5.3: Routers and Router Tables

5.3 Routers and Router Tables

Few woodworking tools are as versatile as the router.

A router uses a high-speed rotating bit to cut and shape wood.

Routers can be used to:

• shape edges;
• cut profiles;
• trim material;
• follow templates;
• cut grooves; and
• perform many other operations.

The same basic router motor can be used as a hand-held tool or mounted beneath a router table.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this section, you should be able to:

• Identify the basic parts of a router.
• Explain the difference between a hand-held router and router table.
• Explain why feed direction matters.
• Describe why several light cuts are better than one heavy cut.
• Explain basic bit installation and work-holding principles.

Hand-Held Router

Major Parts

A router includes:

Motor — Rotates the bit at high speed.

Collet — Clamps the router bit to the motor shaft.

Bit — Performs the cutting operation.

Base — Supports and guides the router over the workpiece.

Depth Adjustment — Controls how far the bit projects below the base.

Power Switch — Starts and stops the motor.

Routers may have a fixed base or a plunge base.

Figure: Hand-Held Router

Installing a Router Bit

Before changing a bit:

Disconnect the router from power.

Insert the router-bit shank securely into the collet, but do not bottom it out completely.

When possible, insert the bit fully and then pull it back approximately 1/8 inch before tightening the collet.

Make sure:

• the bit is secure;
• the collet is properly tightened; and
• the motor is locked firmly in the base.

Starting the Router

Before switching on the router:

• secure the workpiece;
• place the router base firmly on the work; and
• make sure the bit is not touching the material.

Do not start a hand-held router while holding it unsupported in the air.

Be prepared for the starting torque of the motor.

Feed Direction

Router feed direction is important.

In most normal operations, the cutting action should oppose the movement of the router or workpiece.

This gives the operator greater control and helps prevent the cutter from pulling itself uncontrollably along the work.

For fence-guided operations, the feed direction should also cause the cutter action to press the work toward the fence.

Your instructor will demonstrate the correct direction for each setup.

Diagram showing a router bit rotating against the direction in which the router or workpiece is fed during a controlled routing operation.

Figure: Router Feed Direction

Light Cuts

Do not try to remove a large amount of material in one pass.

Several light cuts are better than one heavy cut.

Light cuts:

• reduce stress on the router;
• improve control;
• reduce burning and tearout;
• produce a better surface; and
• reduce the chance of the bit grabbing the work.

Do not overload the motor or allow its speed to bog down.

Secure the Work

A hand-held router applies considerable force to the workpiece.

Clamp or otherwise secure the work so it cannot move during routing.

Router Table

A router can also be mounted upside down beneath a table.

The bit projects upward through the tabletop while the workpiece moves past it.

This arrangement is called a router table.

Why Use a Router Table?

The router table provides a large, stable reference surface and can make small or narrow parts easier to control.

The table normally includes:

• a fence;
• a throat plate;
• a router lift or height adjustment;
• a power switch; and
• pushsticks or other work-control devices.

Router table labeled with fence, throat plate, router lift, router motor, power switch, height-adjustment wrench, and pushsticks.

Figure: Router Table

Throat Plates

Use the throat plate that leaves the smallest practical opening around the router bit.

A smaller opening provides better support for the workpiece.

Small and Narrow Parts

When routing small or narrow parts, additional control may be required.

Use appropriate:

• pushsticks;
• backer boards;
• fences; and
• other instructor-approved supports.

Do not place your fingers close to the rotating bit.

Router Safety Principles

For normal router use:

• Disconnect power before changing bits.
• Make sure the bit is securely installed.
• Use only bits intended for high-speed routers.
• Secure the workpiece.
• Keep hands and loose clothing away from the bit.
• Use the correct feed direction.
• Use slower speeds when required for larger bits.
• Take several light cuts instead of one heavy cut.
• Do not overload the motor.
• Use appropriate support for small parts.

Check Yourself

1. What does the collet do?
2. Why should a router bit not be bottomed completely in the collet?
3. Why is feed direction important?
4. Why are several light passes better than one heavy pass?
5. What is the main difference between hand-held routing and router-table routing?
6. Why should a small throat-plate opening be used around the router bit?