L.S. Barker Woodworking Heritage
L.S. Barker woodworking was an esteemed Australian manufacturer of woodworking machinery, established by Lot Sydney Forbes Barker around 1925. Initially operating as L.S. Barker Engineer, an engineering firm, the company was first listed at 23 Cumberland Place, Melbourne. Over the years, this pioneering L.S. Barker woodworking business relocated to 11 Collie Street, North Melbourne (1928–1939), and later to 20 Willis Street, North Melbourne (from 1940 onward).
The company produced a comprehensive variety of woodworking tools, including bandsaws, planers, and combination machines. One notable product from L.S. Barker woodworking was a four-in-one combination machine, reflecting the 1960s trend of multifunctional woodworking equipment. L.S. Barker collaborated with McPherson's, a prominent machinery distributor, to market their woodworking machinery throughout Australia. McPherson's also distributed other brands, such as Macson for metalworking machinery.
Continuing the L.S. Barker Woodworking Legacy
After Lot Sydney Forbes Barker's sudden passing in 1947, the L.S. Barker woodworking company's operations continued under different management. The legacy of this distinguished Australian manufacturer persists today, with Barker Woodwork Engineering in Heidelberg West, Victoria, being considered the last remnant of the original company. This firm continues to provide parts, repairs, and second-hand machinery, specializing in servicing Barker wide belt sanders and preserving the tradition of quality L.S. Barker woodworking tools.
Modern Spiral Cutterhead Upgrades
Sheartak Tools Ltd. manufactures precision-engineered spiral cutterhead solutions compatible with select L.S. Barker woodworking planers and jointers. Our advanced cutter head technology transforms these classic Australian machines into modern high-performance systems. Each spiral cutterhead jointer conversion features premium carbide inserts as mechanical components arranged along helical grooves, creating a true shear-cut that dramatically reduces noise and eliminates tear-out.
These mechanical component upgrades deliver exceptional surface finishes while honoring the quality legacy of L.S. Barker woodworking machinery. The advanced cutter head design provides more than 10 times the blade life of traditional straight knives. When an edge dulls on your spiral cutterhead jointer, simply rotate the insert 90 degrees for a fresh cutting edge—no blade removal or sharpening required.
Supporting L.S. Barker Woodworking Tools
We're pleased to support loyal L.S. Barker woodworking machine owners in upgrading and experiencing the advantages of modern spiral cutting technology. Whether you own a vintage planer, jointer, or combination machine, Sheartak Tools Ltd. can provide custom mechanical components designed to maximize the potential of your classic Australian woodworking tools while preserving their distinguished heritage.
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
If you add the bearings to your order, we will preinstall them for you when premounting is possible, saving you the hassle of doing it yourself.
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.
