need a Torque Wrench?
To securely lock the carbide inserts, we recommend applying a torque of 48 to 52 Pound-Inches (or 5.42 to 5.88 Newton-Meters). (Note: 1 Newton-Meter is equal to 8.851 Pound-Inches, and 1 Pound-Inch is approximately 0.113 Newton-Meters.) It is crucial not to apply excessive torque, as this could cause the carbide inserts to crack or explode. On the other hand, using too little torque may result in the inserts not being properly secured, which could lead to cracks, shattering, or uneven height on the cutter block, causing ridges or lines on the board.
If one person is responsible for maintaining the machine, they can typically apply the same torque consistently without a torque wrench. However, when multiple people are involved in machine maintenance, ensuring uniform torque application can be challenging. For consistency and peace of mind, we recommend using a torque wrench.
What kind of steel the cutter block is made of?
The cutter block is constructed using GB/T 40Cr, a structural alloy steel of the same caliber as ASTM grade 5140, AISI 5140, SAE 5140, DIN 41Cr4, BS 41Cr4, JIS SCr440, and EN 41Cr4.The primary components of this steel are as follows: carbon (C) at a range of 0.37-0.44%, silicon (Si) between 0.17-0.37%, manganese (Mn) within 0.50-0.80%, and chromium (Cr) from 0.80-1.10%.
In terms of physical properties, this steel exhibits a tensile strength range of 115-234σb/MPa, a yield strength of 2σ 0.2 ≥/MPa, and an elongation capacity of 65 δ5≥ (%). It also has a HBS range of 123-321 and a HRC rating of 30.
This alloy steel is frequently utilized in low to moderately stressed components for machines, engines, and vehicles.
