Router Table Introduction
This is the content required for an introduction to our router table - reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a tutor! It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)
If you need this introduction, please reach out to the following tutors: Lukas, Martin, Keno, Patrick, Utis, Luzian, Moritz
The handheld router introduction is required as a background for this introduction!
If you received that introduction before 2020-4-15, it still included the router table part and you only need to make sure you now watch both pages for updates. And as always: feel free to ask for a refresher whenever anything is not clear anymore!
When working on a router table, additional care needs to be taken as the router is turned upside down in a fixed position!
General Safety
Using a router table differs significantly from using a handheld router because the cutting tool is mounted upside down in a fixed position while the workpiece is moved by hand.
Always follow these basic safety rules:
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection
- Use a dust extraction system
- Never operate the machine without the installed guards and safety devices
- Ensure the cutter is securely mounted before switching on the machine
- Wait until the cutter has come to a complete stop before making adjustments or removing the workpiece
- Disconnect the machine from the mains before changing cutters or performing maintenance
Feed Direction
Correct feed direction is essential for safe operation.
- Always perform conventional (push) cuts
- Never perform climb cuts, as the cutter may grab the workpiece and eject it violently
- When feeding the workpiece in front of the cutter, always feed from right to left
- When working in special setups, make sure you fully understand the cutter rotation and the correct feed direction before starting
Cutter Diameter and Spindle Speed
Different cutter diameters require different spindle speeds.
The recommended spindle speed table is located on the rear side of the Metabo TF 100 M. Always select the operating speed according to this table and never exceed the maximum permissible speed specified by the cutter manufacturer.
Using excessive spindle speeds with large diameter cutters can result in dangerous operating conditions.
Demonstration
The tutor will show you in detail how to:
- Adjust and lock the height of the router
- Insert the bit into the router
- Tighten the collet (best through the top of the table)
- Select the correct spindle speed
- Adjust the fence for different routing operations
- Turn the router on and off by using the safety switch of the router table
- Use push sticks, push blocks and the sliding table correctly
- Perform edge routing and groove routin
- Clean the machine after use
- How to properly store the fence together with all small parts so stuff does not get lost all the time!
After Use
After finishing your work:
- Switch off the machine and wait until the cutter has stopped completely
- Disconnect the machine from the power supply if changing tooling
- Remove chips and dust from the table
- Return the fence, guards, push blocks, and all accessories to their designated storage locations
- Report any defects or unusual machine behaviour to a workshop supervisor immediately
Remember: If you are unsure about any setup or routing operation, stop and ask a tutor for assistance before continuing. Safe operation is always more important than completing a project quickly.
