Moulder Feed Problems 2: Caused by Material

A problem-solution checklist chart for correcting moulder feed problems. November 27, 2006


Reprinted with permission from Diehl Machines, www.diehlmachines.com.

TROUBLESHOOTING FEED PROBLEMS ON THE THROUGH FEED MOULDER - CAUSED BY MATERIAL
Probable Cause How to Correct


Wet lumber.

With some exceptions most lumber produces a better finish at 7% to 9% moisture content.

Warped twisted or bowed stock.

As much as possible keep the bow (concave side) of the board down and to the right guide.

Wax tar or chemical on stock.

Trim ends of material.

Un-square stock.

Mostly effects short material. Adjust the chop saw to cut square ends.

Stock dimensions vary more than 1/4".

Variations in material greater than 1/4" can create jams in the machine. Look into stock preparation.

Pitch build-up on guides or bed plates.

When running soft woods it may be necessary to clean the machine more often. Increasing the bed lubrication can help.

Soft spot or dry rotted area of the material.

Look into stock preparation.

Case hardened Material.

Check the material drying process.

Dry lumber.

Moisture contents below 6% become harder to machine. Check the material drying process.

Knots or slivers of wood jammed in the machine.

Clean the machine. Look into stock preparation.

Length shorter than the self-feed length.

Keep the material butt fed into the machine. Try hopper or conveyor feed systems.

To view the other articles in this series, see:
Moulder Feed Problems 1: Caused by Machine
Moulder Feed Problems 3: Caused by Tooling

Reprinted with permission from Diehl Machines, www.diehlmachines.com.