Handheld Routers
| ToolInfoBox Routers | |
|---|---|
| |
| Synonyms: | plunge routers, handheld routers; DE: Oberfräsen, Handoberfräsmaschinen |
| Type: | power tool |
| Material: | wood |
| Access Requirements: | handheld router introduction |
| Tutors: | Lukas, Martin |
| Similar (More or Less): | CNC router, router plane; milling table, CNC mill |
A router is basically a powerful motor spinning a sharp metal bit at high speeds. Read the manual before using and be aware of the difference between the regular "push" and the more dangerous "climb" cut!
Safety
Routers are very dangerous tools, make sure you have received the handheld router introduction in person and take time to think about what you are going to do!
Router Bits
Router bits can get quite expensive, but good quality ones can be sharpened when they become dull.
Typical collet (Spannzangen) sizes are 6 and 8 mm.
A simple shared set of 8 mm router bits is available in the wood workshop. As always, report when broken and replace them accordingly.
Copying Rings
Copying rings can be used for template work and are more versatile (although a bit more complicated) than flush trim bits with a ball bearing that takes care of the copying. When working with a copying ring, the template has to be offset from the target shape by a few millimeters: offset = (outer coyping ring diameter - bit diameter)/2 [1]
Future Plans
- router table
- 3D copying jig
- "Pantorouter" guidance jig
Links
- "Router 101" video by "BrainFizz" - 35 minutes packed with valuable information
- video tutorial on feed direction by "StumpyNubs"
Bosch POF 1200 AE
| ToolInfoBox Bosch POF 1200 AE | |
|---|---|
| |
| Location: | chop saw station |
| Access Requirements: | handheld router introduction |
| Tutors: | Lukas, Martin |
| Manual: | Bosch |
We were given a Bosch POF 1200 AE that works very well except that it can't be moved up very far at the moment.
Not many accessories are included, though.
KingCraft KBF-1050E
| ToolInfoBox KingCraft KBF-1050E | |
|---|---|
| |
| Location: | router table |
| Access Requirements: | handheld router introduction |
| Tutors: | Lukas, Martin |
| Manual: | ferm.com |
Martin brought a router which is attached to the router table.
We currently have 6 and 8 mm collets for it (an extra 8 mm one is in the storage room along with replacement carbon brushes).
The depth setting screw is very useful for fine adjustments, but when it is loose and the router is mounted upside down it can fall out because of the vibrations. Therefore, this screw should be used to hold the router in position under the router table instead of the clamping lever on the back. Unfortunately, one of the falls seems to have broken the handle off the screw, both parts are currently in the box with broken equipment on the ladder shelf.
Repairs & Upgrades
Watch out! This tool has been repaired for now, but may suffer another defect in the near future. If anything looks, feels or sounds wrong to you, do not use it and immediately talk to a tutor or manager!
- 2018-11-25 (after approx. 5 uses of the router table; ask Lukas for more details)
- 2019-3-27
- previous hack broken a few days before as reported in issue #105
- locking collar removed, 14 mm wrench added to the router table for locking
Ferm FBF-1050E
| ToolInfoBox Ferm FBF-1050E | |
|---|---|
|
| |
| Location: | wood workshop |
| Access Requirements: | handheld router introduction |
| Manual: | |
This router comes with 6 and 8 mm collets (Spannzangen). A few other accessories, including a parallel fence, can be found in its box.
A set of router bits is available with the router. As always, report when broken and replace them accordingly.
Past repairs:
- broken locking collar removed; faces for 14 mm wrench filed into shaft
Private Tools
Einhell TE-RO 1255 E
| ToolInfoBox Einhell TE-RO 1255 E | |
|---|---|
| |
| Location: | Mitja's CoMaking bench |
| Access Requirements: | ask nicely & handheld router introduction |
| Tutors: | Mitja |
| Manual: | |
Mitja owns an Einhell router that you may be able to use for your projects if you ask him nicely.
