The Router-The Creative Power Tool

Written by admin on October 27, 2008 – 10:25 am -

“The Router-The most versatile and safest of all woodworking         Power Tools“.

The Router is a high speed Power Tool, with speed of from 20,000 to 27,000 revolutions per minute, depending on the model.  The most popular sizes for the home workshop woodworker weigh about 6 pounds.  It has a universal 115 volt motor, although other voltage motors are available.  The manufacturers, who had been supplying professional woodworkers with these Power Tools for many years decided (rightly) that only light compact models would satisfy the average person.  The result is a tool that is easy to handle even for the novice in the power tool field.

What does a router do?

The router cuts into and trough wood and many other materials to a desired thichness and depth.  That is a very simple answer to a simple question.  What give the router a special fascination is that it enables the non-professional to turn out work tht once was stictly in the province of the master cabinetmaker.  The most intricate joints, decorative cuts and exacting inlays are possible, with just as much accuracy as simple groves and dadoes for all types of projects.  All these woodworking applications are accomplished with the use of dozens of bits and cutters as well as various attachments for special purposes.

Both the vertical motor unit and the base of the router are threaded, an arrangement which permits the depth of cut to be controlled wo within 1/64th of an inch.  The more the motor housing is turned into the base, the more the bit projects below the base.  A clamp screw quickly locks the motor in place.  The switch that turns the motor on and off is recessed into the housing so that it can not be moved accidentally.  A gauge attached to the side of the base moves against the side of the work to keep the bit at a uniform distance from the edge of the stock.  This gauge is shaped so that it can be used for straight or curved work and rides on adjustable rods.

The chuck of the router intended for home use has a capacity of a 1/4 inch.  Since much of the work done with the router calls for the use of template, or pattern guides, the base has been cut out so that there can be an accurate alignment of the template guide with the motor spindle.

There is virtually no type of wood joint that cannot  be made with the router.  Using the attachments and bits available, all types of wood joints are simple and easily accomplished.  With a little practice you can become a master at wood joints using your router.

Safety is your first priority when using any Woodworking Power Tool.  Although the router is considered one of the safest Power Tools the average woodworker can use, it can produce accidents if not used properly.

Be sure to disconnect the motor unit from the electrical outlet when changing bits or adding attachments.  Never insert anything in the air vents for any reason whatever.  Be sure the bit is inserted at least 1/2 inch into the chuck, then rotate it by hand to be sure it clears the router base before connecting to the power source.  Keep the motor clean, the air holes free from dirt.  As with all cutting tools, be sure the bits and cutters are kept sharp.

Following these tips and using common sense the router and the operator will enjoy many years of satisfying woodworking projects.

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Tags: Router, Woodworking power tools, Woodworking routers
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