Unique 250 adds power, versatility

Unique Machine & Tool Company recently updated its model 250 door machine. Launched in 1980, the machine was initially developed to make raised panel doors quickly and efficiently. The new ideas stem from customer feedback, in which customers indicated they wanted to use the machine for even more than what they are already doing, says the company.

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"With this machine being well-guarded and having a clamping system, it makes it very easy for a person to do the arches and make the cuts necessary that normally would be done on a shaper. It makes it much easier for an operator, whether skilled or not, to make a door quickly and also do it very safely," says company president Jeremy Lutringer.

The Unique 250 is appropriate for a range of applications from cabinet doors to entry doors and any shaping operation that doesn't require a template. Lutringer emphasized that the machine doesn't necessarily have to be dedicated to doors - it can be used for furniture parts and billiard table components, for example.

Among the new features is a Clear View guard rail, which gives the operator greater visibility. The table has been extended from a 50" to a 75" capacity, making it ideal for handling larger workpieces.

The motor power has been increased as well. A new 10-hp motor takes the place of a 7.5-hp motor, making the new machine suitable for thicker workpieces. The motor also features a direct drive system that replaces the belt drive system in older models and eliminates belt slippage.

The standard version is the 250GT2 model, which starts at $20,000.

An XS option provides 8" of cutter capacity to stack a complete entry door set or add an edge detail when doing cabinet doors, extended clamp cylinders for passage doors and extended cutting capacity of 65". With the XS option, the machine sells for less than $25,000.

Contact: Unique Machine & Tool Co., 4232 E. Magnolia, Phoenix, AZ 85034. Tel: 602-470-1911. www.uniquemachine.com

This article originally appeared in the November 2009 issue.