To calculate the optimum cutting parameters for your planer or moulder you can use the Power calculator tool. You have to enter the timber parameters as machining width (regardless of orientation), stock removal, feeding speed and wood species. From the machine side the calculator requires machining parameters as cutting circle diameter, number of knifes and head RPM.
As results of the planer Knife Mark Calculator you will receive a list of parameters which will help you to evaluate your planing conditions. The limits will be indicated by the colours green, yellow and red. The required motor power on the spindle is a theoretical result. To this result we add an efficiency factor of the machine where transmission losses and considered.
Other factors as wood condition and planing knife sharpness also have additional influence on the power requirement.
To evaluate the surface quality there is feed per knife and wave depth next to the average chip thickness.