Design and fabrication of bamboo veneer lathe

A lathe for veneering bamboo was fabricated. It measures approximately 1.2 X 0.50 X 0.60 m and weighs 1.5 tons. The main drive is equipped with a 1.5-kw gear motor. The tool/blade drive is powered by a 0.2-kw gear motor wherein the speed is adjusted by frequency inverter. Power of the main and tool/blade drives is transmitted by means of roller chain and sprocket. The operator's control panel consists of switches for the spindle drive, tool/blade drive forward-off-reverse control, push button for programmed and manual high speed of tool/blade drive and emergency stop. The main control panel has main drive and tool/blade circuit breakers and frequency inverter for speed adjustment. The lathe can produce 0.5 to 2.0-mm thick veneers by varying the frequency. Results showed that 0.50, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, 1.50, 1.75 and 2.0 mm-thick veneers require 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 75 and 85 Hz, respectively. Investment profile for three scenarios, namely: a) firm sells all the bamboo veneer produced, b) firm uses 100% of veneer produced for furniture and handicrafts production, and c) firm sells 70% of the bamboo veneer produced and uses 30% for furniture production, showed internal rates of return (IRR) of 119.34%, 1,559.78% and 65.15%, respectively. All options showed favorable indications. Technology fora and demonstrations were held in Angeles City and Iloilo City [Philippines]. The need for the technology and the technical financial viability of the lathe were assessed. In Angeles City, it was found out that technology would be needed in two to three years, while in Iloilo City, it would be as early as six months to one year. Technical viability was rated 'very good' to 'excellent' in both areas. Meanwhile, the equipment was rated 'affordable' in Angeles City and 'affordable to expensive' in Iloilo City. Overall assessment showed a bright prospect for commercializing the technology.