These articles describe
an alignment procedure for the Ryobi BT3100. They explain the principles of alignment, a
tolerance, what effect any alignment error will have, and how to set the machine features
to achieve proper alignment. The alignment devices built into the machine are somewhat
crude but with care and by using good technique, the BT3100 can be aligned reasonably
well.
An explanation of couple of basic principles are in order first. Due to the dangerous
nature of some tools, alignments are normally performed in what is called a
"Static" state. A Static state is basically with the power off; the
Dynamic state is with the machine powered and performing normal operations. It is quite
possible to have some minor alignment difference between Static and Dynamic states but the
principles involved are 100% the same between these situations. Initial alignments are
done statically - because it is far safer to do so. The final verification is a dynamic
event however.
Another principle to consider is basically knowing when to stop. Throughout the alignment
process one would be measuring alignment in thousandths of an inch. When dealing
with measurements this small, at some point minor influences that woodworkers don't
usually deal with start to become the dominant influence. An example of this is that the
surface quality of the end of a screw can have an impact upon how reliably a feature can
be moved (thus aligned). Pressure applied to one end of a fence as opposed to another as
stock is pushed through the cut can make a small difference. The key is knowing when to
stop and let well enough alone; otherwise alignment can become a futile exercise in trying
to "guild the lily".
I do want to point out that the techniques described
in these article are not the only ones that can be used. They are however provable
and widely accepted as the "best practices" for machine alignment. |
Rip
Fence Rails
Rip Fence
Sliding Miter Table
Crosscut
Fence |
