When it comes to working with wood, there is an abundance of interesting tools. However, when dealing with intricate carvings, there is only one tool that helps you achieve your goals. And, this is the fixed base router.
Also referred to as a fixed router this unit is designed to offer you with similar cutting capability as the plunge router only that it offers much more versatility. Much like its name suggests, this router is usually fixed on a router table or bench. This means it doesn’t move or plunge.
What sets this model from the plunge router is that it offers you the most precise cut imaginable. Even better, a beginner finds this model easy to use, as it doesn’t require you to move it.
Equally important, this model is a perfect pick for professional woodworkers looking to make intricate or repeat designs. So much with what a fixed base router is, let’s cut the chase. In this post, we are going to discuss how to use a fixed router. Let’s get started.
Using your Fixed-Base Router
Now that you already know what is a fixed router you may be wondering how you can use it. As mentioned, this is a great pick for novice woodworkers looking to create designs that will impress. Similar to using any cutting wood equipment, safety is always the main concern when using a fixed base router.
More importantly, since it cuts through wood at high speed, it is important to keep protect you from the unguarded spinning blade. With that being said, let us look at the procedure that you need to follow when using a fixed base router.
- Secure Your Work
The first and most crucial step in securing your piece. Obviously, you wouldn’t want to have to chase the piece across your workshop as soon as you start routing. Ensure that the routing material is well clamped in place. Another great alternative is using a mat that has a non-skid surface.
One of the main issues of using a clamp is that it can obstruct the router and you have to reposition it multiple times.
However, with a non-skid mat, you can easily tackle each of the four edges with no interference. Another great tip is to rinse the mat in water. This gets the dust off and restores the grab.
- Protect Yourself
As mentioned, the fixed router has an unguarded cutting bit. Therefore, you should ensure that your ears and eyes are protected from the flying debris and sawdust. Generally, fixed routers are also loud and may cause hearing damage.
For this reason, always ensure that you have ear protective gear. Safety glasses should also ensure that your eyes are fully protected from the flying sawdust.
- Follow the Right Direction
For you to use the router safely you need to ensure that the wood piece moves in the correct direction. For instance, if you are looking to route outside the board edge, move the piece counterclockwise. Moving the piece in the right direction stops climb cutting action which may ruin your design.
On the other hand, when you are routing inside the frame edge, you should progress in the clockwise direction. Additionally, the correct routing for all edges sequence is to begin on end grain, cut the long grain, then the end grand and long grain.
- Begin in the Correct Spot
Additionally, if you are looking to route all the board’s edges, it is important to follow the right cutting sequence. Begin cutting the end grain. You are going to note that when the blade egresses the end grain, the adjoining edge chips slightly. However, once you route that edge, it cleans up the edge smoothly.
- Prevent Tear-Away
In some circumstances, when the bit touches the wood piece, tear out can happen. This may also develop when the bit leaves the wood at the end.
You can easily prevent this by including a scrap wood at the end of the piece you are working on. This ensures that you will start at the end with a scrap piece and end the router motion with the scrap wood.
Crucial Tips When Using a Router
- Always feed your router from left to right.
- Don’t force the router to cut through the wood
- Clean all the debris and dust after finishing your project
Final Verdict
Never start your router without the right protective gear. Next, ensure that the wood is well secure to prevent any mishaps. Additionally, remember that the router blades are very sharp.
Therefore, ensure that nothing of value runs across the routing path. You should also start small. Once you are conversant with the tool you can now start tackling more complex projects. For more researched articles you can visit choose guide.
