Pillar Machine | LARICK 390 Automatic Shaper
The Model 390 Automatic Shaper is a different concept in shapers. This shaper is conveyor fed, making it ideal for shaping small parts which could not be fed with a conventional power feeder.
This 7 1/2 HP inverter controlled variable speed shaper can shape pre-arched panels automatically. Using a template, it can also hog out arched panels. Horizontal and vertical shaper adjustments with digital position indicators and the 5 position fence make profile changeovers extremely quick and simple. The 390 features tried and proven technology from Larick’s 410 Shaper/Sander – the 6 inch wide conveyor with staggered hold down tires, floating head shaper, and 5 position chipbreaker fence.
This versatile shaper with its fast and easy changeover makes it ideal for the shop with a large inventory of profiles.
390 Automatic Shaper
The 390 Automatic Shaper is an unrivaled type of shaper. Applications include making every part for arched raised panel doors in small cabinet shops to being dedicated to one profile in larger factories.
The “HANDS-OFF” method of arching panels and rails is safe and non-intimidating. The ability to “climb cut” drastically reduces reject parts, especially on arched rails. The feed rate can “follow” the shaper load, slowing down and speeding up as the cutter’s load varies.
Digital counters show the shaper’s horizontal and vertical position, and the fence has five adjustable stop positions. Therefore, changing tooling normally takes only about two minutes because all settings can be pre-set. As a result, a small shop making two to three tooling changes per day can usually save an hour of setup time each day which will more than pay for the cost of the machine.
Unlike arch door making systems using hand held fixtures, we placed a centering jig with a template over the part and fed them through the machine. The hold-down tires clamp the jig and part together on the conveyor. A bearing on the spindle contacts the template and pushes the shaper spindle back. The result is that the spindle moves back and forward and follows the template while the part is fed through. Climb cutting is possible with this system which almost eliminates rails splitting and chipping, reducing scrapped parts.
Machine Specifications
- SHAPER MOTOR: 7 1/2 HP 208-230V 3PH
- SHAPER SPEED: 4000 to 7000 RPM
- SPINDLE SIZE: 1 1/4 INCH
- FEED SPEED: VARIABLE TO 30 FPM
- CONVEYOR: 6 INCH WIDE
- MAX PART THICKNESS: 2 INCH
- FLOOR SPACE: 55” WIDE, 38” DEEP
Specifications
Pillar Machine LARICK 390 Automatic Shaper – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pillar Machine LARICK 390 Automatic Shaper?
The LARICK 390 Automatic Shaper is a high-performance, American-made woodworking shaper designed for efficient and precise shaping of mouldings, cabinet parts, trim, and architectural components. It automates feed and shaping to deliver consistent results in production environments.
Is the LARICK 390 made in America?
Yes. The LARICK 390 is manufactured in the United States by Pillar Machine, ensuring rigorous build quality, domestic parts availability, and strong U.S.-based technical support.
What applications is the LARICK 390 built for?
This automatic shaper is suited for cabinetry, architectural millwork, door component shaping, furniture parts, and other detailed wood profiles where repeatable contour accuracy is required.
How does the automatic feeding system work?
The built-in automatic feed table moves material past the shaping spindle at consistent speed and pressure, improving part uniformity and reducing the risk of operator error compared with manual feeding.
Who should consider the LARICK 390 Automatic Shaper?
Cabinet manufacturers, millwork facilities, door manufacturers, and custom woodworking shops looking for reliable, automated shaping with minimal setup variability.
How does the LARICK 390 improve production consistency?
By automating feed rate and clamping, the machine produces repeatable profile contours and reduces variability that can occur with manual feed shapers.
What types of tooling can be used with the LARICK 390?
Standard shaper cutters and tooling compatible with the machine’s spindle size can be used to produce a wide range of edge profiles, coves, beads, and decorative shapes.
Does the machine support high-volume production?
Yes. The American-built frame and industrial feed components are engineered for continuous use in production environments, making the 390 suitable for high-volume runs.
What materials can the LARICK 390 process?
Solid hardwoods, softwoods, MDF, plywood, composites, and engineered mouldings typically used in cabinetry and architectural applications.
What are the advantages of an American-built shaper?
Domestic manufacturing delivers stronger structural components, better access to parts, faster service response times, and quality-controlled assembly compared with many imported alternatives.
Is the LARICK 390 easy to maintain?
Yes. Routine maintenance points, including feed roller adjustments, spindle checks, and lubrication, are designed for accessibility to reduce downtime.
How does the LARICK 390 support operator safety?
Guarding around the cutter area, emergency stop controls, and integrated dust porting (when connected to extraction) help support safer operation when used with proper PPE.
Can the LARICK 390 reduce labor costs?
By automating feed and shaping, the machine reduces dependence on manual feed techniques, lowers skill bottlenecks, and increases throughput — all of which can lower per-part labor costs.
How does it compare to a traditional manual shaper?
Compared to manual shapers, the automatic feed system delivers more consistent parts, reduces operator fatigue, and improves repeatability across production runs.
Does the machine help improve finish quality?
Yes. More uniform shaping and reduced feed variability lead to cleaner surfaces and more consistent profiles that are easier to finish, stain, or paint.
Is the LARICK 390 suitable for custom profiles?
Yes. With appropriate tooling, it can produce a wide range of custom and standard profile shapes demanded by cabinetry and architectural specifications.
Does the LARICK 390 integrate with dust collection?
Yes. Dust ports are provided to connect to a dust collection system, helping control airborne particulates and keep work areas cleaner.
How does American manufacturing affect resale value?
Machines built in the U.S. with robust construction and domestic support generally hold higher resale value and attract buyers seeking long-term reliability.
Why choose Pillar Machine for an automatic shaper?
Pillar Machine’s American manufacturing heritage, focus on durability, and strong domestic technical support make the LARICK 390 a dependable choice for production woodworking facilities.
Is the LARICK 390 a good investment for growing shops?
Yes. Its combination of automation, consistent quality, and American-made construction supports capacity growth while maintaining finish standards and throughput.