Domino connector alignment tolerance

[arppra]

this question is about the domino connector set for the 500.

for the butt joint connectors (D8 50) the product page states “Routing and cutting tolerances of up to 1.4 mm are compensated for without problems by the fixture”

i’m just wanting to seek some clarity on this. Does this imply that if i’m butting a panel and input 3 connectors in where 2 are referenced from the edges and 1 in the centre, that the centre cuts have a 1.4 mm margin of error? There seems to be some play on the receiving end of the connector so that’s my guess but want to be sure.

Also, if that were the case does that make them less useful for flush alignment? is it recommended to throw a referenced wood domino on each panel for alignment?

Thanks!

 

[luvmytoolz]

Yes they have a fraction of movement tolerance, but the alignment factor will always come from using the tenons in conjunction with the connectors.

 

[Cheese]

Also, if that were the case does that make them less useful for flush alignment? is it recommended to throw a referenced wood domino on each panel for alignment?

Yes, Festool recommends at least 1 wood Domino for each joint. The wood Dominos align surfaces and provide strength while the D8 or D14 connectors just draw the pieces together.

 

[Neil Lickfold]

This is a very timely post. I have an old chair and seeing Cheese post inspired me to fix it with the connector set , that I got as part of a bindle deal.
I have both the D8 and D14 connector sets new in boxes still. The oneday moment will be arriving.
Thanks,
Neil

 

[luvmytoolz]

@Neil Lickfold I'd be concerned if you're relying only on a connector (even with a Domino) for the chair, ideally dowels or 2 Dominos would be a better solution IMHO.

For beds and cupboards the racking forces are constrained by the size of the boards with the connectors/tenons, but for a chair with the timber/rails being so much smaller the effects will be far stronger.

I suspect they would split the timber under load.

 

[arppra]

Thanks all, this has been helpful!
Decided to go trial-by-fire, picked up a set and used them on a fairly large cabinet. The alignment tenons helped a lot.

Though, i did seem to plan my way into a difficult situation with one of the panels, haha. Made it real tough to get in.
I'll have to do some research before my next project on proper/strategic mortise placement!