32 mm system help

Alan m

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Aug 11, 2010
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i know this probably isnt in the right place but feel free to move it if ye want.

i have just got the lr32 system . i havent used it yet. i know there are tutorials on using it like setting it up etc.
i am looking for a good reference for building with the 32 mm system. be it a book or a website.
i remember seeing a book a while back but cant find any reference to it now. this isnt really a festool question as the jig itself is well docunented , but there doent seem to be a good depth of liriture on building a whole kitchen or big wardrobe with the system.

can any body help me out. when i am going half way there i feel i should embrace the whole 32 mm system
 
DO a search on this site.  Mirko did a good writeup a few years ago.  Also several references to other reading material in that post.  Google True32.  Unfortunately there is not a single 32mm system, each one has nuances so you have to choose one and stick with it.
 
Truth is this is a more complicated question than if might first appear.  The 32mm system is designed to have a system approach to efficiently making a wide array cabinets sizes with a euro style hardware in a production setting.  Of course you know that.  The important part of the system is in bold above.  If you are asking about the very basics of this system that may indicate you don't really need figure the system beyond the very basics.  For someone that doesn't have a decent understanding of cabinet construction with euro hardware the 32mm system may confusing, this is especially true when talking about drawers.    

You could be better served not to focus understanding the all details at first but rather try to grasp the basic concepts.  that said here is a good place to start.
Dave Lers' 32mm Cabinetmaking.
       

Kevin Stricker said:
DO a search on this site.  Mirko did a good writeup a few years ago.  Also several references to other reading material in that post.  Google True32.  Unfortunately there is not a single 32mm system, each one has nuances so you have to choose one and stick with it.

I don't know that I agree with you here.  I think it's best to take the parts of each system you like and adapt them to your needs.  

   
 
Brice Burrell said:
 

I don't know that I agree with you here.  I think it's best to take the parts of each system you like and adapt them to your needs.  
 

I guess my point was that one of the factors that changes between the different 32mm systems is top and bottom offsets.  Obviously on a given project you want to keep this the same.  While it may seem easier to just pick and choose between them i think you potentially cause yourself more grief when 1 year down the road you decide to tackle another project.  That's why I think it best to pick one and become proficient at it.
 
I use Blum's Process32. 

Here's a link to the document

I like the drawer sizes and they give the dimensions in inches and mm.  The inches really work too.

This system doesn't use a balanced panel.  Has anyone used the LR32 with this Blum system? 

 
I believe the system was developed after the Second World War to satisfy the need for fast, easy, low-cost furniture assembly for millions of homes destroyed in the war.

The 32mm system was scaleable as everything was a multiple of 32mm, therefore panel production machinery could be easily adapted to produce all different sizes of cabinets. The lack of a face frame made construction easier and quicker too.

I am sure there is an interesting book on it somewhere.
 
fshanno said:
I use Blum's Process32. 

Here's a link to the document

I like the drawer sizes and they give the dimensions in inches and mm.  The inches really work too.

This system doesn't use a balanced panel.  Has anyone used the LR32 with this Blum system? 

The one problem the LR32 has is that it is limited to two (the newest version has three) setting for the end stops.  The end stops set the distance from the edge of the panel to the first hole.  The LR32 stops allow for 9, 16 and 32mm offset (the 9mm offset only available on the newest stops).  The Blum process 32, Pearls and Kiss II systems don't use an offset the LR32 has, so you would need to figure out a way to make your own custom offset.  It's possible, you can make your own stop for the guide rail.  I use the parallel guides instead of the stops to use any offset I want.

I'd love to see someone come up with an adjustable stop for the LR32 (hey Ron, you listening). 
 
I'm just an amateur woodworker and I've built 3 sets of cabinets using the 32mm system. From my perspecitve it's more difficult than a conventional face frame cabinet, however I like the end result better. Just just figuring out what hinge to use, what offsets, overlays, reveals, etc. is overwhelming to begin with. All the information is available but it's aimed at someone who already knows the nomenclature.

I'm just about to finish and install a pantry unit 3 bays wide with a single door on the top and 5 drawers under on each. I used Blum Metabox drawers, which are really nifty if not high end, but another mystery to solve, especially if you want something other than the standard fill.
 
Brice Burrell said:
fshanno said:
I use Blum's Process32. 

