If the material is run through the machine too fast, the finish quality will suffer. The consideration of the tool type versus the material being run is very important, Rankin said. For instance, MDF requires the use of either carbide or diamond tooling. In the case of solid wood, the concern is how the wood affects the tool. For example, hickory is very hard after it is dried.
Carbide is a very good choice for hickory.
Poplar, on the other hand, will normally show a better finish with high-speed steel even though carbide can be used. Glued stock is another area that must be considered when looking at the expected tool life. All steels will not work with glued stock. Many glues will require the use of carbide or a very hard steel knife stock. An important segment of proper tool maintenance is the care and handling of tools and knives, according to Earp.