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Purpose The router table has a table with a rotating tool pointing up through a hole in the table. It is used for cutting and shaping wood in many different ways: Slots Chamfered or filleted edges Cutting complex joinery Moulding Safety Do: Use a fixture or sled wherever possible
Do not: Feed with the rotation of the tool (left to right, when standing in front of the table; see below) Let hands come within 6” of the tool - use push blocks where required
Tool changes
Unplug the router and lower before changing tools.
Insert the collet wrenches against the collet nut. Keep the wrenches close together for ease of use.
Using one hand, squeeze the wrenches together to loosen the collet nut.
Install the tool, using an adapter if required. Ensure tool is fully inserted.
Replace the collet and tool into the router.
Squeeze the wrenches together to tighten the nut.
Operation Check that the correct throat plate is installed (use the smallest possible plate to minimize gaps between tool and table) Select the appropriate speed range: Large tools (above ¾”) = SLOW Small tools (¾” or below) = FAST Ensure the fence is in position and locked. Set the tool height as required.
Emergency stop The router can be turned off by pressing the red off button. Shutdown and Housekeeping All workpieces, tools, and fixtures have been removed Collet adapter is stored on the rack with wrenches and crank handle Push blocks are stored on the peg board Clamps are stored on the wood room rack, wood room peg board, CNC room peg board, or tool room (small clamps only) Exterior has been wiped down with a brush (table, handles) Dust collector hose has been removed and checked for debris/clogs Floor around router table, small band saw has been swept
Tips and tricks:
- To check if the bit is dull, run your fingernail along the edge. If it catches, the bit is sharp. If it slides along smoothly, the bit is dull and should be replaced.
- General rule of thumb: the depth of cut should be half of the diameter of the tool. For example, a 1/4" tool would have a max depth of cut of 1/8". Deeper cuts can be done in multiple passes.