Here's a link to the document

I like the drawer sizes and they give the dimensions in inches and mm.  The inches really work too.

This system doesn't use a balanced panel.  Has anyone used the LR32 with this Blum system? 

The one problem the LR32 has is that it is limited to two (the newest version has three) setting for the end stops.  The end stops set the distance from the edge of the panel to the first hole.  The LR32 stops allow for 9, 16 and 32mm offset (the 9mm offset only available on the newest stops).  The Blum process 32, Pearls and Kiss II systems don't use an offset the LR32 has, so you would need to figure out a way to make your own custom offset.  It's possible, you can make your own stop for the guide rail.  I use the parallel guides instead of the stops to use any offset I want.

I'd love to see someone come up with an adjustable stop for the LR32 (hey Ron, you listening).   

Brice,

I just bought the LR32 and I didn't have time to play with it yet.  I am a hobbiest so forgive me if my question don't make much sense.

What would happen if we use the LR32 holes, Won't I have enough room for reveals to top of a base cabinet, or .... I don't know why to choose a different systems.
I know you guys are talking about offset and reveals, but can we do it anyways with Festool?  Should I return the LR32 and search for a simple one?

I am very  ???.  All the eurocabinets that I made before were based in arbitrary measurements, I used the jigit from Rockler for the holes and 3 inches for the euro hinges (which is very close to all the systems recommend).  I understand the holes can be used for the drawers as well, but I don't see why a reveal will cause a problem if we use LR32.  If I need a reveal, I would make it to the face of the drawer not to the drawer itself.

Am I not getting it?  What am I missing?

Regards,

Fidel
 
Fidel, let me give you a brief overview of what the Blum, Grass and other adaptations of the 32mm system are intended for.  They are designed to have one system to efficiently make a wide array cabinets sizes based on standard or uniform sized components and a specific hardware.  All panel sizes are a specific offset plus a multiple of 32, all drawers heights are the specific offset plus a multiple of 32 and so on.  These offsets are used to maximize space and efficiency of construction with a particular brand/line of hardware in a production setting. 

Understanding these systems is where a lot of beginner cabinet makers get tripped up.  The novice or beginner doesn't necessarily need to use these systems since they aren't doing production work.  The whole idea behind these systems is to avoid "one off" sized pieces.  The beauty of not being in a production environment is you can make all your cabinets/parts to exactly fit your own design.  If you design your cabinets to best fit your needs and you may not maximize space and ease of construction by production standards.  However, you can gain more freedom of design if you want it.  So, if you're coming up with your own design why not incorporate the 16 and 32mm offsets of the LR32.  In other words, don't get hung up on these other systems because they may not be best for your needs.  Also, once you understand the basics of the euro hardware and the 32mm system it's not hard to design your projects to fit the LR32.                 
 
I think the 32mm system can be used as designed or as a spring board for your own system. Whatever you go with, think through it for all applications so your setup will be second nature. I set up my 32mm system a long time ago without the benefit of knowing how the system was intended. I acquired a Blum mini press along with the seven spindle line bore attachment. Using the machine and fixed spacing between 5mm holes:32mm, I decided I wanted all of my sides regardless of height or depth to have all the holes the same offset from top, bottom, and edge. This allowed me to keep the stops on the machine in one location for line boring. In addition, my sides are non handed: no rights or lefts. The only thing I had to do was make my sizing a multiple of 32mm. In other words, a 34.5" base side is 876mm a 7' tall cabinet is 2133mm, etc.. The very slight difference will go unnoticed. Using my cabinet assembly style, the sides on all cabinets are dominate, so the top and bottom space the sides rather than support them. I am not saying this is the best system, but it works for me. Plus, if I ever go back to a job, I can add doors and drawers without even having to measure. The 32mmm system is flexible and can be adapted. On the other hand, it's not a bad idea to understand a system that is already proven.

