Routers- a brief overview

Routers

Common Features of all Routers

All routers work in a very similar manner; a cutter grips in a collet which is in turn attaches to the spindle of an electric motor. A pair of parallel steel shafts enable the motor housing to slide vertically up and down. As a result, the cutter can plunge into the timber. All routers are supplied with a fence. This means that the machine registers against the workpiece to ensure a straight cut.

Choosing A Router

How Many?

The constant removal of a large, powerful router from the underside of a table is an unenviable task. For convenience, leave the router permanently installed so that it’s ready for instant use when the need arises.

Routers

That said, these very large, heavy machines are unwieldy beasts. They can become awkward and somewhat dangerous for hand-held use. Therefore, it’s very desirable to have an additional smaller, or mid sized machine to use at the workbench.

Router

Router Cutters

There is a vast range of router cutters available to suit all applications from machining a simple rebate to the most complex joint profile. Smaller sizes usually have a shank diameter of ¼“ with larger cutters having a diameter of ½”. When using a small cutter the speed of rotation should be high with the very largest diameter bits running at a maximum speed of 12000 rpm. This ensures that the peripheral speed of the cutting edge remains approximately the same. The same will apply regardless of whether a large or small cutter is used.

Router Cutters

Router Capabilities

The capabilities of the router are immense and are further increased by the use of jigs, for example to cut hinges, staircase treads and slots or mortises as well as a whole host of other applications. Use a router in a dovetail jig and almost instantly the user will be able to make a wide variety of different corner joints. By inverting a router and using it in a table is perhaps the most useful application. Use a large, dedicated machine in a router table to carry out different sorts of machining tasks. Without this, it might be difficult or dangerous to do with just a hand held machine.

Routers

Conclusion

With the caveat of proper use and adherence to correct H&S procedures (which applies to all machinery) the modern router, together with its accessories, is unrivalled in its versatility. In conclusion, it is the most indispensable power tool of any sort tool available to the woodworker.

Discover more…

Take a look at our Knowledge piece - A Selection of the Best Router Table Accessories for an overview on how to select the best router table accessories for your workshop. The setup of your table and the accessories you select are the determining factors on the results that you will derive - read on to find out more. Furthermore, our Nine 1/2" Router Cutters To Grow Your Collection is a great piece if you are looking to expand your woodworking collection. Take a look at our selection of nine ½” router cutters to add to your assortment of quality, useable cutters.