Routers.pdf

Routers 3 common types o Laminate trimmers o Regular/fixed base o Plunge All use a collet to hold the bit in the machine o Usually ¼ or ½”  Some have 3/8” or 8mm Very uncommon, don’t buy them o Many have a safety collet  Have to crack the nut twice to remove the bit o Squeezing the wrenches agains...

Routers 3 common types o Laminate trimmers o Regular/fixed base o Plunge All use a collet to hold the bit in the machine o Usually ¼ or ½”  Some have 3/8” or 8mm Very uncommon, don’t buy them o Many have a safety collet  Have to crack the nut twice to remove the bit o Squeezing the wrenches against themselves to tighten or loosen the bit is the best way as you have more control o Spindle locks can be hit and miss – can be awkward to use All variations of a high speed motor that holds a cutting bit Laminate trimmers o Small, made for single handed use o Designed for trimming laminate after installation  Trims laminate flush to the corresponding edge o Have ¼” collet, made for small bits o Typically not variable speed o Specialty bases are available for tilting and trimming overages (columns) o Most often used with trimming bits  Bevel trimmer  Flush trimmer o Relatively inexpensive machines  $100 -$200 Regular Routers o Larger than laminate trimmers o Many are variable speed o Most have both ¼” and ½” collets  Still not a good idea to run large diameter bits For use in router table or shaper o Most profiles can be cut in one pass  Though better practice is to make a heavier cut, checking for lay of the grain  2nd pass can be a lighter cut, about 1/16”, to finish up the profile  Climb cutting is common (running tool with rotation) Helps avoid/fix tear-out when runs out the wrong way o Most have fence guide for straight lines o Collars can be fixed to the base in order to follow templates/guides/jigs o o  Fastened to router base  Non-ferrous metals – aluminum or brass  Used for inlays, flush trimming, dovetail jig Router tables allow for the router to be used as a mini shaper  Inverted and suspended underneath  Better ones, like the Jessem kits, very versatile but expensive Specialty bases also available Plunge Routers o The base allows the router to plunge down into the work surface o Base is spring loaded  Wants to stay in the higher position  Can be locked in place and used as a fixed base router o Usually larger machines – up to 3-1/2 HP o The base has turret stop  Allows to set multiple depths o Often used with circle cutting base  Shop made base allows to cut different diameter circles Things to consider when purchasing o Soft start o On /off switch location o Variable speed – smaller higher RPM - larger bits lower RPM o Spindle lock o Collet sizes