Ron Paulk
www.paulkhomes.com
 
This is very helpful information gentlemen.  I had thought that using the system outside of some rigid setup was frowned upon.  I've been using based on fitting it to my way of working, which so far has not been for more than a couple of projects, but at least I don't feel that I'm doing something necessarily wrong.  Thanks for sharing!
 
crpaulk said:
I think the 32mm system can be used as designed or as a spring board for your own system. Whatever you go with, think through it for all applications so your setup will be second nature. I set up my 32mm system a long time ago without the benefit of knowing how the system was intended. I acquired a Blum mini press along with the seven spindle line bore attachment. Using the machine and fixed spacing between 5mm holes:32mm, I decided I wanted all of my sides regardless of height or depth to have all the holes the same offset from top, bottom, and edge. This allowed me to keep the stops on the machine in one location for line boring. In addition, my sides are non handed: no rights or lefts. The only thing I had to do was make my sizing a multiple of 32mm. In other words, a 34.5" base side is 876mm a 7' tall cabinet is 2133mm, etc.. The very slight difference will go unnoticed. Using my cabinet assembly style, the sides on all cabinets are dominate, so the top and bottom space the sides rather than support them. I am not saying this is the best system, but it works for me. Plus, if I ever go back to a job, I can add doors and drawers without even having to measure. The 32mmm system is flexible and can be adapted. On the other hand, it's not a bad idea to understand a system that is already proven.

Ron Paulk
www.paulkhomes.com

The two sentences in bold above contradict each other.  For example 864mm is the closest multiple of 32mm to a standard cabinet height.  I'm pointing this out since the using the LR32 is the base of the context in this thread.  With non-multiplies of 32 means using the LR32 a little differently that it's intended.  It's not insurmountable by any means but it means know how to adapt the use and being aware of the possible pitfalls. 
 
Kevin D. said:
This is very helpful information gentlemen.  I had thought that using the system outside of some rigid setup was frowned upon.  I've been using based on fitting it to my way of working, which so far has not been for more than a couple of projects, but at least I don't feel that I'm doing something necessarily wrong.  Thanks for sharing!

Kevin, as long as you are getting the results you want you aren't doing anything wrong. [thumbs up]
 
Brice Burrell said:
crpaulk said:
I think the 32mm system can be used as designed or as a spring board for your own system. Whatever you go with, think through it for all applications so your setup will be second nature. I set up my 32mm system a long time ago without the benefit of knowing how the system was intended. I acquired a Blum mini press along with the seven spindle line bore attachment. Using the machine and fixed spacing between 5mm holes:32mm, I decided I wanted all of my sides regardless of height or depth to have all the holes the same offset from top, bottom, and edge. This allowed me to keep the stops on the machine in one location for line boring. In addition, my sides are non handed: no rights or lefts. The only thing I had to do was make my sizing a multiple of 32mm. In other words, a 34.5" base side is 876mm a 7' tall cabinet is 2133mm, etc.. The very slight difference will go unnoticed. Using my cabinet assembly style, the sides on all cabinets are dominate, so the top and bottom space the sides rather than support them. I am not saying this is the best system, but it works for me. Plus, if I ever go back to a job, I can add doors and drawers without even having to measure. The 32mmm system is flexible and can be adapted. On the other hand, it's not a bad idea to understand a system that is already proven.

Ron Paulk
www.paulkhomes.com

The two sentences in bold above contradict each other.  For example 864mm is the closest multiple of 32mm to a standard cabinet height.  I'm pointing this out since the using the LR32 is the base of the context in this thread.  With non-multiplies of 32 means using the LR32 a little differently that it's intended.  It's not insurmountable by any means but it means know how to adapt the use and being aware of the possible pitfalls. 

Brice,
864mm is the number I use for standard bases. It is not a contradiction just bad memory. It has been a bit since I have built cabinets. When I typed it, I considered confirming my math, but was wrapped up in the concept. My point is that the Blum 32mm system requires lefts and rights. My system does not as the holes are the same distance from the top edge and bottom edge, so they can be flipped for either side. Again, not saying it is best, but it works. In addition, I use a portable 110 Blum machine with stops fixed in place so I don't have to make adjustments. The only thing I have to do is cut my cabinet sides: uppers, lowers, talls a multiple of 32mm. Sorry about confusion, I promise to do better:)

Ron Paulk
www.paulkhomes.com

 
I just ordered a LR32 set from UK, and try to read and learn about the system. Thanks to all contributers here in the forum for a lot of useful information.

IKEA kitchen cabinets are very popular here in scandinavia, and I am considering using IKEA hardware when I´m making my own cabinets. Had a look at a IKEA cabinet in my kitchen, and noticed that the holes on these cabinets are drilled 27mm from the front. Is this a special IKEA feature?  ???

Norse
 
Hi the 32mm refers to the vertical. there are various backsets for hinges
 
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